Comments on: Beauty and God

By: Anita

Anita — Wed, 09 May 2012 16:22:43 +0000

Yes, you're right, Ang. We can't have a tidy law about this, because as Red says, it's different for each of us according to our economic and other life circumstances. And it's our attitude that makes the difference.
I have a tendency to want to tidy up the spiritual life into tidy maxims, but it can't be done–because it's spiritual–it's God's life in us, so is wild, eccentric and original!!

By: Ang

Ang — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:02:33 +0000

Red's comment resonated with me, in that our attitudes are key. If we wear makeup, dress a certain way, etc. in order to get attention because it makes our pride feel better, then that is quite a different mindset from humbly seeking to honor God with your appearance.

I often hear people use I Corinthians 6:19 as a reason to dress nicely, eat well, etc., because our bodies are a temple for the Lord. As with most things, I believe there is a balance, and the fulcrum is the attitude of our hearts.

By: victoria thorne

victoria thorne — Tue, 08 May 2012 00:38:20 +0000

in complete agreement about the holistic aspect of it all- all aspects are linked, and- as Thich Nhat Hahn so vividly reminds us- this is it

By: victoria thorne

victoria thorne — Tue, 08 May 2012 00:38:08 +0000

in complete agreement about the holistic aspect of it all- all aspects are linked, and- as Thich Nhat Hahn so vividly reminds us- this is it

By: Anita Mathias

Anita Mathias — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:13:47 +0000

Thanks so much, Red and Victoria. I used to believe that God cared about what I was like inside, not outside.
But now that life is slower and quieter, I am trying to break the habit of seeking comfort, pleasure or highs in food–and instead seeking ways to achieve these emotions which can be a blessing to body and spirit.
Also, the discipline it takes to exercise helps the mind and spirit.
I am now beginning to think holistically, that body, mind, spirit and heart are all indivisibly yoked together–and the health of each is important!

By: Red

Red — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:33:15 +0000

Hey Anita
Like the post. But I think there has to be balance. I don't think Jesus would care if we were dressed in rags, but I think he would care if our attitude were in rags. If we were to visit the King of a country we would dress up and put on our best and not just show up in ou gardening clothes for example. and so I think we should do that for our heavenly king too. But likewise many don't have the option to throw out things that are worn or have a rip in the seam and I don't think Jesus would frown upon that if their hearts were for him.
Also whilst I agree in part about Christian ministers looking good aiding them in their ministry I also think it can go too far, there is a certain look of the Stepford Wives about many of the well known Christian women in public ministry!!
Bless you
redx

By: victoria thorne

victoria thorne — Mon, 07 May 2012 16:34:48 +0000

how could he not love us as we are? it would appear that what is most needed is that we exercise love, that we go about in his world doing what he most needs us to do, and loving as he most needs us to love. if we love generously, then what difference are makeup and dress size, glasses and pounds?

perhaps the girls just need to do what they need to do; it's lovely to hear that they have strong opinions and clarity. so much in their lives will change as they grow older- some views will be left behind, others not. they both sound brilliantly clear-eyed.

you are a good mom.