Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, which means we should respect and look after it, including eating healthy food and exercising regularly. But I don’t think it matters so much between using glasses or contacts, or whether or not to wear make-up.

Maybe it’s partially a cultural thing. Where I live I can only think of one of my friends who regularly wears make-up every day. Even in my professional work environment, most of the women would only wear a bit of natural lip gloss. I make sure I use a moisturizer with sunscreen every day, because New Zealand has a harsh sun and high melanoma rates.

Many many years ago in my teens I did a modeling course to learn posture and grooming. The first lesson was about skin care, and I was expecting to learn about cosmetic lotions and potions. We were taught the three most important steps for physical beauty were:
– drink 8 glasses of water per day
– Exercise at least 3 times per week
– Maintain a positive attitude.
This was a secular modeling school, with a focus on physical beauty, and at the core of everything they taught us was look after your health, and keep a good attitude. I’ve never forgotten that.

I do know that you need to be well presented in a professional work environment or if you’re speaking publicly. But how people will know I am a “Daughter of the King” is by my attitude and spirit. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)

But I think there is something beautiful about dressing to express who we are, taking joy in the textures and colours and patterns that humans make. The English culture is particularly poor at this – go abroad and there is so much more pride and vibrancy in clothing and jewelry… gives an added richness and self respect.

As for God, I imagine that he loves us to be at our best, and I guess if we are happy in our bodies and joyful in our clothes then that is the best we can be.