For nineteen years, my home church has brought ladies together to hopefully instill a moment of being still, taking a breath before the holiday season begins, getting us in the mood to begin decorating, shopping, and preparing our hearts and minds for Christmas. The Holiday Indulgence is an event that does just that, with the focus on The Reason for the season and raising money for the Lottie Moon Christmas Fund.
Approaching almost two decades, I have had the privilege of being the emcee for the fashion show portion at the Holiday Indulgence. Y’all, I. have. fun! Nestled in between bringing ladies out of their comfort zone to walk (or sometimes shake it) across a stage, in front of often over four to five hundred observers, to showcasing a local store’s Christmas colors through clothing and accessories, of course I have to share some scripture and words of encouragement regarding beauty.
This year’s verse wasn’t one that jumps out at you and screams, “You are beautiful!” But…it is a verse that should remind us to be aware of how we dress, how we present ourselves to others, and how we honor God.
In Romans 14:12 we read, “So each of us will have to explain to God about the things we do.” I chose this scripture reference to prompt our thinking to be that it isn’t about how much we spend on our outfits, or if we are in style, or whatever appearance you may try to “keep up with”. It is about how we present ourselves for God and what we fill our mind, body, and souls with.
When we focus on getting our inward self in line with Jesus, God will take care of our outward self.
People will notice the joy and peace that you manifest, that can only come from a close relationship with Jesus Christ.
I would like to encourage you all to spend time with Jesus. Get in God’s word and dress yourself in His love, forgiveness, grace, peace, and joy. May your inner self overflow with His qualities. When you do, you just may find yourself thinking twice about the clothing you put on.
So…how do you dress, present yourself to others, and honor God?
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
BTW, the Holiday Indulgence raised over $4,000 this year via the silent auction on various theme decorated three foot Christmas trees.
Hillary and Mallory
Me and Billie Jo
Penny and April
Wanda and Michelle
READ and PRAY:
Below are several journal entries regarding what to wear ro how you dress:
Modest is Hottest | Soaking up the Son (at the bottom of this article, there are three more journal entries regarding dressing modestly: “How you dress says a lot”, “Whose design are you wearing?”, and “How do I dress today?”
Wear it well | Soaking up the Son (You are a reflection of God!)
R-E-S-P-E-C-T | Soaking up the Son (Okay, this one starts out as a journal entry talking about young men but ends with a strong message for young girls and ladies.)
Here are ladies checking out the beautifully decorated trees for auction.
This group of high school students did such a fabulous job singing Christmas songs.
