The Bible speaks about modesty, and some passages mention jewelry and adornment. But how should Christians view the use of makeup and accessories today? Are these outward expressions simply cultural, or does the Bible offer deeper insights? Let’s take a look at what Scripture has to say.
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What Does The Bible Say About Jewelry And Makeup
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
This verse reminds us that true beauty is not found in outward adornment such as jewelry or fine clothes, but rather in the inner qualities of a gentle and quiet spirit. God values inner beauty and character more than external appearance.
While it is not inherently wrong to wear jewelry or fine clothes, we should prioritize cultivating a gentle and quiet spirit and allowing our inner beauty to shine through.
1 Timothy 2:9-10
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
This verse encourages women to dress modestly and not to place undue emphasis on elaborate hairstyles, jewelry, or expensive clothes. Instead, we are called to adorn ourselves with good deeds and a lifestyle that reflects our commitment to worshiping God.
While this verse specifically addresses women, the underlying principle of modesty and prioritizing inner qualities applies to both men and women.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
This verse highlights the transient nature of physical beauty and the importance of possessing the fear of the Lord. While charm and beauty may attract temporary admiration, they hold no lasting value. In contrast, a woman who reveres and honors God is worthy of praise.
It is a reminder to prioritize character and spiritual devotion rather than placing excessive focus on external appearance.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’”
God sees beyond outward appearance and looks at the condition of our hearts. This verse teaches us that our physical appearance does not determine our worth or standing before God.
While external beauty may initially capture human attention, it is the state of our hearts and our relationship with God that truly matters.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This verse reminds us that our bodies are not our own but temples of the Holy Spirit. As followers of Christ, we are called to honor God with our bodies.
While this verse does not specifically address the use of jewelry or makeup, it underscores the importance of treating our bodies with respect and using them in ways that glorify God.
1 Peter 3:5-6
“For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.”
This verse references the example of holy women from the past who adorned themselves not with external adornments but with submission to their husbands and obedience to God.
While this passage may not directly address jewelry or makeup, it emphasizes the importance of inner qualities and obedience to God rather than relying on external beauty.
Matthew 5:28
“But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
This verse cautions against indulging in lustful thoughts and desires. While it does not directly address the use of jewelry or makeup, it encourages us to guard our hearts and minds from impure thoughts.
It is a reminder to prioritize purity and holiness rather than seeking attention or validation through external appearance.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
This verse encourages us to shift our focus from earthly things and instead set our minds on heavenly matters. It serves as a reminder that our value and worth come from our relationship with God and not from external adornments or appearances.
While it does not specifically address jewelry or makeup, it invites us to prioritize the eternal over the temporary.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This verse encourages us to focus on storing up treasures in heaven rather than accumulating material possessions on earth. It teaches us that earthly possessions, including jewelry, are temporary and can be lost or destroyed.
While not directly addressing the use of jewelry or makeup, it reminds us to evaluate our priorities and invest in that which has eternal value rather than that which is fleeting.
Proverbs 31:25
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
This verse describes a woman who possesses inner strength and dignity, allowing her to face the future with confidence and joy. It emphasizes the importance of character traits rather than external appearances.
While clothing is mentioned in this verse, the focus is on the woman’s internal qualities and her ability to navigate life with strength and dignity.
Psalm 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse celebrates the fact that God is the creator of our beings and He has intricately designed us. It reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by the hands of God.
While it doesn’t directly touch on the topic of jewelry or makeup, it reinforces the inherent beauty and worthiness of every individual, regardless of external adornment.
Proverbs 11:22
“Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.”
This verse uses metaphorical language to illustrate that a woman’s external beauty loses its value when it is not accompanied by discretion or wisdom.
While it doesn’t specifically address the use of jewelry or makeup, it emphasizes the importance of inner qualities, such as wisdom and discernment, over outward appearance.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This verse encourages believers not to conform to worldly standards but to allow their minds to be transformed by God. As our minds are renewed, we gain clarity and discernment about God’s will for our lives.
While it does not specifically address the use of jewelry or makeup, it prompts us to examine how our adornment aligns with God’s perspective rather than conforming to societal norms.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
This verse lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes qualities such as love, joy, peace, kindness, and self-control. These attributes are far more important than external appearance.
While it does not specifically address the use of jewelry or makeup, it reminds us to prioritize cultivating the fruit of the Spirit in our lives rather than placing excessive emphasis on external adornment.
Psalm 45:11
“Let the king be enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.”
This verse speaks metaphorically about the beauty of the king’s bride. It suggests that true beauty captivates the heart and draws honor from those in authority.
While it doesn’t specifically address jewelry or makeup, it emphasizes the significance of inner beauty and qualities that capture the heart and honor God.
1 Timothy 2:8
“Therefore, I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.”
This verse encourages men to approach God in prayer with holy hands free from anger or quarreling. It emphasizes the importance of inward purity and a right heart attitude.
While it doesn’t directly address jewelry or makeup, it underscores the significance of inner qualities and attitudes in our relationship with God.
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
This verse warns against the dangers of greed and the mistaken belief that life is defined by material abundance.
While it doesn’t specifically address jewelry or makeup, it reminds us to prioritize the condition of our hearts and the pursuit of spiritual treasure over the accumulation of worldly possessions.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
This verse cautions against indulging in activities that may be technically permissible but have the potential to become addictive or detrimental.
While it doesn’t specifically address the use of jewelry or makeup, it encourages us to exercise discernment and self-control in all areas of our lives.
1 Peter 1:15-16
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
This verse urges believers to strive for holiness in all aspects of their lives, aligning their behaviors and choices with God’s character.
While it doesn’t directly address jewelry or makeup, it emphasizes the importance of reflecting God’s holiness in every area of our lives, including our appearance.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
This verse highlights the importance of cultivating a Christlike attitude characterized by kindness, forgiveness, and love.
While it doesn’t directly address jewelry or makeup, it reminds us that our outward appearance should be a reflection of our inward transformation and alignment with Christ’s character.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
This verse reminds us that external charm and beauty are not lasting or trustworthy measures of a person’s worth.
While it doesn’t specifically address jewelry or makeup, it emphasizes the significant value of a woman who fears and reveres the Lord, highlighting the importance of inner qualities over external appearance.
Psalm 45:13-14
“All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her—those brought to be with her.”
This verse speaks metaphorically about the beauty and honor of the princess being led to the king’s presence.
While it doesn’t directly address jewelry or makeup, it suggests that there can be an appropriate place for adornment in the context of honor and celebration.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse encourages believers to approach every aspect of life with the intention of bringing glory to God.
While it doesn’t specifically address jewelry or makeup, it prompts us to evaluate our motives and intentions behind our choices in adornment and ensure that they align with the desire to honor and glorify God.
Proverbs 16:31
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”
This verse acknowledges the beauty and honor associated with the natural aging process.
While it doesn’t directly address jewelry or makeup, it reminds us that age and wisdom are to be cherished, and our focus should be on cultivating righteousness rather than striving for youthful appearance.