Your adornment must not be merely external with interweaving and elaborate knotting of the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or (being superficially preoccupied with) dressing in expensive clothes;but let it be (the inner beauty of) the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, (one that is calm and self-controlled, not overanxious, but serene and spiritually mature) which is very precious in the sight of God.1 Peter 3:3-4(AMP)
Hello Beautiful people, on this post I’ll be addressing women around the world. For all men out there, this is a thoughtfully penned down post to your daughter, sister, mother, wife, girlfriend, colleague or friend from a heart of love. Being fashionable is absolutely cool but as women who desire the glory of God to be the monument that defines us, we should not only focus on our outward appearance but more on adorning of our inner person.
From the above context of Scripture, there is no commandment for action or requirements for what activities to do, but rather a proper attitude of reverence as a woman. If we keep pursuing to walk in the Spirit as women and cherishing the grace offered at His throne, He is faithful to shape us into Christlike women. God created us in our feminine form and one way we can please Him is through His character being formed in us.
So, what can we glean as women from 1 Peter 3:3-4?
1. Gentleness
The Greek word for “gentle” in this passage means mildness of temperament. This is not to be confused with passivity, but to be understood as a humility of spirit that comes from trust in God’s goodness. A woman of gentleness recognizes that every element of life can be used by the Spirit to grow her in Christ, and so refuses to be hardened by hardships. She responds to others in respect, kindness, and love, knowing Christ has shown her the same grace. Her heart is softened toward others, looking to extend compassion.
2. Quietness
Nearly synonymous with gentleness, this word denotes being “peaceable.” It suggests inner tranquility. When we are serene in God’s salvation, we exhibit gracious behavior. Rather than stirring up strife or calling for attention, the “quiet” woman is secure in God’s love. She serves Him, she pursues her purpose and serves her home without grumbling. Having confidence in the Lord, she reacts to life thoughtfully and with self-control.
Moving past verse 4, more qualities appear in 5 and 6.
“For in this way in former times the holy women, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands and adapting themselves to them; just as Sarah obeyed Abraham (following him and having regard for him as head of their house), calling him lord. And you have become her daughters if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear (that is, being respectful toward your husband but not giving in to intimidation, nor allowing yourself to be led into sin, nor to be harmed).”1 Peter 3:5-6(AMP)
3. Hope
We can have a gentle and quiet heart because we hope in Jesus, knowing He will soon return. Even if others fail, the godly woman knows her God does not. She entrusts herself to Him, takes Him at His Word and His promises are the foundation of her heart and everything connected to her. The hope she emanates through her words and actions, inspires her family and everyone who comes in contact with her.
Following the footsteps of the biblical matriarchs, this hope leads us to respect and submit to the authorities God has placed in our lives whether it be our parents, husband, or spiritual mentors. Through this obedience we take steps closer to what He has promised.
4. Faithfulness
Faithfulness must define our character not daydreams, secret sins, or selfish ambition. These are the easy temptations in our world which offer instant gratification but will bare consequences later on. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, we can be holy women who bring God’s Word to life and His light in any dark situation.
5. Fearlessness
Finally, we can be courageous in the Lord, in all things. The world equates being fearless with being a risk-taker, but the Bible defines greater substance and significance. Because Christ has freed us from sin and shame, we can walk confidently before God the Father. As His redeemed daughters, we can always find refuge in Him without fear of the future, because He is steadfast and is on our side. There’s no fear of failure or misfortune, because we know He can carry us through any trial. He, and He alone is enough.
So, what kind of a woman do you want to be?? You have a choice to choose the kind of woman you desire to become, a godly woman or a worldly woman. Elegant Fashion does not make us godly women, whom we get married to does not make us godly women, the positions we hold in government, politics, leadership roles or in the corporate world ,does not make us a godly women neither the wealth we have make us godly women.
What makes us godly women, is what we can withstand. Ability to stand firm and never lose the solidity of our foundation, come hell in high waters . Fully aware Christ alone we stand and all other grounds are sinking sand. Godly women do not retaliate, they don’t seek revenge ,they don’t get bitter ,they don’t slander nor do they bring other people down. They work with God in becoming the best version of themselves, they intentionally bring out the best in other people and they use their gifts and influence to make the world a better place.I have penned down Carriers of Greatness, where do you want to be? and Confident Queen which are good reads to connect with this particular post.
Choose to be a godly woman and give God room to work with you.
Love Reinabeaty
