Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. – 1 Peter 3:3-4
Inner Beauty Over Outward Adornment
As we reflect on the topic of makeup and jewelry, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing our inner beauty over outer adornment. The Bible teaches us that true beauty comes from within and is based on the character of our hearts rather than the things we wear. When we focus on developing qualities like kindness, patience, and love, we shine with a radiant beauty that cannot be overshadowed by external appearances. Our worth in God’s eyes is not determined by how we adorn ourselves but by the love and grace we extend to others. It is this inner beauty that draws people to us and shows them the reflection of Christ in our lives.
1 Peter 3:3-4
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. – 1 Peter 3:3-4
Proverbs 31:30
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. – Proverbs 31:30
1 Timothy 2:9-10
In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. – 1 Timothy 2:9-10
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
The Heart of the Matter
When discussing makeup and jewelry, the Bible urges us to pay attention to our hearts. It’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends and beauty standards, but God looks beyond our external appearances. We must ask ourselves what truly matters—our hearts filled with love, compassion, and service to others. Leading with a heart of gratitude, joy, and faith allows our true selves to be seen, ultimately fulfilling the deeper desires of our spirits. As we cultivate this heart-centered approach, the love of God spills into our lives, illuminating our paths and drawing others near.
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. – Proverbs 4:23
1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. – Psalm 139:14
Matthew 15:18
But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. – Matthew 15:18
Luke 6:45
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. – Luke 6:45
Modesty and Beauty
The concept of modesty in relation to makeup and jewelry is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. Modesty reflects humility and recognizes our value is not tied to adornments. We can wear makeup or jewelry while choosing to express ourselves modestly and respectfully. A heart that seeks God will guide us in how to showcase our beauty without drawing attention away from our true purpose—serving others and glorifying God. Fashion may change, but the call to be modest and honorable remains constant, reminding us to showcase the beauty of Christ both inside and outside.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
1 Peter 5:5
In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. – 1 Peter 5:5
Proverbs 11:22
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. – Proverbs 11:22
Titus 2:3-4
Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children. – Titus 2:3-4
1 Timothy 6:6-8
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. – 1 Timothy 6:6-8
Expressing Individuality
Makeup and jewelry can be forms of self-expression and creativity that can uplift our spirits and inspire others. When we dress ourselves, we can reveal our personalities and embrace the beauty of diversity. However, as we express our individuality, we should ensure that our choices honor God. Our creativity can be an avenue to share our stories and love while also highlighting the unique masterpieces God has created in us. There’s a balance to find between self-expression and honoring His values, encouraging us to shine our light while reflecting the love of Christ to the world.
Exodus 28:2
Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron to give him dignity and honor. – Exodus 28:2
Revelation 21:2
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. – Revelation 21:2
Isaiah 61:10
I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. – Isaiah 61:10
Psalm 149:4
For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory. – Psalm 149:4
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. – Colossians 3:23-24
Beauty in Community
The beauty of our relationships can be enhanced by the way we connect with others. No amount of makeup or jewelry can replace the joy of togetherness in Christ. We find beauty in sharing love and laughter, encouraging one another as we seek God. The support and kindness we extend to one another allow our inner beauty to shine brighter. As we link arms with our family, friends, and church community, we uplift each other and showcase the love of God. Let us celebrate our differences while embracing the connections that God has graciously given us.
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Romans 12:10
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. – Romans 12:10
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Seeking God’s Approval
Ultimately, as we navigate our choices around makeup and jewelry, we should aim to please God rather than seeking the approval of others. When we focus on aligning our hearts and actions with God’s Word, our values find strength and clarity. We can confidently express ourselves in ways that honor Him while also enjoying the artistry the world offers. Our beauty is rooted in Creator, who finds us lovely as His handiwork. Let us prioritize cultivating a relationship with God, so we may find direction in our choices around beauty and adornment.
Colossians 3:2
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. – Colossians 3:2
Proverbs 21:2
A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart. – Proverbs 21:2
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalm 119:105
2 Corinthians 5:9
So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. – 2 Corinthians 5:9
Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. – Matthew 6:33
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on what the Bible says regarding makeup and jewelry, we see that our true beauty comes from within. In focusing on our hearts and cultivating our inner character, we cultivate a beauty that reflects God’s love. We learn to balance self-expression with modesty, personal style with godly values, and individual beauty with the beauty found in relationships. The Scriptures teach us that we should pursue what pleases God, resting in the identity He has given us. Ultimately, our journey towards grace and love reveals a beauty that shines beyond makeup or jewelry, illuminating the world around us.
We invite each other to explore the scripture more deeply, whether it is about friendship through friendship or diving into other captivating topics at Bible Repository. Let us embrace this journey together, growing closer to God and each other in our hearts and lives.