I'm inspired to write this post for two reasons. First, with my daughters in mind, I see a real social issue that I want to avoid. Second, the Holy Spirit seems to be nudging me on this topic, and when the Holy Spirit "speaks"...well, it can be like a constant nagging. But none the less, I feel compelled to write on it...
If there is one thing, in this day and age, that I want my daughters to know it is this:
Your value does not come from how many "likes" you get. Your value does not come from how many "friends" or "followers" you have. Your value does not come from posting scantily-clad pictures of yourself on the internet for all the world to "oogle" at. No, your value comes from the One who created you. The One who knit you together in your mother's womb. The One who knew you before anyone in the world knew you. He created you beautiful in His image.
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| I know it's tempting to take a picture here, but please....don't! |
So, why do I feel the need to share this with you. Because, my friends, we are living in an era when values are down-spiraling like a meteor headed for earth. This "look at me" society we have created has forever changed the way many of us live our lives. And...I know how exhausting, frustrating, disappointing, and damaging it can be to put all our energy into how we look and what others think of us. Personally speaking, it can feel like a rush when we know that all eyes are on us. But it's temporary and then it controls us and we want more. The truth of the matter is that beauty is fleeting and we can only chase it for so long. The Lord knows that eventually it will escape us, yet He will still love us. Can we say that about all the Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram admirers (or whatever else there is out there now to showcase ourselves with)?
It saddens me to scroll through Facebook and see posts that clearly scream, "I need approval". Especially when all God wants us to know is that His approval has far more value in it...eternal value.
You see, I am quite passionate about this. Not just because I am trying to raise our daughters to a "Higher" standard, but also because I know what it's like to be that woman that's way too focused on her outward appearance. Ladies!!!! It doesn't have to be so difficult! We don't have to starve ourselves. We don't have to fret if we don't find the right outfit. (Do you know that it used to be my very first thought if I had any place to go, "WHAT AM I GOING TO WEAR? I HAVE TO BUY A NEW OUTFIT!") We don't have to spend $$$$ on beauty treatments, hair styles, and the latest miracle anti-aging serums. And we certainly don't have to go seeking approval. Like I said, it gets to be exhausting. Not only that, but I believe it disappoints God.
Now, this doesn't mean we're to turn in the opposite direction and start shopping at Walmart in our pajamas! I still believe it is important to exercise regularly, eat healthy, and put an effort into what we wear. But, with that said, we certainly don't have to be obsessed with it!
So how can we be happy without having to parade ourselves or strive to look "perfect". Seek God, seek His wisdom (start with the book of Proverbs), and give it up to Him. Just let go of the pressure! Saying, "Lord, all I want is You" is so freeing! The benefit is a richer, deeper walk with Christ, more authentic relationships, and a whole LOT less disappointment!
