#96of365 #FaithBites #FaithJourney #Fashion

Today’s lesson is about fashion. I know, who am I to talk about Fashion. I’m no Tim Gunn and I’m actually wearing a black belt with khaki pants. (I am normally better than that. Ha). You are probably wondering how in the world does fashion (or lack of fashion sense in my case) relate to faith and God? Surprisingly enough, in two ways: Pride (not hubris) and how we adorn ourselves.

This morning started out like any morning. Making lunches, getting kids up, getting them dressed for school. My lovely daughter, always a fashionista, put together an outfit that is a bit out there. All different kinds of polka dots, colors, fabrics, and styles. My wife was a bit surprised, to say the least about it. My daughter said she liked it and was comfortable in it. I told her if she was comfortable in it, like it, and knew that sometimes kids could say mean things, then I’m ok with it. Heck, she was well covered, warm, and in clean clothes. I call that a win.  She received a few comments at school when I dropped her off, but all in all, I think it was just a fine outfit. (Again, this coming from a guy currently wearing a black belt with khakis. Don’t hate, it was dark).

This made me think about how much we let others control our thoughts, actions, and expressions by what we think they may think of us. My daughter doesn’t care, why should I? It also made me think about faith and what does God say about clothing and fashion. (Yes, I know there are specific rules in the old testament about mixing fabrics and such. I wanted to concentrate on the why).

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” – 1 Peter 3:3-4

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Matthew 6:19-21

Fashion is a $1.2 Trillion global industry with more than $250 Billion spent annually in the US. (The Economic Impact of the Fashion Industry). That’s lots of $11 pairs of Walmart shoes 🙂 ) Why do we spend so much on clothes, jewelry, and adornment? I wonder what the breakdown of what we spend on ourselves because we want to and what we spend because we ought to look a certain way. God is clear that it is spirit and soul that is beautiful and should be seen rather than focusing on the outside. The most beautiful clothes can hide the wicked heart from man but not from God. The rattiest clothing can’t stop a beautiful Godly heart from shinning.

When you next pick out your clothes. Think about why you are wearing what you are wearing. Is it to feel good about yourself or because you worry what others will think?

Are you willing to accept that we need to showcase your beautiful soul instead of beautiful clothes? Are you willing to see past the cover of a person and look at their heart? Are you willing to let the Holy Spirit’s light flow through you?

I am willing (with the help of God)