W.I.G.A. – Make-up question
Q. How much make-up is too much?
A. Rather than addressing make-up alone, we’re going to talk about the whole appearance issue. It’s so easy for young women (and adult women) to get caught up in the pressure of an “acceptable image” and feel as if they don’t measure up to society’s standards.
First, we want to tell you what God thinks of you. You have been made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27); and you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). We hope you understand how cool this is! God “fashioned you” long before He created the world. That’s how much God loves you!!!
There is nothing wrong with desiring to be attractive and using make-up and stylish clothing to enhance your God-given features. When it comes to make-up, use it minimally—your natural beauty if far more lovely than a “painted look”. As far as clothing goes, the Bible encourages Christian young ladies to dress themselves in decent and modest clothing. (1 Timothy 2:9-10) Be aware of the effect you may have on guys by wearing clothing that is too revealing. You may consider him “to be just a friend”, but because God made men very visual, he may be embarrassed in your presence. You don’t want to send the wrong message.
I read an article recently about a young woman who started her modeling career in “Seventeen” magazine. She felt fairly empty for years. Now she is married and says, “Today, I am still modeling and acting, but now my identity is found in who I am in Christ and not what other people think of me. God is my first priority and goes into every part of my life. Clothes, makeup and fame never really mattered much. It’s more about others. The more I dwell on myself, the more ugly I get. I know I am beautiful in God’s sight through Jesus. I take what He gives me and I give it away.”
We hope this is helpful.
W.I.G.A. – Too Busy
Q. My first question would be why are you so busy?
A. Is it because this just happens to be a time in your year when many events happen at once and your schedule will eventually slow down? Or, are you busy because you enjoy receiving affirmation for everything you do?
I once read an interesting quote: “If the devil can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy.” Don’t get too busy doing so much that you miss the joy of the moment. Romans 9:32 says this of being too busy: "They were so absorbed with their 'God projects' that they didn't notice God right in front of them, like a huge rock in the middle of the road" (The Message). These people had pure motives but the wrong method. They were so that they didn't have time for God.
It is not necessary to live life going 150 mph. Something or someone usually ends up getting left out! Make sure you’re not “squeezing” God into your schedule. Try starting your day with Him. Ask Him to help prioritize your time and give you his peace and order as you walk through your day. Then at night, take time to thank Him for all He’s done—even the things you may not see!! When God is first in your life, everything else will fall into place.
When under any stress do as Peter stated in 1 Peter 5:6-8: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” You don’t want to be Satan’s meal ticket!!!