You look nice! (CASM 35)

When was the last time you told someone sincerely they look nice? Sometimes people give you the strangest facial expressions when you compliment them. If I like your hair, outfit, or you smell nice, I am going to tell you. I don’t want your money, social security number, or your firstborn. I’m genuinely pointing out something amazing about you. I know some people are bullies and have evil intent, but not everyone is out to make fun of you.

Bible view of ourselves

First and foremost, we are made in God’s own image (Genesis 1:27) it doesn’t get any better than that. On top of that, we are fearfully (with respect and care) and wonderfully (uniquely) made Psalm 139:14. The fact that God created you should show you how important and valuable you are to Him. He sees you as forgiven and righteous because of the work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Walk-in His ways and love, it looks nice on you.

Be sincere

I understand why it is hard to sometimes receive compliments from others because some people are phony and not sincere. They whisper or snicker under their breath while pretending to care. Remember, God will play that back to you when you stand before Him, and you will not be laughing. Let’s encourage and uplift people with an honest and genuine heart. A compliment does not only apply to the physical appearance it also applies to someone’s ability. If someone is good at something let them sincerely know. We don’t want to exalt them above the Creator, but it’s okay on occasion to appreciate the creation.

Insecurities

In some cases, we can’t receive someone saying we look nice or we are good at something because of our insecurities. Regardless of how they came about, we must cry out to the Lord and confess them and ask for healing because they are hindering us. We have become paralyzed by them and they dictate our every move. Body image concerns, feeling not smart enough, not fast enough, not talented enough, the list goes on and on. People may have told you those things or you may have tried something and it did not work out the way you thought. You have to choose God’s view of you and speak words of life and victory over yourself or you can continue to wrestle with the devil in the pit. If you choose the latter, by your action you are saying to the world, your God is not able.

We serve the risen Savior who is alive and well sitting on the right hand of God. His mercies are new every morning and He desires for you to call upon Him so He can show you great and mighty things. Our ability is small, but don’t minimize our great God because you are struggling with your insecurities. What is your faith anchored to?

In conclusion

We must be honest and sincere with our words. This goes beyond telling someone they look nice it’s being honest and sincere when sharing the gospel and God’s love. That has to be the priority with all our encounters. Have the right perspective about looking nice. When the world says you look nice, they are looking at the outward appearance. When God says you look nice, He is looking at your heart.

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