In a recent conversation with a dear friend, she expressed her frustration at the attention others receive based on their "cuteness" - both their appearance (clothes) and their popularity, or charm. Part of this frustration is also the wishes of her parents, in asking her to be very cautious and appropriate in her wardrobe - firmly modest, to the point of wearing suitable, but not exactly cute clothing.
Although I'm not struggling with this now, I have in the past - and I'm copying my reply to her in hopes that it may minister to others who are struggling, or to myself should I fall into this trap again:
'... the one thing you said about modesty and being envious of others' "cute" clothes - I want to commend you for submitting to your parents' wishes in the area. (And yes, it is a struggle of the heart - but your outward obedience [no pun intended :P] is a great first step.) Your obedience is not in vain, my friend. While it may be true that you perhaps do not receive the attention that others do (also remember that sin blinds our perceptions!) - but in the end, do you really want that sort of attention? Look at this verse again:
Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. (Proverbs 31:30)
Look at those words "a woman who fears the LORD." Look at this verse as a promise of God's nearness, or His relationship with you. He is saying, "Charm (i.e. cuteness) is not an accurate picture of someone's worth. Beauty is subjective and temporary - also not a good determiner of someone's weight and standing. These things do not define you - I do. Your relationship with Me is the most important thing about you - and the people I bring into your life will bless you and praise you for reflecting My goodness, for always pouring out My love on them, and for pointing them back to My warm embrace."'
Be encouraged, my friend. God is after your heart.
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