Physical attraction is part of relationships, but the Bible reminds us that true love goes beyond appearance. Scripture encourages believers to focus on inner beauty, character, and godliness in relationships. Let’s explore what the Bible says about physical attraction and how it fits into a godly relationship.
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What Does The Bible Say About Physical Attraction
Song of Solomon 1:2
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine.
This verse expresses the longing for physical touch and intimacy in a romantic relationship. It acknowledges the beauty and pleasure that can be found in physical attraction.
Physical attraction is a natural and God-given aspect of human relationships, particularly romantic ones. However, it is important to remember that physical attraction should never be the sole basis of a relationship, as true love encompasses more than just physical appearance.
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 physical beauty is temporary and ultimately insignificant. It emphasizes the value of character and a heart that is devoted to God.
While physical attraction may catch our attention initially, true beauty lies in a person’s character, integrity, and reverence for the Lord. These qualities are praiseworthy and enduring.
Genesis 29:17
Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel had a lovely figure and was beautiful.
This verse highlights the contrast in physical appearance between Leah and Rachel. It serves as a reminder that beauty comes in different forms and should not be the sole determinant of worth or value.
Physical attraction should not be used as a measure of a person’s worth or value. Our perception of beauty can be subjective, and it is important to recognize and appreciate the unique qualities and strengths that each individual possesses.
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.”
This verse highlights the importance of not being solely focused on physical appearance. God sees beyond the external and looks at the heart and character of a person.
While physical attraction may be a factor in human relationships, it should not be the primary consideration. God values the condition of our hearts and our character, and we should prioritize those qualities as well.
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 teaches us that our bodies are sacred, as they serve as dwellings for the Holy Spirit. It reminds us to honor God with how we treat and present our physical selves.
Physical attraction should be approached with a sense of responsibility and reverence. We should strive to maintain a lifestyle that reflects God’s values, respecting our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 6:25
Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes.
In this verse, we are warned against allowing lust to consume us. It cautions against being captivated solely by physical beauty.
While physical attraction is not inherently wrong, it is important to guard our hearts and thoughts against lustful desires. We should prioritize genuine connection and love over objectifying someone based solely on their physical appearance.
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 encourages us to focus on inner beauty rather than relying on external adornments. It emphasizes the value of cultivating a gentle and humble spirit.
While physical attractiveness can be appealing, lasting beauty comes from within. Cultivating virtues such as kindness, patience, and humility outweigh the temporary appeal of outward appearances.
Song of Solomon 4:7
You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.
This verse celebrates the beauty of an individual, highlighting that they are perceived as flawless and completely beautiful by their beloved.
While physical attraction is subjective, it is powerful when someone sees another person as perfectly beautiful. Genuine love and acceptance can transcend any perceived flaws, reminding us that true beauty is found in being cherished for who we are.
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
This verse expresses gratitude for the unique and wonderful way God has created each person. It affirms that we are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Understanding that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God helps us appreciate our own physical bodies and the bodies of others. It reminds us that physical attraction should be rooted in appreciation for God’s creative design.
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
This verse calls us to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God, acknowledging that our physical selves are meant to honor Him.
Physical attraction should not be pursued at the expense of our commitment to God. Instead, it should be aligned with our desire to honor Him with our bodies and live in accordance with His will.
Proverbs 11:22
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.
This verse highlights the importance of inner qualities and discretion over outward beauty. It warns against the lack of discernment in someone who solely relies on their physical appearance.
Physical attraction should be accompanied by wisdom and discernment. Outer beauty loses its luster if it is not accompanied by inner qualities that reflect godly character.
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 modesty in appearance and emphasizes the significance of inner adornment through good deeds and godly behavior.
While physical attractiveness is not condemned, it is important to prioritize modesty and adornment that reflects our faith in God. Our actions and character should be the true measure of beauty.
Romans 13:14
Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
This verse reminds us to focus on clothing ourselves in Christ, rather than indulging in the desires of the flesh.
Physical attraction should not be centered around gratifying fleshly desires, but rather aligning our desires with God’s will. We should seek to reflect Christ’s nature in our relationships, including our attitudes towards physical attraction.
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 us to live our lives for the glory of God in every aspect, including how we approach physical attraction and relationships.
When it comes to physical attraction, we should strive to approach it with the intention of glorifying God. This means honoring others and treating them with respect and love, rather than objectifying them for selfish purposes.
Proverbs 5:18-19
May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer— may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.
This verse celebrates the physical intimacy and satisfaction that can be found within the context of marriage.
Physical attraction is an important aspect of a healthy marital relationship. It is a gift from God that is meant to be enjoyed within the commitment of marriage, providing mutual satisfaction and strengthening the bond between spouses.
Proverbs 12:4
A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
This verse highlights the significance of a wife’s character and behavior in relation to her husband’s well-being.
Physical attraction is only one aspect of a successful marriage. It is equally important for both partners to possess noble character and demonstrate mutual respect, kindness, and selflessness towards one another.
Proverbs 31:10
A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
This verse praises the value of a wife of noble character, emphasizing that her worth goes beyond material possessions.
While physical attractiveness may initially catch our attention, the true value of a spouse lies in their character. A partner whose character reflects godly virtues and wisdom is a treasure that far surpasses any physical beauty.
Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
This verse instructs husbands to love their wives sacrificially and selflessly, following Christ’s example.
Physical attraction should be coupled with a deep commitment to love and care for one’s spouse in a sacrificial manner. This biblical command emphasizes the importance of both physical and emotional intimacy in a loving marriage.
Proverbs 19:14
Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.
This verse recognizes that a wise and prudent wife is a gift from the Lord, surpassing material possessions in value.
While physical attractiveness may be appealing, the qualities of wisdom, discernment, and prudence in a spouse are of greater importance. It is a blessing from God to find a partner who possesses these qualities.
Ruth 3:11
And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.
Ruth, known for her noble character, is affirmed in this verse. It demonstrates how inner qualities can be recognized and esteemed above physical appearance.
True beauty is not solely based on physical attractiveness but on the inner qualities that reflect godly character. A person of noble character will be recognized and valued for who they are, regardless of their outward appearance.
Proverbs 31:25
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
This verse describes a woman who is clothed with both strength and dignity. It portrays a confident and secure individual.
Physical attraction should be accompanied by qualities such as strength, dignity, and confidence. These inner qualities contribute to a person’s attractiveness and serve as a foundation for a healthy and balanced relationship.
1 Corinthians 6:18
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.
This verse warns against the consequences of sexual immorality and encourages us to flee from it.
Physical attraction is a natural part of human relationships, but it should be expressed within the boundaries of God’s design for sexual purity. True love and respect for one another involve honoring God’s plan for sexuality within the context of marriage.
Proverbs 5:15
Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well.
This verse encourages faithfulness and loyalty within the marital relationship.
While physical attraction can exist outside of marriage, its ultimate fulfillment is found within the commitment and loyalty of a covenantal relationship. Faithfulness to one’s spouse fosters a deep and lasting connection that goes beyond physical attraction.