My mom and I argue a lot about how I get ready to go out—clothes, hair, makeup—that type of thing. I want to look attractive. Is there anything wrong with that?
Yasmina
Dear Yasmina,
Ask your mom if she will discuss finding a middle ground policy which is good for both of you. Sometimes it helps to have a third party like an aunt or an older sister to help keep things moving along in a positive way.
It might be a good idea to read chapter 3 of Ruth. Ruth was a young widow whose mother-in-law gave her some advice on getting a new husband. Of course you’re not looking for a husband yet, but I understand that you want to look nice.
Another thought I have comes from an email I received from a teenage guy. He told me he has feelings of lust toward girls which is not helped by the way girls at his school dress. I am reminded of some verses in 1 Peter 3:3–5: “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 . . . a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
Shiny hair, a warm smile, dressing modestly—these are great ways to be attractive.
Jordan
Do you get upset if someone gossips about you or spreads lies on the web? No one can blame you for being upset. A good reputation is precious. But in the end your reputation doesn’t depend on lies others spread. It depends on how you live. Ruth earned her reputation, and Boaz could say, “All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character” (Ruth 3:11). Concentrate on living a noble life. The reputation that will be ruined is the reputation of the person who gossips and lies about you.
Ruth
Friends.
Ruth was a great example of true friendship and devotion. A friend is someone you like being with and can talk to. It’s someone you can count on.