The Well-Dressed Woman

So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it. Colossians 3:12-14 MSG

Did the image of a woman you know immediately pop into your mind? You know, the one who is always seen in a fashionable or classic, well-fitting and coordinated outfit no matter where you may run into her.

Fashionistas direct us to dress our age, or don’t dress our age, instruct us to whether we are a “spring” or “fall”. They demonstrate how the right outfit can hide those few extra pounds and lead women to believe that certain styles or colours can help us to snag the perfect job, or man. Especially when directed at a budget-conscious woman, styles experts tell us to have that one foundation piece – the simple black dress, or classic tailored suit and change it up with various accessories. This single article of clothing can have us ready for any situation.

The Bible tells us that we have a spiritual wardrobe, hand-picked by God, guaranteed to fit right, suit our complexion and never wrinkle under pressure. This garment is love.

We have been chosen for a life of love and once you slip that on and zip it up, you will feel so beautiful and strong, ready to tackle the day.

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins 1 Peter 4:8 (NLT)

Wearing love covers up imperfections and faults, both ours and those of the people we encounter. When our actions and words speak love, we become more like Jesus so those faults start to disappear – like an outfit that makes you slimmer the longer you wear it (If you have found such an item, please comment below for the rest of us!). We will also be able to overlook the weaknesses and imperfections of others when walking enrobed in love.

Then, as we explore more of the new wardrobe God has provided, we see the accessories! Sparking, extraordinary items to add to this garment of love. Let’s take a peek at them:

So robe yourself with virtues of God, since you have been divinely chosen to be holy. Be merciful as you endeavor to understand others, and be compassionate, showing kindness toward all. Be gentle and humble, unoffendable in your patience with others.  Tolerate the weaknesses of those in the family of faith, forgiving one another in the same way you have been graciously forgiven by Jesus Christ. If you find fault with someone, release this same gift of forgiveness to them.  Colossians 3:12-13 TPT

These are all lovely things to wear as well, but we can’t pull off that stunning outfit without putting on love first.

What is amazing is the outfit never looks dated, ill-fitting, worn or out of style. Love is always in fashion and the more you wear it, the better it looks. It’s great for lounging at home, doing laundry, working at school or the office, going to church, a family gathering or out to Wal-Mart.

In this season, we need to be that well-dressed woman. The most creative designer of all time, God Himself, made this garment of love and all its stunning accessories so we can reflect His love into this often lonely and hurting world. Try it on – I know it’s just your size.

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. Proverbs 31:25 NLT