Sunday, February 13, 2011

In or Out?

A previous post mentioned a poker table discussion which apparently (we're still not sure) dealt with beauty-related items and the Bible.

People wear all sorts of outfits to major poker tournaments -- from the "hoodie" of Phil Laak to the suit-and-tie business wear of Mike Sexton. But of course, outward appearance only gets you so far. How you play determines whether you're a winner or not.

We think the same thing is true, when it comes to the Christian walk. Some denominations and church groups are anti-jewelry or anti-makeup. We'll never forget a man we encountered aboard a rush-hour train, who started preaching: "Jesus Christ didn't have red lips. The apostle Paul didn't have red lips." (Perhaps because they were males?!) But we lean toward Jesus emphasized....

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.... If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? -- Matthew 6:28, 30


It comes down to what's more important in your mind. If it's merely about looking good at a poker table, you might not last long. If it's merely a right appearance at a worship service, Jesus says you're forgetting something:

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. -- Matthew 6:33

The kingdom of God, He means. It's an endeavor which should work from the inside out, beginning with the Spirit of God dwelling in you.

If you want to study deeper into what the Bible says about fashion and beauty issues, check this article we posted several years ago largely for a Church of God audience.

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