As you may have noticed, I did not voice my own opinion about the issue of whether or not it is a sin to wear makeup in my previous post. In part, that was because I had not yet fully formed my own conclusions.
Now, since I opened this worm-can in the first place, after having prayed about it, thought through all the arguments, and discussed it thoroughly with my husband, I feel compelled to share my thoughts on the matter.
These are the conclusions I have come to. You are, or course, entitled to disagree with me, and whatever stance you take I respect your decision. The purpose of these blogs is not to create division in the body of Christ, but rather to provoke each reader to examine his or her own heart in light of God’s Word and think through something that perhaps had not previously been an issue of importance.
On this blog, I write about the things that are affecting me. After reading the article and having a discussion about it with Ashley, I felt God calling me to examine my own heart and my motives for wearing makeup, and therefore prompted to blog about it. Based on the amount of traffic and thoughtful responses, I conclude that this topic strikes a chord with many of us.
It has been suggested to me that discussions such as these distract from what is important—Jesus. I respectfully disagree. Anything in God’s Word, and anything that has the power to draw us closer to or distract us from our relationships with Christ, is worthy of discussion.
It has been suggested that those women who have stated their belief that wearing makeup is a sin are engaging in legalism, and that they are losing focus on Christ’s free gift of redemption by getting caught up in “works.” I disagree with this as well. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
This is, of course, true, and it is pivotal to any discussion about salvation. But the story doesn’t end there. Too often, I believe, an emphasis on grace swallows any attempt to grow spiritually. Any suggestion that a particular behavior might be wrong is met with a cry of legalism. Any attempt to live a holy life is scorned with accusations of being “holier-than-thou” and of trying to earn salvation when salvation is free.
A sermon I heard several years ago touched on the concept of setting up “fences.” You put up fences in your life around the areas in which you are weak. For example, if you struggle with alcoholism, you don’t walk past a bar. If you struggle with laziness, you get rid of your TV. And God may call you to put up fences in other areas of your life. This is NOT legalism. Legalism is when you try to impose your fences on someone else.
Many times, if what someone is doing makes us uncomfortable, we brand that person as a legalist and spout off about how their heart is in the wrong place, when we should be examining our own hearts for the source of our discomfort, because that is the nudging of the Holy Spirit in our lives, confronting us about our own sin. We cry that we are under grace, and refuse to accept that there may be things in our lives that need to change.
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid! How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)
If we stop after grace, we are disobeying, and that is as much a sin as the sin of legalism. “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (James 2:17)
All through the New Testament we are commanded to work toward becoming more like Christ, to grow in holiness, and to “run the race before us.” (Hebrews 12)
I won’t quote all the verses I found on this, but I’ll cite some of them for you to look up (and I truly hope you will):
Matthew 5:16
Ephesians 2:10
Philippians 2:12-16; 3:14; 4:9
1 Timothy 6:17-19
James 2:14-26
We are called to be holy (Eph. 1:4; Col.1:22, 3:12; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 3:11) and to become more like Christ. This is accomplished by obeying His commands and responding to His promptings.
That being said, I do not believe the wearing of makeup is, in and of itself, is a sin. However, it may be a sin for you.
Let me explain what I mean by that: In Exodus 20, when God gives the Ten Commandments, the very first commandment is “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Anything, including the wearing of makeup, becomes a sin when we put it before God. If pride, or vanity, or insecurity, or a need to fit in or not be considered weird are your motivations, then those motivations are wrong, and wearing makeup might be sinful for you.
However, that does not mean it is the same for everyone. Each of us comes from a different background, has different experiences, and has a different calling on our lives. And God calls each of us to do different things in service to Him. At the risk of sounding like a post-modern, relativist weasel, I believe there are certain things that may be true for one person that are not true for another.
For example, someone who struggles with alcohol addiction may be called to give up alcohol altogether and never have a drink for the rest of her life. That doesn’t mean that her brother or sister in Christ may never have an alcoholic beverage. Someone who has an addiction to internet pornography may be called to give up his computer completely, while another may just give up the internet, while another may be granted the strength to resist.
Moreover, God deals with the sins people struggle with at a specific time in their lives. A woman who engages in gossip may be challenged to control her tongue, and God may not worry about whether or not she wears makeup because He is more concerned with the harm she is doing to the body of Christ with her malicious words. Also, God calls people to give up different things in order to be more effective for Him. He may ask a woman to give up her desire to be married in order to be more effective on the mission field, or a man to give up a high-paying job in order to serve Him in another area.
For whatever reason, God may be asking you to give up wearing makeup in order to fulfill a specific purpose He has for your life, while He may not call another woman to the same thing. By the same token, God may call a woman to wear makeup for a specific purpose. If she works with teens or in the inner city or in a high-profile professional job, she may not be taken seriously if she doesn’t fit a certain standard of appearance.
For me, my ministries include serving on the worship team at my church, and soon, I hope, public speaking. As I noted in my post about dressing up for church, I believe it is important to look our best in order to give God honor when we meet for corporate worship. If I am singing or playing on stage, wearing no makeup, rather than being a tribute to my holiness, I believe it would make me appear slovenly, as if I didn’t try to look my best or didn’t care about my appearance. The same principle applies if I speak before a group of women who do not have a conviction about the wearing of makeup.
As I began thinking through this issue, I struggled greatly with whether or not God was calling me to give up wearing makeup entirely. I didn’t really want to, yet I had to question whether my reluctance was because of vain or selfish reasons.
After much prayer, thought, and discussing with my husband, I have concluded that such is not the case for me. I wear makeup, and yes, I think it enhances my appearance, but I don’t spend a lot of time on it and I don’t believe it is interfering with my relationship with God.
However, I do see the value in giving up makeup for a period of time. As with any type of fasting, whether you fast from food or soda or chocolate or caffeine (not water or sleep—if you fast from those you’ll have bigger issues), I believe God will show you things through that experience. I highly encourage you, if nothing else, to consider fasting from makeup for a time. Two weeks, a month, or whatever God lays on your heart, and open your heart to how He is speaking to you in this.
If you are struggling with this issue at all, or even balking at the idea that makeup might be a sin, I challenge you to really search your heart and ask yourself why it is a big deal to you. Are you, perhaps, struggling with vanity? Is God calling you to something else?
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23
F, H & S Part Two Continued Again
3 years ago
28 comments:
I read yesterday's post, but didn't comment (for obvious reasons, the first being that the only makeup I've ever worn was eyeblack before a baseball game). But I really like your answer. If it's causing you to stumble, then don't. If it isn't, then enjoy.
Nice.
Well said. Amen and amen. I've been on a make-up fast, just because I haven't had the energy to do the whole "getting ready" process...and it's funny, because I sometimes do feel less confident--and more self-conscious--when make-up-less...but go figure, no one ever treats me any differently either way! I may get more compliments when I'm "made up," so I just have to be careful that I want to "look nice" for the right reasons. The bottom line for me is like you said...search your heart and let God dive right in!! Sometimes it's painful (I'm fighting my own battles these days) but it is so necessary and so good!!
Well said!
Nicely done, Avily!
Very well said, my dear one! Keep on keepin on... life after grace... :)
love you! thanks for putting up with my ramble tambles....
chatty watties! :)
well said, although I think you still need to be careful with word choice. For example, I would never say "drinking in moderation" is a sin. you said, for some people, "wearing makeup is a sin." It's all about semantics. I see your point about how some people struggle with pride, etc. so for those people, it is ONLY the pride, insecurities, etc. that is a sin... not the wearing of makeup. I am probably not making any sense, so we can discuss it later! You see, I think that is where people get into trouble... they think any hint of evil can be sinful-- they avoid anything from movies, to dancing to card games. Think Bob Jones. You wouldn't say it is a sin to watch movies - you wouldn't even say "it is a sin to watch movies only for those who struggle with lust". Again- not the act, but the heart.
I think the main thing to think about is-- everything in moderation- including makeup. It shouldn't be so overdone that it is super noticeable (think TBN)... although it also not a sin to wear too much makeup-- it is a sin to want too much attention. Moderation is pretty much the key to everything in life... from eating to drinking. It isn't a sin to eat, but it is a sin to be a glutton.
anyway, apparantly I must be vain b/c I feel like this is a hot button- no but Charles and I just really are passionate against legalism, and I respectfully disagree that a lot of what people have been saying does sound like legalism.
anyway, still friends and we love ya! :)
Kellie, what you wrote made sense to me. I agree with what you said especially " I respectfully disagree that a lot of what people have been saying does sound like legalism."
By not wearing makeup,hair color,pants,etc..It's not leagalism.
When I wear those things,I am more focused on my self and how the world views me.When I don't wear this stuff,my eyes are more set on Jesus,as it should be.I am not my own I am bought with a price.Jesus paid it all!
....do All to the glory of God.1Cor.10:31
True Freedom!
I agree, those who have chosen not to wear makeup sound like the worst "Christians" I've ever heard speak in my life. They deter people from what is important. They focus on the trivial. They focus on the outward more than the inward, and they simply try to make everyone on God's green earth stop wearing makeup.
I think they are jealous of us because we wear makeup and they "can't" so they try to get everyone else not to so they can feel good about their rules.
Hello????
Why are there so many Christian women who wear makeup and so little that do not?
Avily, you are right to continue wearing makeup and so am I. So are we all, ladies. This is so ridiculous it makes me want to spit.
What is the big deal???
As long as we're living a holy, Christian life it makes no difference whether we have lipstick on or not. Those people need to get a life and stop telling other Christians how to live. They need to remember that makeup isn't vanity, it helps us in our walk with Christ because it makes us think about how beautiful we are, and when I think about how sexy I am... personally, I am turned to Christ because of his creation.
And when other men see my face with makeup, they think I am more beautiful, this causes them to thank God too. Is that wrong? I don't think so.
There is nothing wrong with makeup unless it is vanity, sure, okay. But there is no getting around the idea that makeup is vanity. It just is. AND there is nothing wrong with that, okay?
We need to remember that God created us, but yes, he also wants us to take care of ourselves, look in the mirror, make sure our hair is looking good, make sure our face has makeup if we feel the need.
And especially if a woman's husband asks her to wear makeup, she should obey. She should remember that she is under his headship, even if he is asking her to do something "vain."
Makeup shmakeup. This conversation is overdone. Leave the legalistic, holier-than-thou types to continue on their narrow path of wearing no makeup, causing people around them to stumble and turn from Christ.
And let us with makeup continue on our path of doing good in the world, making people appreciate their beauty instead of turn from it, and bring people to Christ by showing them Christianity isn't about rules, it's about being content and comfortable in Christ... no matter what you're doing.
He saved us by dying on the cross. Wearing makeup, I doubt, is going to change that.
So what's the point in arguing whether to wear or not?
Let's wear it. And be proud of it!
I agree with all of the women on here who have defended makeup... and I think all of the women, especially Ashley & Brooke, who have defended not wearing it are annoying, petty, and obviously out-numbered in this world because they are caught up in dumb things.
Get over it girls... put on some makeup and stop being so weird about little things in life.
Oh and girls, stop covering your heads, it looks ridiculous and it's totally unnecessary.
Oh dear ones... let us remember Jesus in these times. This makeup discussion is overdone.... that's about the only thing I agree with about the above statement.
This has become nothing more than a battle of personal opinion where I seriously doubt how many of us are praying before we leave a comment or send a nasty email to someone.....
Makeup may not be a "big deal," but it's certainly a big enough deal for people to get angry about it and curse other Christian women who have chosen not to wear it for whatever reason.
You know.... through all of this I have seriously questioned my own stance, almost to the point of giving in and painting my face.
But the fact that I am slandered and out-numbered only reaffirms to me that I am following Him and leaving the world behind.... sure, for everyone else that may not be the case, perhaps you are where God wants you to be as you use makeup, but yeah... after this last comment I am encouraged.
And just a little by the way... Brooke is one of the few women I truly, deeply respect in every way. She is wise, honest, caring, humble, gracious, gentle, and willing to obey no matter the costs. She is passionate and loving, she is a sister and friend to those in this world, she isn't swayed by others... and she is following Christ with her whole heart.
I see nothing in that woman to ridicule.
Me on the other hand? I could give you a list of things to ridicule, so pick me instead. :) Leave my dear Brooke alone.
And let us not be like this....
Psalm 64:3
They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows.
Proverbs 12:18
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Ecclesiastes 9:17
The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools.
Ecclesiastes 10:12
Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips.
And be like this:
Proverbs 16:24
Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
1 Thessalonians 2:7
As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children.
Ephesians 4:2
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
I beg your pardon, but where is the love? Where is the gentle, quiet spirit which is to be valued so much more than our outward appearance (which is what we are discussing here)? As people have emailed me defending makeup and making me feel like a piece of trash, they have neglected love and gentleness. So here we are focusing on the outward and NOT having gentleness and love. This is not what God wants from us.
As Christians, even when we disagree and have discussions, we should always pray before we speak/write. And if we feel the need to speak we must do so with gentleness, respect, and love. We must encourage one another. We must look to Him and love through Him. We musn't keep turning to our own opinions and we must be willing to understand BOTH sides of the argument without being annoyed at one side without the willingness to search it deeply.
Pleasant words should drip from our tongue, not poison. Even in true exhortation we must speak kindly and lovingly. If we don't love the person we have no business exhorting them.
Let's be gentle with all, caring for each person in this world as though they are our own child. For mothers, you know this is a big statement.
1 Peter 3:14-16
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Our sweet Father in Heaven,please forgive each and every one of us for arguing over these things.I know Lord that you know my heart and you know each and every other heart that as left messages here,good and bad.
Jesus I pray that you will touch dear Ashley for the life that she is living for you,and myself.I know dear Lord that some think that it is so strict to live this way,but Lord we are happy and content and want to continue to grow.
I ask you Lord to please touch the others that disagree.We are not trying to put them down,we are not all going to agree on everything,for you made us all different.We are called to love one another.Father please help us to show love.Thank you Jesus,I love you.
Love Always,
Your daughter
Ashley, while I don't agree with your make-up position (however, if you are convicted not to wear it then don't), I was shocked by the harshness of the comment posted by the "second anonymous" person. I completely agree that we should be encouraging one another and building each other up, not tearing others down.
What a great and thought provoking post! This was obviously well thought out and covered with prayer. I think you did a fantastic job! As for myself, I usually wear makeup, but have been known to run out without it too, and that causes me no distress whatsoever. Now the fine lines that are starting to appear on my face . . . That's another matter! :-) Blessings, my friend!
First, a request to Avily: If I could, I would like to throw out this idea: Perhaps you might consider not allowing anonymous posters. Up until that post, we had all been civil and respectful in agreeing or disagreeing. And some people (and perhaps I am wrong about this particular person, but…) come into discussions only to start trouble and to provoke fights. I have especially encountered this in Christian chat rooms in the past. (“Look at those ‘Christians’, who are they now? Hypocrits, haha!”) So don’t fall for it ladies!
If you hold strong beliefs about any subject, especially in religion and spirituality, people are going to attack you. It will begin to make you feel bad if you let it. Then we try to clarify our position, to reach out, but we just end up further feeding that fire.
I have not been rude or attacked anyone, but I am being attacked, and so are others. They did the same to Christ; they jeered him, “Come down from the cross and we’ll believe you!”, and this was right after they praised him as Messiah coming into the city! This man did nothing wrong, and yet they punched him, mocked him, spit on him, for no reason. And what was his response? “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
There comes a point when we have to shake the dust off our feet and just let the Holy Spirit deal with it. It’s a lot easier to be pulled down than it is to help someone up.
Each of us is a child of Christ, no matter what our opinion on this topic is or ends up being. If you have been hateful in your heart toward any person here, ask God for forgiveness. If you’ve been gentle and respectful, then ask Him to touch those who have been hateful in order to heal their heart.
There has been some really good discussion on this topic. I was going to comment on the last post, but didn't right away, and then when I read this post, I didn't think I could have said it any better than Avily did.
Thanks to all that have been respectful and courteous, even in your disagreements. I keep coming back to the idea of putting up fences (in your own life) and how that relates to legalism (trying to force your fences on someone else).
It reminds me of the Nazirite vow (see Numbers 6) that Samson took. It is clear that the Nazirite vow was a special thing that someone could do as a special offering of dedication to the Lord. It is admirable to deny oneself certain things as a way of honoring God, and those who make such special vows for whatever length of time should be commended.
As has been repeatedly pointed out, the heart is the most important thing. If one person's motivation is to glorify God by not wearing makeup, then more power to you! Stand firm in your convictions! If another person proclaims their freedom in Christ to wear makeup, then great! Celebrate your freedom in Christ! But neither party should judge their brother/sister in Christ. Review Romans 14, especially v4 ("Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and stand he will, for the Lord is able to make him stand.") and vv12-13 ("So then each one of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this--not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way.") and v19 ("So then let use pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.")
Consequently, I will not respond to the Anonymous poster (April 24, 2009 5:59 AM) because I do not think those words were written in the pursuit of peace or edification. (And also because I don't see any actual counterarguments to Avily's post.)
So Avily, kudos on your insightful and reflective post. Ashley and Brooke, stand firm in your convictions. The rest of you, continue to maintain a clear conscience before God. Everyone, let us prove we truly are Jesus' disciples by showing how much we love one another (John 13:35).
Ashley, thanks for your follow up, but your words are not intelligent nor do your points make sense.
I was simply telling you my opinion, as you have done. Whether you perceive that to be sweet or rude is up to you.
My point is basically to say that you are more self-centered by not wearing makeup than you are by wearing it. Maybe because you are not beautiful without it, you feel the need to put it on and because of your rules you feel you cannot and therefore you do not agree with those who do?
Maybe if you were prettier then you wouldn't have this issue in the first place. But isn't the point to face that we aren't as beautiful as models? I think as long as we realize that that we are okay, we can still strive to be like them, that's not bad.
Why you think that is bad or anyone else, is beyond me and I don't get it.
Like others have said and Avily pointed out in her declaration to continue wearing it (proving that you are wrong) we have freedom in Christ to do as we please and not judge others.
Makeup isn't a big deal.
You and Brooke act like the world should feel sorry for you talking about how Jesus was mocked and all that, but you aren't being mocked for something righteous, you are being mocked for being flat out strange... obviously, because you two and some other anonymous one are the only ones who agree with each other.
Others are right when they say we have freedom in Christ. You need to remember that Jesus came to save, not to pin up and make us feel trapped. The lives you are living are going to make you feel like you are suffocating because they are just legalistc rules that aren't necessary.
If a woman wants to wear a short skirt but she loves God with her whole heart, so be it. Jesus loved prostitutes. If a woman wants to look good to the world by wearing makeup, so be it. Jesus loves them.
And I think he's more happy with the women who wear makeup and seek holiness, rather than the ones who think they are holy by giving up physical things.
If we find our identity in Christ alone we can do whatever we want and it doesn't matter because our identity is found in him alone. We are saved by grace. As long as we are living the life he called us to live, we can do whatever we want in those limits.
For us normal people, makeup is okay. If you think it's rude of me to say this, then fine... I'm sorry you feel that way, I just think you need to open your eyes and stop being naive. And Brooke, I noticed you are Catholic... and RC'ers are heavily bombarded by rules, so I'm not surprised about your stance.
And to the final comment, my comment does have to do with Avily's post. I am in agreeance with her. And I choose to wear makeup for the same reasons. Not because of excuses as others have said, but because I see no reason not to. It's not an issue for me one way or another, therefore what's the use in not wearing it except to make me appear holier than everyone around me?
Makeup makes us look better and there is nothing wrong with looking better than God made us. We don't need to "embrace our flaws" as you said Ashley. God gave us makeup to hide them so that we can be more presentable as Avily said. To be frumpy and ridiculed is not godly. Godliness is taking care of yourself for his sake.
It's one thing to allow God's power to be perfected in your weakness, but to walk around without makeup, "embracing your flaws," doesn't even make sense. We have a right to feel better by concealing our dark circles. If we find value in that, I don't see what the big deal is and why anyone should feel otherwise.
This is just what the world does people. To the last commentor who told Ashley and Brooke to stand firm in their convictions, why would you even say that?
We are to help each other along here, not stand back and watch as people turn into legalistic people turning others from Jesus.
I am trying to be as nice as I can about this. I understand this comes off as harsh, but it's the truth and people like that need to face the truth.
There is nothing wrong with wearing makeup, but there is EVERYTHING wrong with not wearing it for the reasons those two have chosen.
If you don't wear it because you don't like it, one thing. But their reasons are not right and they are very distracting to people like us who see nothing wrong with it.
All I'm saying is stop worrying about it and just wear it. It's not bad to be like everyone else you know? Did you ever think that maybe if the majority is wearing it, that it must be a good thing?
There are VERY VERY few women who do not wear it, and those women have some major issues.
Look to Jesus and learn how to live without self-righteousness.
Dear Anonymous,
I do not know you, so I have done my best to leave tone out of your comments on this post. I have read the 2 comments, an do have much to say in response to them, but I will refrain, because this is not about defending anything or winning anything.
I will say this, the grace that I have seen displayed in the life of my wife by deciding against wearing makeup is quite astounding. What I mean, is that she is far more free without the makeup than with it. Free in the sense, that she is far less self-focussed, and she has been strangely happier and more joyful.
You said you are trying to push "the truth", and a few points have been just that such as we are saved by the Grace of God and other undoubtable truths, but your stance on makeup is practically laughable.
Your idea that "Majority rules" is also a huge fallacy... why is that? The path of the Christian is not a super highway, but it is the narrow way.
Your ideas about Jesus loving prostitutes is true... Mary Magdalen was one such woman. But the great thing to note, is that she didn't remain a prostitute, and I have a hunch (and historical paintings support this notion) that she no longer dressed like one after encountering Christ.
Jesus changes lives and sets our feet upon a new path. This path is one of wisdom, and most often finds itself opposed to the worlds ways. Makeup is a massive money making industry, bent on keeping women running after the impossible false beauty that God did not create. God doesn't want you or any of his daughters chasing after the world and it's standards... but rather, devoting yourselves to purity, modesty, humility and gentleness among other things.
Because so many "Christians" say something is right, doesn't MAKE it right. Matter of fact, that ought to make us take a step back and assess it. If we are tangled up in the love of this world, we are in a dangerous place. John tells us that if we love the world, the love of the Father is NOT in us. This should be a tremendous checkpoint for all of us.
I will say a prayer for you. I was once a rather fashion obsessed man. I spent lots of money on clothing and boots and hair products, but through some major events, God has worked out my care for these things. I am more free because of it. He draws us nearer to Him (who is the Truth) and it does indeed set us free.
Our sin runs deep. Deeper than anything even seen on the surface. Jesus doesn't leave us where we start off, but he trains us (if we allow Him) in righteousness.
I do pray His blessing on your life. That He might be glorified in all you do, say and think. Be a woman who is worthy of praise... seeking holiness... setting yourself apart for the sake of Christ, who showing us the most amazing love and humilty, became flesh and dwelt among us. He did this, to be a servant. There was nothing attractive about Him to the world, and the world hated Him, yet he submitted himself to the will of the Father... even unto death.
Blessed be the Lord God Almighty... who is worthy to receive all praise and honor.
Peace be with you,
-Ashley's husband-
I am not a Christian but I don't wear makeup because of the chemicals used in them. I have noticed a drastic difference since not wearing it. For those of you Christians concerned about taking care of what God has given you, maybe you should consider the fact that makeup is causing much more problems than emotional issues.
Toxic metals can be found in moisturizer, lotion, sun block, sunscreen, mascara, eye shadow, rouge, face powder, lipstick, and theatrical and clown makeup. Health effects may include nausea, cramps, vomiting, skin rash, joint and bone pain, mouth sores, cancer, stillbirths, genetic damage, immune dysfunction, brain and learning disorders, and impulsive and violent behavior.4 These toxins in makeup are numerous and include the following:
Mercury
Bronopol
Formaldehyde
Hexamethylenetetramine
Lanolin
Mineral oil
1-Naphthol and 2-Naphthol
Nitrosamines
p-Hydroxybenzoic Acid Benzyl Ester (PHB Esters)
Petrolatum (petroleum and paraffin jelly)
Propylene Glycol
Quaternium-15
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Talc
Triethanolamine (TEA)
Color Additives
Read here: http://www.townsendletter.com/FebMar2006/envirohealth0206.htm
Women should not choose to not wear makeup just because it's causing division between them and God.
Um, does makeup really do that for anyone??
If anything it brings us closer and assists us in being more confident in who we are. Anyone who doesn't wear it... they are just insecure so they are trying to seek their value in being in a group and fitting in with people who don't wear it. Like a club or something.
Ashley and Brooke are obviously not Christ-centered, they are things centered. Avily is Christ-centered in that she is willing to see both sides but say, "Hey, makeup is cool and I enjoy it, no biggy."
Exactly, Avily.
It's no biggy and I seriously doubt it causes anyone to have a division with God. And if it does, cleanse the heart, not the makeup, that's where the real issue is.
George, thanks for your comment, but I still think your wife is out of touch with reality. She's not like any Christian I have ever known and for that reason she shouldn't even be considered a Christian. She is laughable, not me.
I can't find anyone except Brooke and the other who agree with your wife. And perhaps the only reason she feels better having not worn makeup is because she is feeling holy and self-righteous, she feels good because she is better than everyone.
I'm just trying to help here, by siding with the truly holy Christians and saying makeup is not wrong, therefore Ashley, Brooke, and all women like them, should stop making it an issue and get on their knees, repent, and wear a little makeup now and then as to not get caught up in rules and such.
As for the comment about chemicals, I doubt that stuff is true. And I think we are taking care of God's temple, our bodys, by putting on makeup and taking care of our appearance, just as Avily reminded us so eloquently in this post.
To Ashley and Brooke, stop worrying about standing out so much and be like the rest of us who don't draw attention to ourselves because of weirdness, but draw attention to Christ because we don't unnattract people by our strange legalistic things.
Dear Anonymous Sister,
I will forgive your ill typed words at my wife, because forgiveness is a way of life for Christians. We forgive as God forgives, or at least strive to.
I am sorry to hear you speak in such a way, when you know so little about any of those three women, and you are by your own tongue (fingers typing) showing yourself to be lacking in gentleness of spirit. Again, I am trying not to hear a tone, but a tone is more and more coming across.
Now, I just had much more typed to hash this out with you, but I will take the scriptures words, and not continue casting my pear before... well, I won't use scriptures word there, but the point is, the discussion is going nowhere.
Blessings to you and to each person here on this blog. Avily, may God be with you in all you do. May the peace of Christ be yours and every other person who has been a part of this thread.
-g-
To comment, or not to comment. That tis' the question.
*grin*
I, at my heart, L.O.V.E. a good debate, as long as it is done in good Christian love.
And wow, I don't think I've EVER seen so many comments on your blog Avily. I think I might start coming up with some whoppers to get some more readers. Abortion anyone? Ohhhh, I KNOW! I am SO going to blog about whether it is Christian or not to drink alcohol.
*grin*
Okay, sorry, I'll be serious now.
I can't say anything that someone else hasn't already said. I wear makeup when I feel like it, which isn't often. And yes, when I go out on a date with my hubby, I DO wear makeup and it IS for him and not me. If it were up to me the stuff would stay where it is, in the little makeup pouch in my purse. But when I wear it, it's a sign to him that I've really put effort into the evening, and he KNOWS I'm doing it just to look special for him. And the gleam in his eye is all I need to make it worth it. Not that he wouldn't love me without it, but... it comes down to effort. I LOVE it when he combs his hair nice, shaves, dabs on a bit of cologne, and dresses in something other than jeans and a T-shirt. I know he hates it, but he does it to make ME feel good, that I'm worth his time and effort. And visa versa.
Oh, but pleasing your spouse, that's a whole nother topic, LOL.
Anyway, aside from the makeup issue, I just wanted to come and sprinkle a bit of Jesus love around Avily's wonderful blog! You all are precious people in the sight of God, and I pray blessings over your life.
One other thing: I think if nothing more, conversations like this are good because... how many of you sat down with your big ole' Bible and went to reading to prove your point. I LOVE discussions like this, because they spur me onto deep Biblical study, which we should be doing anyway, but how happy Jesus must be that we are all diving deep into his word and seeking his face in ANY issue.
At the end, we just remember that Jesus commands us not to judge each other, but love on each other.
So, blessings everyone, and have a WONDERFUL friday evening!
Hey Gang...Don't feed the Trolls!
And Avily, I'd second the suggestion to block anonymous posters. Either that, or you might try blocking the IP of harassing commenters after a warning or two. I'm sure GNH would gladly take care of it!
Dear friends,
I want to thank each of you who have visited my blog in the past couple of days. I appreciate you taking the time to read and to share your thoughts.
I wrote this blog post as a way to discuss what was on my own heart, because often God uses us to help strengthen each other.
As God had called me to examine my own heart, I thought it would be good to discuss it with my brothers and sisters in Christ.
For the most part, that has been the case. Like Krista, I enjoy a good debate where people are examining their hearts and their Bibles and coming up with solid, grounded defenses for their own positions.
However, I fear that a healthy debate has spun radically out of control and that what should be an encouragement for introspection has become a mud-slinging-fest.
I am saddened that instead of encouraging each other in our individual walks with Christ that we have begun attacking one another. Worse, a self-described non-Christian felt the need to post after having witnessed us degrading one another. What ever happened to John 13:35, "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another"?
Also, I fear some of my words have been taken out of context. Although I have come to the conclusion that my own use of cosmetics is not detracting from my personal walk with Christ, I thought I had made it clear that I not only do not condemn those who have made a different choice, but I commend and admire their decision.
Those who have chosen not to wear makeup have defended their position without judging or condemning those who do or insisting that others follow the same path or suggesting that those of us who choose to wear makeup are sinning. As I said in my post and as my Genius Nerd Hubby reiterated, I commend them for the fences they have put up in their own lives and for the things they have given up in order to follow where they believe God is leading them.
Clearly, this is not an issue that will be solved by one blog. In fact, such was never my intention; I hoped only to generate discussion and cause people to think through the issue for themselves.
This intent has been, in my opinion, thoroughly fulfilled. As we will not come to an agreement, I now ask that we agree to respectfully disagree and let the matter die rather than cause more division amongst ourselves.
Thank you all!
Very well said, I agree with you totally!!! Thank you for sharing :) That was so very helpful, you have no idea!!!
Great post! Wow... I love this that you said:
"Too often, I believe, an emphasis on grace swallows any attempt to grow spiritually. Any suggestion that a particular behavior might be wrong is met with a cry of legalism. Any attempt to live a holy life is scorned with accusations of being “holier-than-thou” and of trying to earn salvation when salvation is free.
A sermon I heard several years ago touched on the concept of setting up “fences.” You put up fences in your life around the areas in which you are weak. For example, if you struggle with alcoholism, you don’t walk past a bar. If you struggle with laziness, you get rid of your TV. And God may call you to put up fences in other areas of your life. This is NOT legalism. Legalism is when you try to impose your fences on someone else."
Can I quote you on that in my "Making Jesus my Pearl" Blog or I can just link to this post.
So expresses something people so often don't seem to understand! I was so confronted with others perception that I was legalistic when God put it on my heart to wear a headcovering.
Thanks for stopping in my homeschooling blog!
All I know is that I am God's light. When people are drawn to me, they are drawn to Christ. I can't say that I don't enjoy that God made me beautiful. I also don't mind drawing attention to that fact. I celebrate in who God made me. It has nothing to do with what I wear, eat, drink, use, refrain from, indulge in or any outward expression. It is simply enjoying my Creator to the fullest and being who HE has called me to be. The rest is left in the dust.
I have STILL been thinking about this post. In addition to what I have written above,, I add this:
Some days, I don't even brush my teeth. I went to WalMart on Saturday. I was feeling puny. I had no makeup. My hair was pulled back. I'm not certain my teeth had been brushed.
The thing is, I still felt as valuable as ever. It just doesn't matter what's on the outside. Usually I have full makeup, name brand top of the line lipgloss, and look like I'm doing a Mary Kay makeover or something. It's immaterial.
God knit us from the INSIDE out in our mother's wombs. God starts with what's inside. What is the point of a polished golden bowl if it holds maggoty food?
What is true beauty? Why is makeup such a viper's nest of debate?
Is it because truly some women feel that beauty is so tarnished that any attempt to enhance their beauty in a way that even hints of the world is wrong? Perhaps it is rejected because it cannot be obtained. But the thing is, we are already beautiful creatures simply by the nature of being female. Makeup just adds to that. Beauty is God-made. Satan certainly did not create beauty.
However, perhaps Satan has perverted our potential beauty to the point where we think makeup has a true impact on beauty. Think about it, he knows what beauty is. I'm sure he knows how beauty can manipulate others or destroy self. So do we live out of fear of what Satan has defined beauty to be and run from trying to be beautiful? A love of beauty is not even just vanity, it is something deeper. We are created in God's image, male AND female. The image that God stamped onto us is something Satan wants to twist. I think this is one way that it has happened, through the definition of beauty and personal holiness revolving around makeup.
Look deeper. Beauty and makeup are mutually exclusive. I don't need makeup to be beautiful and makeup by itself is certainly not beautiful. It is simply a woman that is beautiful. On the other hand, personal holiness is certainly not linked to makeup in any way shape or form. Again, I believe that any twisting or distraction from true holiness draws us away from the heart of the God. Holiness is not what we wear, what we do. Holiness is who we are. That truth would take more room than I have here to expound. God claimed us through Jesus and calls us holy. It's not my job to keep my holiness. I am called holy. I am sealed unto God, makeup and heels or hair pulled back and nude face. My holiness revolves around belonging to Christ. That is my focus. That is my life. That is my heartbeat. I can hold my head high anywhere. I can hold my head high with green hair, acne, scars, earrings, whatever. The beauty that emmenates from me stems from simply the fact that God made me female and he called me his. I am secure in that always. This discussion about makeup is truly a discussion of a deeper issue I think. Who are we? What makes us worthy? What helps me to be closer to God? What does God call beautiful? What draws me to God?
I probably have a lot more to say about this but I shall just stop.
Avily, thanks for the chance to air my thoughts.
Hi I wondered if you could email me pls as I would like to use a couple of your paragraphs in an email to my home-group leaders if this is ok. Your words would sum up what I want to say. When I shared in what I believe, I was accused by one person of being "legalistic" which is not true and if you need to know more then please feel free to email me.
Blessings
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