“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others. And to all these virtues add love, which is the perfect bond.” (Colossians 3:12-14, New English Translation).
I’ve never been into high fashion. The “neat and clean” look is enough for me. I was running errands one day when a young employee of the business commented, “You’re all matchy today.” Yes, the colors of my skirt and top matched, but I’m still not sure if she was complimenting me or pointing out a fashion flaw. I want to think it was a compliment.
I recently read an article listing the best dressed women of the year, and no, I’m not on it. I looked at the styles each wore, and none of them said “me.” Nothing in my closet resembled a single outfit in those photos. (Nor would I wish it to.)
Clothes Make the Woman
It has been said that clothes make the woman, and I agree—but perhaps not in the way the statement is intended. The right clothes do make a woman, but I’m thinking of the clothing described in Colossians 3:12-14. It’s a multi-piece outfit accessorized with love to create the ultimate look. Any lady who wears this outfit is beautiful. Best of all, it compliments all sizes and shapes.
A well-dressed lady first puts on a heart of mercy. The one wearing this article of clothing shows compassion, often reaching out to those whom others might shun or ignore. Closely related to mercy is kindness, offered to others without anything expected in return. Our lady next adds humility. This is a subdued look—nothing gaudy or flashy, but understated and lovely to behold.
As we continue with our clothing choices, we add gentleness and patience. Their detail blends well with other parts of our outfit such as bearing with each other and forgiving one another. We don’t hold grudges for past wrongs or seek revenge. Our Lord has been patient and forgiving to us, and we in turn must be the same toward others.
The Finishing Touch
The last piece of this outfit pulls everything together in a lovely way. That perfect final touch is love. Without it, the other qualities are impossible to attain. Love weaves it all together so that the beauty of each piece compliments the whole outfit.
Have you ever looked at someone and wondered, “Did they even look in a mirror before leaving the house today?” We may not notice if our clothing is messy or ill-fitting, but others will. If we treat others with impatience, harshness, or even indifference, they will notice. We need to check our reflection to see what is amiss and then make any needed wardrobe corrections.
A Beautiful Reflection
God is asking us to clothe ourselves with characteristics that will display beauty and love to those around us. We will then reflect His amazing love to the world.
Now reach into that closet and put on the lovely garment He designed for you. Be assured, you will be one of the best dressed women in the world.
Prayer: Lord, help me to clothe myself in Your characteristics and reflect Your love to everyone I meet.
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