Title: HOLINESS IN APPEARANCE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Peter 1:15-16
Supporting Texts: 1 Timothy 2:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 5:16
INTRODUCTION:
Holiness is not only a state of the heart but also a reflection of one’s outward life. Our appearance communicates our values, beliefs, and identity as children of God. As believers, we are called to live and look in a manner that reflects the holiness and glory of God. Holiness in appearance involves dressing, grooming, and presenting ourselves in a way that honours God, edifies others, and aligns with biblical principles.
1. THE CALL TO HOLINESS
a) Holiness is a Command
God commands His children to be holy in every area of life, including appearance (1 Peter 1:15-16).
b) Holiness is a Reflection of God’s Nature
God is holy, and we are called to reflect His holiness in our conduct and appearance (Leviticus 11:45).
c) Holiness Sets Us Apart
Our outward appearance distinguishes us as God's people (2 Corinthians 6:17).
d) Holiness Influences Others
A godly appearance can inspire others to seek God (Matthew 5:16).
e) Biblical Example: The priests in the Old Testament wore garments that symbolised holiness and service to God (Exodus 28:2).
2. PRINCIPLES OF HOLINESS IN APPEARANCE
a) Modesty in Dressing
Our dressing should reflect modesty, decency, and self-control (1 Timothy 2:9-10).
b) Avoiding Worldliness
Believers should avoid appearances that conform to worldly trends that contradict godly values (Romans 12:2).
c) Representing Christ Well
Our appearance should align with our identity as ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20).
d) Simplicity and Humility
Our outward presentation should show humility, not drawing unnecessary attention to ourselves (1 Peter 3:3-4).
e) Biblical Example: Queen Esther prepared herself with dignity and humility before appearing before the king (Esther 2:12-15).
3. WHY HOLINESS IN APPEARANCE MATTERS
a) It Honours God
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and how we present them should glorify God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
b) It Reflects Inner Purity
Outward holiness is evidence of a transformed heart (Matthew 23:26).
c) It Testifies to the World
A holy appearance is a witness to unbelievers of God's work in our lives (1 Thessalonians 5:22).
d) It Encourages Other Believers
A godly appearance strengthens the faith of others in the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:24).
e) Biblical Example: Daniel and his friends demonstrated integrity and holiness even in their appearance, which made them stand out (Daniel 1:8-20).
4. CHALLENGES TO HOLINESS IN APPEARANCE
a) Societal Pressure
The world promotes trends that conflict with godly principles (1 John 2:15-17).
b) Misinterpretation of Grace
Some misuse the message of grace to justify ungodly appearances (Jude 1:4).
c) Lack of Understanding
Many believers fail to understand the connection between outward holiness and inner transformation (Hosea 4:6).
d) Desire for Acceptance
The need for societal validation often leads to compromise in appearance (Galatians 1:10).
e) Biblical Example: Samson lost his anointing when he compromised his Nazarite vow, including his appearance (Judges 16:17).
5. PRACTICAL WAYS TO MAINTAIN HOLINESS IN APPEARANCE
a) Seek Guidance from the Holy Spirit
Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in all aspects of life, including your appearance (John 16:13).
b) Dress to Please God, Not Man
Prioritise God's standards over human opinions (Colossians 3:23).
c) Avoid Extremes
Maintain balance, avoiding excessive adornment or neglect (Philippians 4:5).
d) Surround Yourself with Godly Examples
Learn from believers who reflect holiness in their appearance (Hebrews 13:7).
e) Biblical Example: Ruth followed Naomi’s counsel and presented herself modestly and appropriately, leading to her divine connection with Boaz (Ruth 3:3-5).
CONCLUSION:
Holiness in appearance is an outward expression of a life transformed by God. It is a way to honour God, reflect His nature, and positively influence others. As believers, our appearance should always point people to Christ and testify of our commitment to Him. Let your life and appearance glorify God in all things.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to reflect Your holiness in my appearance, in Jesus' name.
2. Father, grant me the grace to resist worldly pressures, in Jesus' name.
3. Holy Spirit, teach me to dress and present myself in a way that honours You, in Jesus' name.
4. Lord, let my appearance inspire others to seek and glorify You, in Jesus' name.
5. Father, remove every spirit of compromise from my life, in Jesus' name.
6. Lord, purify my heart so that my outward life reflects Your holiness, in Jesus' name.
7. Father, help me to avoid extremes and maintain balance in my appearance, in Jesus' name.
8. Holy Spirit, guide me to make choices that glorify God in all areas of life, in Jesus' name.
9. Lord, deliver me from the desire to seek validation from the world, in Jesus' name.
10. Father, help me to be a godly example to others in both my character and appearance, in Jesus' name.
