Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
Proverbs 31:30 (NLT)
There is an old saying that says, “You can never be too rich or too thin.” With four granddaughters growing up in this culture, the subtle message promoted by this philosophy, shows up everywhere. It would be much easier to teach them a godly view of life if we had some help. Years ago, when I was a young girl, my parents had the reinforcement of the schools, neighbors, family and friends, and the church. Our kids have Facebook, Twitter, TV, movies, and videos. I’m not knocking the digital age, I’m only suggesting that we need to change our tactics.
A healthy self image is vital for young women. In fact, we can suffer from poor self image all of our lives if we don’t address it. Images of photo-shopped “perfect” women scream out at us from every corner. Off-hand comments from our spouse or parents may compound our feelings of inadequacy. But, it is all just a lie of the enemy, Satan, to make us feel inadequate.
The fact of the matter is neither riches nor beauty bring happiness. If we depend on the stock market for our security, then we are all in trouble. It amazes me that a popular graduation present is breast enhancement surgery…and I’m talking high school. And, even though we try to keep in shape and spend much of our time on treadmills and diets, time is not kind.
My oldest granddaughter will enter junior high next year. I’m delighted that she exhibits confidence and excitement about this next step. But it thrills my heart even more when she calls to tell me she wants to recite her memory work to me. I know that the hidden word of God in her heart will be her stabilizer in an uncertain and often unkind world. Her beauty shines bright because she is a King’s kid.