11 May

‘A jewel of gold would be ill placed in the snout of a swine, which is always raking in the mire;‘
– Joseph Benson.

Essentially, with or without an ornament, the pig is a creature covered in mud.

A physically attractive woman who lacks in sound judgement / wisdom / tact / prudence, is, well, essentially a sinner wallowing in the mire of her own folly.

Physical beauty fades.

This fleshly tent – our body – can be damaged and marred. It morphs over time. And no amount of eye candy can compensate for or conceal a bitter and decaying soul. I understand that outward beauty is subjective but I’ve noticed that although a person’s inner beauty can add to their physical attractiveness, one’s physical attractiveness cannot enhance their character. In fact, an ugly soul reduces the appeal of one’s outward comeliness.

(And of course, without Christ, all our souls are fundamentally ugly #slighttangent)

So I guess, today’s lesson/reminder/ thought is: prioritise and spend time refining the condition of your soul, your spirit – which cannot fade and is eternal – for the glory of your Maker, rather than sowing much attention and passion to the appearance of your body – which is temporal – for your own vanity.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for creating each and every one of us with such careful thought and wonderfully unique features and personalities. Thank You for making us all in YOUR image.

A truth that I am unable to fully perceive yet am honoured by.

Help us to take care of our bodies but not be obsessed with grooming it for the attention of human eyes and affection. Help us to always long for and grow in the beauty of Christ – in His love and purity, for Your glory and gladness.

Love You Lord.