Honoring God with Beauty

When we think about beauty, TV and movie stars often come to mind. Skillfully applied makeup can make almost anyone look gorgeous or handsome for the camera, but only God can create natural beauty. This might be a person, a magnificent mountain, a pastel-colored sunrise, a wild rose, or a tiny Ruby-throated hummingbird. So, in a way, we can say God honors us with beauty, but when we acknowledge God the Father as Creator of all things beautiful, we honor Him.

Let’s look at what the Word of God shows us on the subject:

“Give to the LORD the honor due His name. Bring gifts and bow before Him. Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness,” 1 Chronicles 16:29.

Some define holiness as perfection, which is always true of God, but, in humans, holiness shows itself as being pure in heart and being set apart or consecrated by the Lord. When we worship God in the beauty of holiness, we’re wholly committed to Him.

“For God has made everything beautiful in its time. He has set eternity in human hearts,” Ecclesiastes 3:11.

We long for eternity because God put that desire in us, but until our lives join His in heaven, it’s a beautiful thing to be in step with the Lord and His will, trusting in His perfect timing.

“Honor and majesty surround God. Strength and beauty fill His sanctuary,” Psalm 96:6.

Uplifting music, the poetry of prayer, and the silent meditations of people in the pews bring honor to God, strengthening our faith and filling our churches with beauty.

“May the beauty of the Lord be upon us and direct the work of our hands. Yes, Lord, direct the work of our hands,” Psalm 90:17.

The beauty of the Lord – the blessings of God – rest on those who love Him. Let’s pray for the Lord to make us more aware of the beauty He created in us, other people, and the world. And remember: Whatever God has given us to do is beautiful. Our work honors Him as we aim to become more skillful.

Now, it’s your turn! In the Comments section below, give us your thoughts or ways of honoring God with beauty. We appreciate your insights and responses. God bless.