Have you ever noticed that it is impossible not to stare at a flock of peacocks? They are so exquisite. They strut in a manner that begs your attention. Their tail feathers are draped behind like a long veil of rainbow-colored lace. The beauty and iridescent colors of their fanned feathers are mesmerizing and feel magical. This was my experience years ago at a Florida resort. I was staring out a window, watching the quiet swaying of palm trees, tropical flowers, and a flock of spectacular peacocks. I had this sweet feeling of contentment and peace. Suddenly, this tranquil moment was shattered by the most horrible sound. I looked around for the source and realized it was the peacocks. If you have never heard a peacock, you cannot be prepared for their dreadful screech. How can something so beautiful produce such an ugly sound?
Hearing the grating shriek of the peacocks reminded me that outward loveliness can be deceptive. No amount of beauty could make up for the awful sound of those birds. Perhaps you have met someone who, like the peacock, is so appealing on the outside: perfect hair, smile, body, etc.—a real head turner. Maybe you felt intimidated by their outer beauty. Then they opened their mouths, and they didn’t seem so lovely. Their unkind words or behavior just did not match your first impression. When I heard the peacocks, after being so dazzled with their physical beauty, I was immediately reminded of Proverbs 16:24 and 31:30. God reminded me that charm can be deceitful and beauty vain. It is easy to be captivated by outer beauty. It is human nature to look first at outer presentation. But God makes it clear, this is not His way. He looks at the heart. He is always concerned with the condition of our hearts. His word tells us that women who have reference for the Lord are the true beauties because their words are sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
That Florida afternoon, my prayer became, “Please, Lord, let my words bring healing and peace. I never want to be like a peacock—outwardly appealing but shattering the peace with my words.” I wish I could tell you I had succeeded in this prayer, but I cannot. There have been times I have failed badly. In my book, Wisdom: Capturing the Power of our Words, I share one of my most humiliating failures and how God used the experience to bring transformation and inner healing in my life, healing I was unaware I needed. As the Lord began the healing process, I was surprised by the lightness of spirit I felt, a reminder that the yoke of Jesus is light when we give our burdens to Him.
Blessings,
Personal Parable Practices
- Are you spending more time on your outer presentation than the inward condition of your heart?
- Have you asked the Lord to reveal times when you have ignored someone due to their outer condition?
- What steps will you take today to encourage and to build up those around you who others may not notice?
Prayer
Today, Lord, forgive for all the times I have cared more about my outer presentation than the condition of my heart. Forgive me when I have misjudged another based on physical looks versus their inner person. Thank you for reminding me what is important to the world has no value in your economy. You are a righteous and compassionate God. Teach me your ways. Amen.
Scripture for Meditation
Proverbs 16:24 NASB – Pleasant words are a honeycomb. Sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Proverbs 31:30 NIV – Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
1 Peter 3:3-4 NKJV – Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.
Music for Reflection
