God's Standard of Beauty

Lately I have been struggling with something I think a lot of women struggle with.  I have been feeling like my appearances are what give me worth and value.  I know this isn't true, but I continuously fall prey to believing the lie that who I am is nothing more than what's on the outside.

A book I have been reading quoted a young woman who said "...That's not God's definition of true beauty and we shouldn't allow it to become ours."  The world uses movies, magazines, advertisements, etc. to make us believe that we need to wear this or that, be thinner, or use this brand of makeup to make us attractive.  It's NOT true! 

1 Peter 3:3-4 is just one of the passages that defines God's standard of beauty: "Do not let your adorning bet external- the braiding of hair and putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear- but let your adorning be with the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."  This verse is posted on my mirror for me to see everyday.  While it is a great reminder, I have come to realize it's not enough.  I need to be constantly meditating on who God is and the love He has for me.  My identity is in Christ.  No beauty product will ever accomplish what He has done and will do in my life and yours.  God's standard of beauty is a gentle and quiet spirit.  My prayer is that He will give me the gentle spirit that He finds so beautiful.