THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/Physical Beauty

A healthy attitude toward physical beauty can mean the difference between happiness and unhappiness.

Why do we appreciate beauty?

In ways that are still a mystery, the human brain perceives beauty.  The Bible does not explain how this happens, but it reveal why we have an aesthetic sense: God endowed us with his attributes.  (Genesis 1:27; Ecclesiastes 3:11)  He created the highly complex human body, giving it amazing form and function. In that regard, an ancient songwriter said:  "I praise you [God] because in an awe-inspiring way I am wonderfully made." -Psalm 139:14.

Today, though, attitudes toward physical beauty are often unbalanced-a trend promoted by the fashion industry and the popular media. According to the book Body Image, a number of studies in Western cultures "suggests that body image is the single most important factor in a person's overall self-image." (note: That is such bull!) Such a narrow focus, however, can mean ignoring something far more important-an individual's heart. -1 Samuel 16:7.  

Hand in hand with the focus on the body is growing overemphasis on sexuality, especially that of women.  "Virtually every media form studied," says a 2007 American Psychological Association (APA) report,  "provides ample evidence of the sexualization of women."  The Bible firmly encourages us to avoid being influenced by such trends-and for good reason! -Colossians 3:5, 6. 

"Do not let your adornment be external . . . , but let it be the secret person of the heart in the incorruptible adornment of the quiet and mild spirit, which is of great value in the eyes of God." -1 Peter 3:3, 4. 

Why is it wise to have a balanced view?

Concerning physical beauty, some say:  "If you've got it flaunt it!" In cultures where such thinking is common, adolescent and even preadolescent girls learn to view  themselves "as objects of other's desires . . . . , to be looked at and evaluated for their appearance," says a report by the APA. That view can be most harmful. In fact, it has become a major social and health concern that, according to the APA, may lead to "a host of negative emotional consequences."  These may include anxiety and even self-disgust . . . , Eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression or depressed mood."

"Remove troublesome things from your heart, and ward off harmful things from your body, for youth and the prime of life are futility." -Ecclesiastes 11:10. 

Next time: THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/Physical Beauty

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