“Those who look to him are radiant, their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34: 5
When I look in the mirror, often times I get disgusted. My hair is having a bad day (again), or a middle aged blemish is looming under the surface, or my makeup is not helping at all that day. I see all the flaws, the wrinkles, the little imperfections seem to be magnified. No radiance there.
But when God sees me, He sees through His eyes of love. He sees His creation that has purpose and beauty. How different I look when I am filled with the Holy Spirit! How radiant I feel when I am doing His will and serving Him: not thinking about myself and how I appear to others, but thinking how can I help them. Then they see Him inside me, glowing like a beacon, drawing them to comfort, to truth and to love. This slightly cracked clay vessel appears as gold.
Those who look to the Lord are not looking at themselves. God’s will guides them and they do not stumble.. They avoid the pitfalls that may lead them to sin. There is no shame, because they are living and acting the way He has called them to live and act. They are in full fellowship because sins are confessed, hearts are cleansed, the Spirit shines through and they are doing His will. There is beauty in their countenance, their humbleness draws others close..
Whenever Moses spoke with the Lord, his face shone. I want to be like that. Maybe I need to pray before I put on my make up – instead of praying it will look good that day. Just kidding, I think? That point is, God’s radiance covers all imperfections because He is perfected in us. Don’t dwell on what you lack when you look in the mirror, rather mirror what He gives through you- and shine!
Father God, you made me and said it was good. Help me to see Your purpose and use for me. Shine so deep within me that others are drawn to know You. There is no condemnation for those who dwell in You. No shame in doing your Will. You turn ashes into beauty and garment our spirit of heaviness with Your praise. Let my light so shine that others may see Your good works and glorify you. Amen
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. …” Matthew 5:16
