Taking Care of Appearance: Why is it Important?

 By Ann Weaver.

 

Credits: Ann.

 

One week in July, I saw a woman wearing a shirt that said "I love me." On a different day, I saw a woman in a drab looking shirt and skirt. On another day, I saw a woman with an extremely tight outfit on that hugged every curvy body part possible.

What comes to mind when you imagine things about these people? Personally, I came to conclusions about every one of these women, almost before a second had passed. None of them were very flattering. For the first woman, I decided that she probably loved herself a lot and might be selfish in the way she declared that she had rights. The second woman could have been a Christian, but could be rather boring or depressed. And the final woman? She probably likes attention, both from guys and girls.

The thoughts that came to my head occurred in a split second. I did not intend to judge them. But in an instant, I saw them, I took in their appearance, and I came to conclusions about each one. 

Though clothing is not a vital matter, it is important. Our reputations are affected by our clothing, because others look at us and unconsciously judge us immediately. 

Not only that, but the outward appearance typically reflects the heart. True, I know disheveled people who are very nice and well-dressed ones that are not. But you would never guess how they were on the inside, just because of how they appear on the outside. I’m not saying it’s right for us to judge in this way. But for a random person on the street, we should be a good witness for Christ without ever seeing their face.

Not only does outward appearance include clothes, but it also includes your manner, your makeup, and the expression on your face. How do you walk? How do you speak? Do you look cheap and flashy? Perfectly tailored? Clean and tidy? Do you look vain, angry, or pleasant? If we have Jesus in our hearts, He will give us joy. And that means we should typically wear a cheerful face. (Proverbs 15:13) Remember, all these aspects register in the unconscious brain and tell others something about you before you say a single word.

Let’s do a test. Just imagine you’re on a street corner and you see the following girls pass by. What are your thoughts about them?

First, a girl with a black crop top and shorts approaches. Her step is jaunty and her face cheerful. In her hand, she holds her phone, and she has a cute bracelet on her arm. She glances at you, gives a quick grin, and lifts the phone to her ear.

Next, a girl with a tight, knee-length dress on approaches. She’s also wearing flats, has a matching shoulder bag, and a lot of makeup. Her expression is neutral. She nods at you and keeps on walking.

In contrast to the previous walker, a girl coming from the opposite direction approaches is wearing no makeup at all. She’s wearing an ankle-length, solid-color dress, wearing a head covering, and does not see you as she walks slowly by.

A girl with ripped jeans and a large sweatshirt crosses the street. She’s staring at her phone and nearly walks straight into you. Glancing up, she mutters a 'sorry’ and keeps on going.

Lastly, a girl with a striped shirt, gray sweatpants, and a ball cap jogs by. She’s not carrying anything, but you can hear some music going in her earbuds. You can’t decipher the words, but it sounds like a rap song. She waves at you and goes on by.

What did you think of each of these girls? Did you take in their clothes, their appearance, their manner, and their greeting? Each factor was a contributor in your opinion of them.

The moment we step outside our doors, people are watching us. Knowing this, how do we want others to see us?  As trendy kids who haven’t grown up yet? As people who look like everyone else? Or as young women following Christ?

Clothing is important. Appearance is important. No, wearing a potato sack is not the end of the world. But we should take care to examine our appearance, for people are constantly looking at and judging one another. This week, let's ask ourselves the following questions: How can I show from my outward appearance that Jesus Christ lives within me? How can I be a witness for the Lord without saying a word? Is my appearance honorable, pure, and lovely? (Philippians 4:8) Let’s care for our personal appearances to shine Christ’s light to the world!

 

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