Smoking Keyboards and Razor-mouthed Christians

Why is it that so many Christians (many whose writings I usually appreciate) seem to think it's cool to ignore 1 Corinthians 13:1 while "proclaiming the truth" (as if love equals weakness). Truth is paramount; however, humility and love must undergird all of our words. And the good of the hearer to the glory of God must be our motive.

Malicious sarcasm, abrasive speech, and arrogant "rightness" have no place in the delivery of the Word of God, and only demonstrate prideful motives.

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal…” (1 Corinthians 13:1)

Regardless of a man’s eloquent speech, or his “right-on” blog posts, if he speaks his words without love, they fall on our ears like a rusty, out-of-tune trumpet. Instead of the music acting as a balm to our weary souls, we are assaulted by a cacophony of clanging. We run from the room with our ears covered not because music is bad, but because of the rusty trumpet that fails to communicate any sort of melody!

Perhaps, more often than not, people don’t “get” what we’re saying because we’ve been more concerned about being right than we have been about getting to the heart of the hearer. Our presentation of any truth should be immersed in the love of Christ.

Each of us must walk worthy of our calling: "With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:2-3, NKJV)

And as we present the truth to others, including our children, we “must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.” (2 Timothy 2:24-26, NKJV)

And for the record, this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t boldly and unashamedly proclaim the truth of God’s Word. It just means that we don’t pridefully use “the truth” to destroy one another. Because if we do, we prove that the truth is not in us.

"But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes." (1 John 2:11, ESV)

This doesn't mean that if I blow it, I am not a Christian. But it does mean that if I continue to walk in a way that communicates a distinct lack of love for my brother, my sinful heart is exposed and I better repent.

And let us all avoid dissensions and quarrels about the law, and commit to firmly communicating the truth - firmly, boldly, graciously, and always, always in love.

"But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned." (Titus 3:9-11, ESV)

And as far as the Internet goes, keep in mind that unbelievers are watching. We will either hallow His name or cause it to be blasphemed among the cyber-heathen.

Remember, a soft answer turns away wrath. And if you can't find a soft answer, perhaps you should walk away. I've had to do that. I can slip into sarcasm very easily (you should see all the "great replies" that dance through my head when someone is being snippy. Thankfully, through conviction and consequence, God is teaching me to guard my tongue...and my keyboard. So, let's pray for each other because...

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;" (1 Corinthians 13:4-6,)

Do Working Women Blaspheme God's Name?

Taken from a talk I gave earlier this year entitled, Christianity:
"The Real Women’s Liberation Movement

Hallowed Be His Name

It is our duty to defend the Word of God and proclaim all that it teaches. If we don’t, we allow His Truth to be ravaged, His people to be deceived, and His name to be mocked. Serious stuff. Therefore, it's important for us to rightly divide the Word, and not add to or take away from its intended meaning.

There are many places where God rebukes His people for allowing His name to be blasphemed among the heathen. One memorable place was in 2 Samuel where David not only committed adultery with Bathsheba, he also murdered her husband to cover his own sin. Remember Nathan saying to David:

"By this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme." (2 Samuel 12:14)

Then in Romans, Paul rebukes the teachers who are marring God’s name with their hypocrisy:

"You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you…." (Romans 2:23-24)

In Ezaekiel, God rebukes the Isrealites for profaning His name with their evil deeds:

Thus says the Lord God: “I do not do this for your sake, O house of Israel, but for My holy name’s sake, which you have profaned among the nations wherever you went." (Ezekiel 36:22)

Since writing Passionate Housewives Desperate for God with my friend, Jennie, I’ve received questions as to what is meant in Titus 2 where Paul talks about God’s Word being blasphemed. They wondered if working women blaspheme God’s name. First, let me say no; from what I’ve studied in the word of God, a woman who works outside of the home does not blaspheme God’s Word by doing so.

Hallowed of Blasphemed?

But let’s look a little closer at what Paul does mean. I simplified the verses here, taking out all the examples, so that it would be little easier to understand, but remember “blaspheme” in this context literally means to slander God’s Word—to communicate something about Him that’s not true. Titus 2:1-8 simplified, says:

"But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine… that the word of God may not be blasphemed… that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." (Taken from Titus 2:1-8)

So who is Paul concerned about here? Who would dare blaspheme God’s name? He’s talking about the “opponent”—in most cases, the Heathen. Paul is describing the way we, as a Church, can cause God’s Word to be blasphemed by onlookers when we falsely represent His holiness by teaching or living a life counter to His Word.

In other words, we should pay close attention to how God says we might do violence to His reputation—and avoid living a life that communicates a false picture of who God is and what He has done in us.

Titus 2 teaches us that we are to “adorn the Doctrine of God our Savior”—we’re to hallow His name by living the Truth, the virtual opposite of blaspheming His Word. So what are some of the ways He teaches we are to do this—to “adorn the Doctrine of God and avoid blaspheming His Word?


Notice I placed “homemaker” in red. That’s because I’d like to point out that out of all the things Paul lays out for old men, young men, older women, and younger women, the biggest controversy today seems to be over the homemaker. Do you think it’s a coincidence that this would be so, as we sit in a culture bathed in feminist theology?

Glance through the above chart and see if there is anything else listed in Titus 2 that is something we should toss. Now, obviously loving a husband isn’t possible if you don’t’ have a husband, and loving your children isn’t possible if you don’t have children. God is sovereign and He certainly isn’t going to require us to walk in a role that He hasn’t provided for us. But look close, is there anything else?

Now, let’s examine this verse one more time: “Speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine [now insert all those things in the chart] that the word of God may not be blasphemed. So these are the things!

Ladies, this is the Word of God! We may be able to debate the definition of a keeper at home, but we really can’t argue about the fact that being a “homemaker” is in fact included in the list of things young women should be taught to practice. And it seems pretty clear that Paul is saying God’s Word is blasphemed in society when the church rejects or ignores the teachings of Titus 2.

Some people have asked, “But, doesn’t that still mean you’re saying that any woman who works outside the home is blaspheming God?

First of all, remember, it’s not the Christian who blasphemes God’s Word; remember Titus 2 lays out how we might cause God’s Word to be blasphemed. There’s a difference. But, still, it’s not that simple. You can’t take a small portion of a general truth and try to turn it into a black and white rule…or doctrine. That just can’t be done. God is sovereign and so many factors are involved in each woman’s life; there’s no way in the world anyone should make such a blanket judgment.

But what we can see from Paul’s instruction here is that when Christians minimize or reject the importance of women nurturing their families and keeping their homes (just like when we reject any other part of Titus 2), we open the door to all sorts of problems that could lead to God being slandered by the heathen.

You see this with latch key kids, burned out moms trying to juggle home and work, husbands not having the support they need, marriages falling apart, and families so disconnected they don’t have a family identity anymore. It’s a progressive cycle that can lead to more and more breakdown in the family.

Again, the problem is the rejection of Titus 2 teachings—any of them. It’s our failure, as a church, to properly adorn the doctrine of God that causes God’s name to be blasphemed.

I believe that it’s because so many men weren’t obeying God and properly honoring women that the feminists were given a voice or had any credibility in the first place. If the heathen were offered a true and living picture of godly womanhood, blessed by godly manhood, what legitimate thing would the feminists have to say? None; their sinful desires would fall right in their own laps and would be much easier to expose. A godly man leading, sacrificing for, and serving his family in humility would indeed shut the mouths of lions.

"Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." (Titus 2:6-8)

And as we women use our gifts, talents, and intellect to glorify God we impart a quiet lesson to a watching world and communicate true contentment in the loveliness of womanhood. As we truly live this out, our testimony will declare “His glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people” (Psalm 96:3) and multiply generations of those who love and glorify God.

May His holy Name be hallowed in us before all the nations.

2010 Ladies Tea Photos...

CLICK HERE for more Ladies Tea Photos

Well, the Tea has come and gone. In a way, planning for a ladies tea is like planning for a wedding reception. The anticipation, the beauty, the special meal, the spiritual encouragement - many similar elements. Over 200 ladies gathered together this past Saturday for fellowship, celebration, encouragement, and spiritual growth.

DVDs will be available soon, which will include each of the talks from our four speakers, as well as sneak peeks of the event itself. In the mean time, feel free to browse our photo album by clicking the above link. Or, simply take a quick look at the few photos I selected here. And don't forget to join us next year! Each year seems to get better and better!

Hard work behind the scenes

Each table was decorated in a unique style or theme by the ladies of Providence Church. Each table hostess also provided beautiful and tasty dainties for dessert!

Chilled strawberry soup anyone?

The Grutzius girls provided beautiful harp, violin, and flute music. Heavenly!

After risking rain, sleet, snow, hail...ok, well, horribly delayed flights and bizarre flooding, Jasmine arrived just in time! Her talk was a huge encouragement to the young ladies, as well as us older gals!

Sandi shared from the heart her amazing testimony of going from high paid executive to full time wife and mother.

Yes, that's a video camera! The DVDs will be available soon!

Plenty of time to visit and get to know other like minded ladies.

Sweet fellowship!

Luscious desserts!

And did I mention the fantastic door prizes? A special thanks to the following generous donors:

Ligonier
Franklin Springs
Providence Church
San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival
Christa Taylor
Fruitful Vine Creations
Oasis Advanced Wellness
Family Reformation Ministries
Highland Study Center

Ladies Tea Update...

Aside from Jasmine Baucham nearly missing the tea due to a series of delayed flights, floods, and miscellaneous road blocks, the tea was a huge success! And thanks to faithful friends, Jasmine made it just in time for her talk! Everyone's hard work really paid off and it was such a blessing to see old friends and meet new ones - especially those I had only "met" online before yesterday!

Oh! And DVDs of the tea and speakers will be available soon! Photos and details to come! Thank you for all your prayers for the tea preparation, for our speakers, and for the hearts of the attendees to be encouraged and refreshed! God was faithful...as always!

The Beauty of Chastity: Heart Matters (Part 3)

Click her to read Part 1 and Part 2

“But it doesn’t matter what I wear!” Sarah scoffed. “God sees my heart!” Sarah finished putting on her lipstick while Hannah tried in vain to reason with her old friend.

“Yes, God sees your heart,” Hannah explained, “but nobody else does—especially boys—they see that.” Hannah swept her hand in front of Sarah’s revealing outfit. “Don’t you see? They’re too distracted by what you’re wearing to notice you.”

“But that’s my point! I don’t care if boys notice me or not.” Hannah smiled coyly. “I just care what God thinks, and He can see my heart.”

We’ve all heard the term “It’s what’s inside that counts.” And there happens to be great truth here; God is most concerned with our hearts. We don’t want to be like the Pharisees and appear outwardly beautiful, holy, or pious, while full of filth on the inside.

Jesus rebuked the hypocrites for this very thing:

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. (Matthew 23:27)

God is able to peer into the depths of our soul and know our thoughts and our motives. In fact, He knows us better than we know ourselves! But, how often do we judge someone by a quick perusal of their appearance? Let's take a look at what happened in 1 Samuel:

The Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

The Lord was telling Samuel who He had chosen to anoint as the next King of Israel. Samuel looked at Eliab, Jesse’s oldest son who was full grown and physically impressive, and figured this was who God wanted. But, God had already chosen David, a youth, the youngest of Jesse’s eight sons.

God saw in David a heart of faith. He was teaching Samuel that men do not see things the way God does. God sees the heart, while man tends to only see things on the surface. It’s part of our human frailty.

Even Paul had trouble with people judging him by his physical appearance. His authority was questioned because while his words were powerful and weighty, his physical appearance was “weak” and his speech was said to be “contemptible.” (2 Cor. 10:7-11)

We tend to make quick judgments of people by their outward appearance. We look at their physical beauty, their clothing, the house they live in, the car they drive, what kind of haircut they have. We are easily swayed by smooth speech and charisma. All these things can distract us from seeking to really know someone. But, God sees what’s on the inside—He sees the heart.

So, if “God looks at the heart,” then what does it matter how we present ourselves to others? Right? If our goal is to please God and not man, then what does it matter how I dress, or if I keep myself clean and presentable? So what if I dress a little revealing? God knows my heart. Right?

Remember, God looks at the heart, but all man can see is what we show him. In fact, I believe that God was warning us, as Believers, that our outward appearance does matter! He said that men do look at the outer appearance—right or wrong, they do. It's a human weakness.

So, although we as Christians shouldn’t judge others based on their appearance, we ourselves have a responsibility to remember that others do have this weakness – and we should desire to communicate good things about Christ by the way we present ourselves.

Besides, despite our best efforts, what is “inside” will eventually show up on the “outside”. (Prov. 4:23; Matt. 12:34; 15:18, 19; Mark 7:21).

"A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil…” (Luke 6:45, NKJV)

So, if your demeanor is sloppy, sensual, careless, or unclean, you need to ask God to show you if there is a problem with your heart. Ask yourself the following questions (you may want to ask a trusted friend or family member for their honest opinion):

• Does your appearance communicate the loveliness of Christ, or are you known as that gal who never seems to brush her hair or bathe?
• Do people you meet ever act surprised when they find out you’re a Christian because of your affection for subculture dress, black leather, or body piercings?
• Does the way you dress and behave communicate chastity, or do others assume you’re trying to look “hot?”
• Look in the mirror. Does your demeanor appear dour or severe or do you see joy and loveliness in your reflection?

It all matters. Every bit of it. And the basis for the whole thing is found in the words of our Lord:

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”" (Matthew 22:37-40, NKJV)

It’s all about loving God and loving our neighbor. And one way I can express my love for Jesus is by honestly representing Him.

My high school choir teacher had a rule: we were never to wear our school uniforms outside of choir events, unless we were prepared to act like perfect ladies and gentlemen. If we were caught in public behaving in an unbecoming way while wearing our uniform, it exposed our school to ridicule and tainted our “good name.”

It also meant an automatic expulsion from choir. We took this charge seriously because we knew that along with the “honor” of being part of the choir we had a responsibility. And we fiercely guarded the reputation of our school.

In a similar way, I must guard my Lord's reputation. I speak dishonestly of the purity of Christ if I dress in a way that contradicts my testimony, or puts into question my chastity. I represent Jesus by the way I behave, dress, speak, and love my neighbor. Remember, the way I present myself in public should point others to Christ, not distract people from Him.

Older women are called to admonish younger women to be “chaste” (among other things). And why? Scripture says it is “so that the word of God may not be blasphemed." (Titus 2:4-5)

We may cause God’s word to be blasphemed among the heathen if we live a life that is counter to what is contained in Titus 2. To blaspheme literally means to slander - to communicate that which is not true. We must live a life that is consistent with the Word, lest, because of our hypocrisy, we give non-Christians the opportunity to slander God.

We can pass out tracts all day long, or build multi-million dollar preaching centers; but when we start living out the purity of the Gospel before the lost, that’s what’s going to get their attention. That’s what’s going to make it all real! Scripture tells us:

The nations shall know that I am the Lord,” says the Lord God, “when I am hallowed in you before their eyes." (Ezekiel 36:23)

Does your life hallow God? Do those around you see and experience a true and honest picture of His goodness, His power, His beauty in your life? Our primary purpose on earth is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. By God’s grace, our lives are to reflect His holiness, His nature, His mercy, His love, His purity, and His beauty.

"Or do you not know… you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, NKJV)

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:1-2, NKJV), emphasis mine

Just as a woman may win her disobedient husband to Christ “without a word” by her submissive spirit and chaste conduct (1 Peter 3:1-2), any woman (or man), “without a word,” may win the lost by living a life that reflects the truth and purity of the Gospel.

True beauty is found in "the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit..." (1 Peter 3:3-4)

Now you know the secret to “incorruptible beauty,” the kind that can't be destroyed by old age, cancer, illness, or injury. This is true, biblical beauty and it is found in a woman who is chaste, modest (1 Tim. 2:9), gentle, meek, and submissive to the authorities in her life—living a life marked by good works (1 Tim.2:10).

You see, Jesus wants you to be beautiful, not to simply look beautiful! May this type of radical beauty define your life and the lives of your daughters—and may it be consistently evident to the lost and dying world around you! Hallowed be His name!

This entire series will be available soon in the form of a down loadable booklet.

Ladies Tea Registration Reopens!

Location Change!

Several days ago, due to an overwhelming response, we were forced to close registration to the Family Reformation 2010 Ladies Tea. Not only did we fill up, but we had a fast growing waiting list.

However, in God’s providence, we were able to secure a new venue - the Snyder Village Ballroom in Metamora, Illinois; so, if you haven't yet registered, now is your chance! This beautiful, open environment allows for more seating and ample space for fellowship.

Snyder Village
1200 E Partridge
Metamora, IL 61548

REGISTER NOW!

For questions, call 309-387-2600

The Beauty of Chastity: What is Biblical Beauty? (Part 2)

If you haven't read Part 1 of The Beauty of Chastity begin HERE

What is biblical beauty?

In Part 1, we discussed what it means to be chaste, and how even married women are called to chastity (Titus 2:5, 1 Peter 3:2). Today, we will discuss biblical beauty (what it means and what it does not mean).

Biblical beauty and how it pertains to chastity is often misunderstood. We seem to see one extreme attitude or the other. While one side appears to obsess over outward beauty, vainly (and often, carelessly) taking pride in this withering flesh (1 Pet. 1:24), the other side sometimes rejects beauty altogether, attempting to avoid sin through fleshly means (and sometimes taking pride in the attempt).

Have you ever heard the term, "Beauty is as beauty does?" It's a good saying, but I have a better one: "Beauty is when the beauty's His." The beauty of the Lord in us is what makes us beautiful.

"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands." (Psalm 90:17, NKJV)

If you are His child, the beauty of the Lord is within you, and it should certainly be evident by the way you treat others and avoid sin; but, it should also be reflected in the way you speak, carry yourself, behave, and, yes, even by the way you dress.

Hillary Hotstuff

Let’s discuss for a moment the two extreme attitudes. The first extreme is demonstrated by Hillary Hotstuff. She dismisses a woman’s duty to dress modestly (which is included in her call to be chaste) by misconstruing the biblical concept of “Christian Liberty.” But, the Bible clearly calls women to:

"Adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety [what is decent and proper] and moderation [self control], 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, NKJV)

While these verses do not condemn braided hair, gold, pearls, or nice clothing, they do make it clear that a godly woman’s modest heart should be reflected in what she chooses to wear, whether it is her jewelry, her hairstyle, her clothing, or the smile on her face.

Paul was not being “legalistic” or trampling the “Christian Liberty” of women. God’s Word is true and unchanging. And as the foolish young man in Proverbs 7 discovered, there is a type of physical beauty that is not beautiful at all (Prov. 7:22-23).

Although immodesty and nakedness are celebrated like never before in our country, it is nothing new to sinful man. John Bunyan (1628-1688) preached against immodesty in his day as well! Consider his words:

“Why are they for going with their…naked shoulders, and paps hanging out like a cow’s bag? Why are they for painting their faces, for stretching out their neck, and for putting of themselves unto all the formalities which proud fancy leads them to?

“Is it because they would honor God? Because they would adorn the gospel? Because they would beautify religion, and make sinners to fall in love with their own salvation? No, no, it is rather to please their lusts…

“I believe also that Satan has drawn more into the sin of uncleanness by the spangling show of fine clothes, than he could possibly have drawn unto it without them. I wonder what it was that of old was called the attire of a harlot: certainly it could not be more bewitching and tempting than are the garments of many professors this day.”

My, wouldn’t John Bunyan be shocked by the “bewitching and tempting” garments of today’s professors?

Notice how “Hillary Hotstuff” justifies her immodesty:

“God doesn’t care how I dress. All He cares about is what’s on the inside. It doesn’t matter if I look like a wild girl because God knows I’m not a wild girl. Besides, I have the “Christian Liberty” to do what I want. I’m just wearing what everyone else wears. If a guy lusts, that’s his problem. God knows my heart.”

But, does Hillary know her own heart? (Jer. 17:9)

Fanny McFrump

While this next extreme may not draw anyone into sexual sin, the false theology and Gnostic tendencies it promotes may be equally as damaging. There is no specific "modest uniform" that is officially “godly.” In fact, you can dress a girl up in a strict “modest uniform” and she may still display an immodest or sensual heart. Have you ever been to a private girl’s school? Modesty truly is a heart issue; and heart issues are not solved by physical means.

Throughout Christendom, our tastes and styles have and will look very different; but, the commonality should be this: What we wear should point others to Jesus, not to ourselves. And the way we dress should speak honestly of the beauty and purity of Christ.

Fanny McFrump exchanges one form of pride for another:

“Beauty equals vanity. To be truly modest (spiritual), I must dress as plain or as frumpy as I possibly can. It proves my dedication to God. People who dress in pretty clothes, or who wear make up, are vain and obviously trying to attract attention. “‘My modesty’ beats ‘your modesty’ any day of the week!”

If we begin to think that there is one particular style of “modesty” that is more holy than others, or if we think we have outdone someone else by how wonderfully "modest" we are, then we are walking in pride, and we are not modest at all.

Ezekiel 16 is a perfect example of God’s allowance for outward adornment, but at the same time a stern warning against the pride that can accompany feminine beauty. It’s also a reminder of who it is that makes us beautiful:

"I clothed you in embroidered cloth and gave you sandals of badger skin; I clothed you with fine linen and covered you with silk. I adorned you with ornaments, put bracelets on your wrists, and a chain on your neck. And I put a jewel in your nose, earrings in your ears, and a beautiful crown on your head.

“Thus you were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen, silk, and embroidered cloth…You were exceedingly beautiful, and succeeded to royalty. Your fame went out among the nations because of your beauty, for it was perfect through My splendor which I had bestowed on you,” says the Lord God." (Ezekiel 16:10-14, NKJV), emphasis mine

Did you notice God said, “Which I had bestowed upon you?” The King James Version says, "Which I had put upon thee." If there were any shame in wearing jewelry or beautiful clothes, God would not have adorned His Bride this way.

"But you trusted in your own beauty, played the harlot because of your fame, and poured out your harlotry on everyone passing by who would have it." (Ezekiel 16:15, NKJV)

There is nothing new under the sun. Throughout the ages, women have failed to trust in the Lord, and have instead “trusted in their own beauty.”

"Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with outstretched necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, making a jingling with their feet…" (Isaiah 3:16, NKJV)

But dressing beautifully isn't the problem—dressing beautifully is sinful only when we become lost in our pride and "forget the Lord." And then it’s not the clothing or the jewelry that’s sinful, it’s our own wicked hearts.

"She decked herself with her earrings and jewelry, and went after her lovers; but Me she forgot,” says the Lord." (Hosea 2:13, NKJV)

The views of both Hillary Hotstuff and Fanny McFrump are in error; and, ironically, neither view is very modest. Both seem to disregard the fact that our outward appearance matters. Biblical beauty (not sensuality) is important, since it reflects the splendor and creativity of God. He could have created the world in drab colors, with a boring, shapeless landscape; but, He didn’t.

God’s creativity and love of beauty is clearly evident in the exquisite masterpiece of all His creation—from the depths of the ocean, to the brilliant stars in the Milky Way. From the amazing microscopic creatures we rarely see, to mankind, whom we can’t help but see. God has created beauty in all of it; and He has chosen to create a world that is far from bland, plain, or predictable.

Join me for Part Three of The Beauty of Chastity where we will examine the term, “It’s what’s inside that counts.” If God sees our hearts, what does it matter what we wear or how we present ourselves to others? Click HERE to read Part 3.

[Please don’t think that anyone you know who in your opinion appears to dress plain or frumpy is doing so out of pride. Likewise, someone who is immodestly dressed may not realize what they’re wearing is inappropriate. I have purposely used two extreme examples to make my point. And judging the motives of individuals is not my point!]