Beauty Defined

Though the media would like us to believe they have the definition of beauty, they do not.  Having beauty is defined as possessing qualities that give great pleasure or satisfaction to see, hear, think about, etc.; delighting the senses. This can not be limited to a few people or things, but rather is as inexhaustible as creation itself!  For beauty has its origin in the mind of an infinite God. 

So what does nature teach us about beauty?  Variety and uniqueness are its hallmarks!  It is the difference between the plains and the rugged mountains or the sea and the arid desert that delight our senses.  What pleasure to sit upon the sand and listen to crashing waves, as they continue on as they have since the beginning of time, their tides marking the days and seasons.  What meditation is brought on by staring into the heavens with their vast constellations.  And who has not felt satisfied at the end of a day as the sunsets in its brilliant hues. 

And what about our desire to people watch?  You know you do it.  We can't help ourselves, as the differences fascinate us.  We are God's masterpiece.  Our very DNA shows that uniqueness is God's design.  It is purposeful and it is beautiful!  Even the afflictions and trials of our life can prove to be the refiners fire that brings forth pure gold. 

As a photographer, I have learned that "perfection" does not always make the best picture.  It is the clouds scattered throughout the sky that cause the most glorious sunsets.  And so with my life, I have seen the trials purify me by seeking to remove my pride and selfishness, revealing the beauty within, which is Christ in me, the hope of glory.

Praise God for His definition of beauty.  We are free to be who He made us to be, in all our uniqueness.  Our glory comes from His many faceted character being displayed in our lives, as we allow Christ to rule in our hearts.