Psalm 17:15As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.
Mirror, mirror on the wall . . .
Okay, I confess. I wear make-up every day. Even when I don't plan on leaving the house. It's become as habitual to my daily routine as showering and dressing.
It begins harmlessly enough. I'm not supposed to expose my skin to the sun without applying sunscreen and wearing a hat. Foundation with sunblock? An answered prayer!
Much better than greasy sunscreen lathered on my face!
But, it doesn't stop there.
Let's top off the foundation with some powder to blot the natural oils on my face. A light eye-shadow to brighten the lids. Mascara to lengthen and strengthen those lashes. A hint of color for the lips.
Now, we're talking!
It's not heavy make-up by any means, but it's make-up just the same.
It perks up the face reflected in the mirror. It smooths the skin tone. Softens every blemish.
Well, not every. I can't conceal my hard-earned life lines, those creases of joy around my eyes. It can't erase the shadows of worry furrows knit into my brow.
It cannot stop the march of age. Just deters it momentarily.
Or, so I perceive . . .
I like who I am, how I love, and the way God is growing me.
Inside.
Somehow, when I take care of my outside, I am reminded of this more intently.
I am more attuned to happenings around me. Less distracted by unwanted intrusions.
More alive in heart and soul and mind.
Primed to give and receive.
As I apply that final pat of powder or linger over a lash, I know these don't change this person looking into the mirror.
God knows this woman behind the facade. Created in His image. Loved beyond measure, make-up or not.
I simply want to enter His presence looking my best.
I don't think He minds if it is what brings me closer to Him. If it reminds me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
That, one glorious day, I will meet Him, face-to-face.
Without make-up. Without needing it. Without wanting it . . .
~
Are there special things you do each day that make you feel better about yourself and draw you closer to God?
Will you pray with me?
Lord, I truly want to come before you as the unique person You created. I know I don't need make-up, a fancy car, or a mansion to be loved by You. When I look into the mirror, may I see reflected there Your unending love for me, just as I am. Amen.
Readings
Psalms 16, 17 or 22
Isaiah 3:8-15
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
Luke 20:41-21:4
Amen, sister! He loves us the way we are. Cosmetic enhancements are fine because He knows your pure heart and love for Him as His child!
ReplyDeleteKeep worshipping in all that you do and think on things eternal and heavenly, and then enjoy the good things He has given you - His Servant - to enjoy while here on earth,in the Name of Jesus, amen.
We must celebrate ourselves, what we are and how we are. Cosmetics enhances the beauty though temporarily.I don't wear make-up but, that doesn't make me want to stop the lines appearing on the face.
ReplyDeletenothing wrong with make-up. make-up and fashion are part of the tool kit with which we express ourselves creatively through our bodies -- just like a painting or a photograph.
ReplyDeleterock on, beautiful martha!
Great post Martha.
ReplyDeleteWhile it's our inner beauty that concerns God, taking time to care for and appreciate the wonderful "shells" He's granted us can bring us closer to Him as well.
Have a Blessed Weekend!
I love the way you write Martha. I cannot do without my kohl. It is my feel good factor. The day I dont I know I am not in the right frame of mind. I am sure you look gorgeous with your make up.
ReplyDeleteI like to wake up - sortof a routine - always a great start to the day. Nice post baby.
ReplyDeleteGreetings to everyone! So glad you all took the time to stop by today.
ReplyDelete@Bernie - Isn't it great that He loves us just as we are? Great advice, Bernie, I'll be sure to keep at that one!
@Janu - I don't think there is much any of us can do to stop those aggravating lines from creeping up on our faces. I don't think of them as wrinkles - they're lifelines! :)
@Linda - I agree that make-up is a personal expression; no two people wear their make-up the same. And, yes, I will rock on! :)
@Phil - Thanks for the compliment. Yes, taking care of my "shell" as you put it does bring me closer to Him.
@Rimly - You are too kind! I don't know about any gorgeous going on here, but it's an improvement.
@Danny - I'm glad you like to wake up and NOT make-up. LOL, honey!
Blessings to everyone and thanks again!!!
Thank God we are loved wrinkles and all :-)
ReplyDeleteBeauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes. It is not something physical.The most important thing I teach my daughter is that you can’t put your value in looks. Presence is based upon magnitude. You can pretend to have an air about you but it is quickly deflated, but you cannot deflate presence. Presence walks into a room and surrounds and fills anything that’s in that room without trying to demand it, it takes it. It can come from a smile. Like I said, love makes you beautiful. What is beautiful radiates.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post Martha..
Make up,? I used to wear it everyday, now not so much. I agree with appearance helping self esteem tho'.
ReplyDeleteHi, Pam, Alpana, and Jan! Thanks for stopping by!
ReplyDelete@Pam - Oh, yes, and amen!!!
@Alpana - Your comment is perfect! Our true value, as we both know, comes from within, and loving yourself as you do others creates the true beauty. And, yes, it does shine to others!
@Jan - Yes, I think the way we care about our appearance, without thinking that's the only thing worthy, tells people a lot about us.
Blessings to you all and thanks again for the sweet comments!
Hello.
ReplyDeleteAs one who loves himself & prides himself on his appearance, I can well relate to this post. Of course I don't wear makeup, although my wife now has me addicted to using day cream with SPF30 & a good night cream after my nightly showers, but I do like to primp myself. I even love my dark circles, grey hair & smile lines...each has a story to tell & they are what make me unique. I know the true beauty of someone lies within the heart, but if wearing makeup all the time makes you feel better about yourself, then I say go for it.
Nice post.
Thanks for sharing & visiting. I appreciate the comments.
Your Reward Is My Sorrow