Endorsements

Michelle and Jenn have tackled a ers’ standards so we’ll feel worthy
subject matter much needed today. and valued, Divine Beauty takes us to
Thank you for being real. Thank the only opinion that matters: God’s.
you for pointing women to the true Focused on Scripture’s definition of
source and giver of beauty. The words what it means to be a daughter of the
on these pages filled my heart with King, this book will become a cher-
joy, inspired me to look at others ished resource for women of all ages.
instead of myself, and challenged me —Mary Bernard, Jesus Calling
to a deeper call to serve. When I was Podcast social media team, writer
little, my grandma said “pretty is as and editor
pretty does” and we learned our kind
actions make us pretty.    If only each of us could truly com-
prehend, believe, and absorb how
—Chrys Howard, radio host and much God loves and adores us—how
author of Rockstar Grandparent, beautiful we are to him—how much
co-author of Strong and Kind with worth we have in his eyes! How would
daughter, Korie Robertson, star of knowing that change every decision
Duck Dynasty we make? We are bombarded with
Jenn and Michelle’s Divine Beauty images and ideas of what it means to
beautifully reflects my deep heart- be worth something in this world: the
cry that women and girls see them- perfect body, an on-trend wardrobe,
selves as God sees them—made in his the right friends, the correct political
image, loved, and valuable. Let these views, on-point social media with as
truths transform and enable you many followers as possible, the list
to step out to become the beautiful goes on because the enemy knows
woman of faith he created you to be! how to keep our focus anywhere but
You’ll be encouraged! on our heavenly Father. He knows
how powerful we are when we are liv-
—Nancy Stafford, actress, speaker,
ing in his love and truth. That is why
and author of Beauty by the Book:
this devotional is so important, espe-
Seeing Yourself as God Sees You
cially for young women. Beginning
Michelle and Jenn have created a the day with what God says about our
much-needed devotional to help worth will change the trajectory of
focus our hearts and minds on the that day, and eventually our life. Pair
truth about our beauty. In a world that with the opportunity to wear his
that demands we keep up with oth- Word on the bracelet for a constant

1
reminder, and we are arming our A valuable tool in today’s world. A girls, often by their parents! The latest This mother-daughter book works
young women with a power that no reminder of a woman’s worth using dream job for girls is to become influ- through the hard lies both young
one can take away! truth and helping each live a beauti- encers, basically known for being and older women face in a society
fully designed life. super cute on the Internet. The thing focused on glamour and popularity
—Terri Conn, Emmy-nominated
actress and QVC TV host —Cindy Montgomery, national that’s missing in their unending quest by exploring biblical beauty. Divine
designer, New York, New York for the perfect hair, skin, and body Beauty and the #Beauty Bracelet™
Divine Beauty provides a great is the fact that true beauty comes provide the tools to find self-esteem
creator and designer of Belle’s
reminder of who we should strive from within. So, the absolute must- based on God’s truth.
custom apartment furniture
to be as Christian women—more have for everyone’s makeup table is
beautiful on the inside than out. The
and couture line for The Farmer —Sam Sorbo, actress, education
and the Belle the new devotional by Michelle Cox advocate, radio host, author of
reflective questions help us to reeval- and Jenn Gotzon Chandler, Divine
uate our self-image through God’s Divine Beauty has richly blessed me They’re YOUR Kids: An Inspirational
Beauty: Becoming Beautiful based on Journey for Self-Doubter to Home
eyes, not through our own, which is a and my daughters as we work through God’s Truth. Divine Beauty is filled
much more accurate perspective! knowing and believing who we are in School Advocate, filmed Let There Be
with daily reminders based on Scrip- Light, SamSorbo.com
God. Through the study of Scripture, ture, telling all of us that if you really
—Lisa Burkhardt Worley, award-
journaling, and practical application want to be beautiful, girl, you’d better If you’re looking to edify your mind
winning author and radio show host
as set forth in Divine Beauty, we are start looking inward—and upward. and body through morning devo-
This is the most important step in embracing the essence of true beauty tions, Divine Beauty is a tool to help
your beauty and self-care process. based on God’s truth and love. —Ann-Marie Murrell, CEO/ you look in the mirror with affection.
Discovering who God made you publisher/author and co-author Knowing Jenn for years, I can say
—Melissa M. Brunner, Esq. of PolitiChicks: A Clarion Call to
to be and where your irresistible she lights up the room the moment
executive producer, The Farmer and Political Activism and What Women
beauty comes from changes every- she walks in. We both work in TV
The Belle (Really) Want
thing. Divine Beauty takes you on a and film, so we are often at the same
journey that illuminates who you are This is a beautiful book that will   Divine Beauty is a must-read gift events. When I mention her name,
from the inside out. The result is true encourage women—young and old— for every girl and woman of faith. I usually follow it up with, she’s the
peace, unspeakable joy, a radiant you, to realize how beautiful they are. God Because the enemy wants us to feel beautiful blonde who radiates good-
and the grace to handle whatever life says love others as you love yourself. less-than and ugly, he hits us in the ness and light. And people know who
brings your way. This is a must-read Jenn and Michelle’s journey to help soft spot of our appearance. If a book I’m talking about! I love her heart,
that is long over-due! you love yourself will inspire and can be LOL funny, deep-down inspir- and I know you will love her too.
encourage you to be all God created ing, and filled with God’s wisdom—
—Fanchon Stinger, TV news anchor —Erin Mae Miller, TV and film
you to be, bringing you to a realiza- all at the same time—Divine Beauty
tion of how magnificent you really producer
is it. Kudos to Michelle Cox and Jenn
are. Gotzon Chandler, both role models Divine Beauty is full of incredible wis-
—Chris Luppo, TV producer with real hearts and impeccable cre- dom, life changing stories, and bibli-
dentials. (Keep this book on the bath- cal truths that will transform the way
We’re living in an age where Botox, room counter right by your mirror!) women of all ages think of beauty.
fillers, and plastic surgery are now Each chapter shines with so much
given as birthday gifts to teenage —Carey Lewis, founder of Actors, inspiration and spiritual affirmations
Models & Talent for Christ

2 3
women will never look at themselves At a time when people can be
in the mirror the same way again! I obsessed with appearances, Michelle
highly recommend Divine Beauty Cox and Jenn Gotzon Chandler use
to be a guide on how you view your real world experiences to show the
self-worth. It also has a special beauty vital truth that real beauty comes
bracelet that was designed around from within. They provide step-by-
this devotional that you will cherish step exercises to help all women

y
forever. appreciate the person God meant

a ut
them to be.

e
—Shannen Fields,
award-winning actress, producer, —Carla Baranauckas,

B
and inspirational speaker former editor for HuffPost,
Gannett and The New York Times
    The master deceiver is continually
trying to convince us to look into the   Divine Beauty speaks directly about
distorted mirror of this culture and the hearts of these two authors and
be concerned with what others think their love for Christ and women.
so we’ll forget who and what our This delightful well-crafted book is
Creator has made us to truly be. We a true expression of God’s love for
need this book! I enjoyed reading and his daughters, reminding us that
discussing these devotions with my we are created in his image, divinely
three daughters. It was a precious and appointed to walk in our one- of-a-
powerful guide of practical insight kind beauty. This book and the lovely A 30 DAY DEVOTIONAL
and biblical wisdom that helped clear charm bracelet will help women of
our vision by pointing us to the King all ages to identify with how the Lord
to find the true beauty that begins
within.
sees them, giving them the tools and
the trinkets to share with others.
Becoming Beautiful
—Beckah Shae —Shari Rigby, actress of Overcomer, based on God’s Truth
co-founder of Shae Shoc Records, director, writer of Beautifully Flawed
award-winning international singer, and motivational speaker
songwriter
MICHELLE COX
JENN GOTZON CHANDLER

4 5
 CONTENTS
The Farmer and the Belle Brand 8 19 Woman of Courage 88

Introduction 10 20 Obedient to a Calling 92

Divine Beauty
1 Truly Valuable 13 21 No Excuses 96
© 2019 by Michelle Cox and Jenn Gotzon Chandler
978-1-7334694-0-1 2 A Magnificent Heart 17 22 All Things Possible 100

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, 3 A Masterpiece 21 23 Made Prosperous 104
or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying,
recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written 4 My Father Says So 25 24 God Has Plans 108
permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in
5 The Master Designer 29 25 An Open Heart 113
critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright
law. 6 Looking at the Heart 33 26 A Beautiful Friend 117
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise noted, are taken from the New
7 Well-Kept Secret 37 27 Limp Hair 121
American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972,
1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. 8 A Transformed Heart 42 28 No Limits 125
Lockman.org. All rights reserved. Scriptures marked (NLT) are taken from the
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by 9 An Overcomer 46 29 A God Who Loves 129
permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All
10 The New You 50 30 Such a Time 133
rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy
Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 11 The Wrong Thing 54 The Woman in My Mirror 137
2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved
worldwide. zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are 12 Wounded to Worthy 58 Acknowledgments 138
trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by
Biblica, Inc. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The 13 Beautiful Generosity 63 About the Authors 139
Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a 14 The Best Makeup 67 Psychology Approach to
publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights
reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King Divine Beauty 140
15 Giving with Joy 71
James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All Nutrition Tips to Divine Beauty 141
rights reserved. 16 True Beauty 75
Therapy Steps to Divine Beauty 142
Design by Chris Garborg | garborgdesign.com 17 Gifted for Glory 79
Editorial services by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com Cosmetic Tips to Divine Beauty 143
18 Because I Love You 83
Printed in the United States of America.
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 7
 co-creator Mike Nawrocki with illustrations by Sara Jo Floyd @
The Farmer and Bryartonfarm blog. The story follows Mable who does not have
the Belle Brand the 3 P’s. She’s not pretty, plump, or productive, but what she does
have is a kind heart and she teaches the chicks at Hen Haus what
The Farmer and The Belle brand provides emotional security truly is beautiful.
to experience true beauty and real love based on biblical and Learn more about our products (and order yours) at www.
psychological principles. We provide a pathway to help you TheFarmerandTheBelle.net.
soar into the beautiful person you were created to be: divinely
beautiful. Our products (movies, jewelry, devotional books, This Divine Beauty devotional book is great for
children’s storybooks, and music) will impact lives, helping all ages small group study, for mothers and daughters, grandmothers
to value themselves no matter their circumstances. and granddaughters, or girlfriends to do together.
Our movie, The Farmer and The Belle: Saving Santaland is a
hilarious Christmas romantic comedy created with family at the
heart. When a NYC model spends the holidays in a small town, This book is dedicated in loving memory of Jacque Sexton
she falls in love with her childhood pen pal—a pig farmer—and who taught me what it looks like to be a beautiful woman of
helps save his hometown’s Santaland, learning true beauty comes God. And to my sweet granddaughters, Anna, Ava, and Eden.
from the heart not just a pretty face. Grandmama hopes you’ll always chase after Jesus.
Our #Beauty Bracelet™ is designed with a beautiful chain —Michelle Cox
that holds five charms (with twenty inscriptions) that affirm the
mind, body, and soul on what God defines as true beauty. The fifth I’d like to dedicate this to my precious mom, Jo-Ann Gotzon,
charm is a heart that adjusts to fall into the palm of your hand. who taught me what kindness is and how to have
That charm reads “Open My Heart” with the passage to real love a beautiful heart.
when you meditate on “Dear Jesus, help me grasp how wide, long, —Jenn Gotzon Chandler
high, and deep is your love for me.”
The Divine Beauty book by Michelle Cox and Jenn Gotzon
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
Chandler will provide a spa for the soul experience to lead you
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
to true beauty based on God’s truth. Divine Beauty: Becoming
Proverbs 31:30
Beautiful based on God’s Truth focuses on the inscriptions
engraved on the #Beauty Bracelet™, equipping women of all ages to
see themselves as God sees them, and to then go out to serve him
as beautiful models of his love.
Beautiful Mable is a children’s storybook by VeggieTales
8 9
 It’s time for us to quit looking at ourselves through our eyes
and start seeing ourselves as God does. We can begin the process
by transforming our thoughts and affirming our souls with biblical
truths about beauty. We start to hold the lies that we’re ugly or
worthless to God’s light and replace them with what he says about

Hello,
us.
This is part of the reason Jenn was burdened to create the
#TrueBeauty bracelet with affirmations about what God says about
women and beauty. The devotions in this book will follow the
affirmations and verses featured on each charm, giving each of us

Beautiful! a one-on-one appointment with the best beauty consultant ever—

God—as he shares his tips for becoming truly beautiful.
Our Divine Beauty book will provide a pathway to experience
When Michelle starts a new book project, she often does beauty based on God’s truth. Spend a day, a week, or a season
several posts on social media to feel out her audience. She posted reflecting and replacing the lies you hear, believe, or think about
a question for another book project and asked, “What’s in your yourself.
jewelry box?” She had hundreds of quick replies with many of the Are you ready to dip into God’s beauty kit, beautiful friends?
responders going into great detail, and some men even popped on Let’s go!
and told what was in their wives’ jewelry boxes. Hugs,
Contrast that to when she posted a question for this book
asking women to tell her what they thought was beautiful about
themselves. The response was eye-opening. Silence. Crickets
Michelle and Jenn
chirping. No comments on her Facebook page. Not one. She did
get a few private replies, but that was it.
She was floored. It was so unexpected. Then as she thought
about it more, she realized that way too often women are their
own worst enemies. They compare themselves to others and are
found lacking. When they look in the mirror, get on a scale, page
through a magazine with gorgeous models, or enter a crowded
room, most hear or believe something negative about themselves.
The God who created us made us in his image—and he
doesn’t make junk.

10 11
 I AM A
Chapter One
Magnificent Masterpiece
Truly Valuable
“The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the
outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
1 Samuel 16:7 nkjv
Do not fear; you are more valuable
than many sparrows.
Luke 12:7

I am valuable.
I am magnificent. FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
I am a masterpiece. The word valuable means something of exceptional worth.
It’s something that is often set apart from the ordinary.
I am beautiful.
I am made by God.
We girls love our accessories, don’t we? Whether it’s a
The Lord looks at my heart. designer handbag, cute shoes, or jewelry bling, it often makes us
Body and soul, feel prettier and completes our look. I sometimes joke that my
handbag and my jewelry are my diet plan. Maybe people won’t
I am marvelously made.
notice my extra pounds if they’re focused on my accessories.
A while back I was in a dinner club group with some sweet
friends whose bank statements had way more zeroes than mine.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Their lives were filled with exotic trips, and their social lists
Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. included well-known influential people whose names you’d
Psalm 139:14 nkjv recognize. I’m still not quite sure how they ended up with me, but
I’m glad they did. Our group gathered each month at a different

12 13
 restaurant, and we had so much fun together. in Jeremiah 31:3, God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting
When we met for dinner one night, I wore the jewelry—a love.”
ring, bracelet, and earrings—that my husband had bought me for Sweet friend, wrap this truth around you like a warm sweater
Christmas. One of my friends gasped when she saw them, “Black on a cold day. Say these words out loud, “I am valuable because
sapphires! Do you know how rare they are? Your husband did God says I am.” Feel the warmth of his peace and comfort and the
good for you this Christmas.” All of them blessing of his love. Then walk with confidence because you are his

 gushed about my jewelry.

I sat there chuckling on the inside.
You see, I knew something they didn’t.
valued and beloved child.

Father, sometimes I feel like I’m not worth anything at all, but
Jesus loves you I’d picked the jewelry out so I knew they
so much that he were just high-quality costume jewelry. My you say I’m valuable. That humbles and amazes me. Help me
to remember that my worth is found in you. Remind me that
willingly gave husband had paid several hundred dollars
for them, but they weren’t real stones. the more I live like you, the more valuable I’ll become. I want
his life for you.
My wedding rings and some other pieces to share your message of hope to others who need to know that
How could you are real jewels, but I discovered years ago they are valuable. Help me guard my tongue so my words will
possibly be that people usually can’t tell the difference always uplift others instead of cutting them down or leaving
between real and fake jewelry, so why scars on their hearts. Thank you for loving me so much. Amen.
more valuable
spend the extra money when only a jeweler
to someone would recognize the difference?
than that? Many of us look at our lives and think BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
we’re junk: that there’s no real value to us. 1. Why is it important for you to tell others that they’re
But God thinks differently. He says, “You are valuable.” Jesus loves valuable to you and to God?
you so much that he willingly gave his life for you. How could you 2. What are three spiritual traits that you already have? What
possibly be more valuable to someone than that? three spiritual traits would you like to instill in your life?
Isaiah 43:1 says, “I have called you by name; you are Mine!” 3. How does it make you feel to know that God knows the
It blows me away that the God who made the universe knows my number of hairs on your head and that he has engraved
name. Matthew 10:30 tells us that he cares so much about us that your name on the palms of his hands?
he numbers the hairs on our heads. Isaiah 49:16 says, “Behold, I
have inscribed you on the palms of My hands.” Did you catch that?
Every time God clasps his hands together, you are right there, held
between his hands.
In Isaiah 43:4, he tells us, “You are precious in My sight.” And

14 15
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Re-read all the Scriptures in the devotion. Everywhere you
see the word “you,” use your name instead. Ask God to place two
friends on your heart who need to hear this message. Let them Chapter Two
know they’re valuable to you and to God.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART A Magnificent

Heart
I AM God created man in His own image; in the image of God He
created him; male and female He created them.
valuable. Genesis 1:27 nkjv

FROM THE BEAUTY KIT

How does it affect the mirror The word magnificent means something that’s impressive,
of your heart to know that notable, or superb beyond the norm. It stands out
God says you are valuable? from the rest and people notice.

My granddaughters—ages six, seven, and nine—love playing

with makeup. My daughter-in-law bought them small makeup
kits so they could play with them (and stay out of their mother’s
makeup).
My six-year-old granddaughter, Eden, is a pro at eye makeup.
Seriously. I’ve asked her to do my eyes and show me how she does
it. She’s that good. But lipstick? That’s another story.
A friend from church shared that Eden recently came bopping
into her Sunday school class with a big smile and bright purple
lipstick that looked like she’d gone around her lips four or five
16 17
 times. Her teeth also sported purple lipstick. art, bestselling books, or famous music. They talked about God’s
Eden’s mom was taken aback when she saw her daughter later creation. A newborn baby. Answers to prayer. Family.
that morning. When they’d left for church, Lydia hadn’t seen her. What could be more magnificent than a newborn baby or a
Eden had run out first and hopped into her car seat in the back vivid sunset? There’s only one thing I can think of, and that’s a
of their big SUV. She jumped out quickly when they arrived at woman whose life is completely sold out to God. That’s where we’ll
church and zipped to her Sunday school class. discover true magnificent beauty that others can’t help but notice.
Miss Eden felt magnificent that As my friend Karen Shafer says, “Magnificence cannot


morning. But if she is like most females, be captured in a photo or an object. It’s the unspeakable and
as she gets older, her image of herself will indescribable joy that wells deep inside of me as deep calls to
change. She might believe the lies Satan deep—the song the Holy Spirit sings when my soul recognizes my
Magnificence is whispers to her or the words that others God’s presence.” Now that is magnificent.
the unspeakable say. She may compare herself to the images
and indescribable in magazines or online and will find herself Father, so many times I look at myself and see a loser. I focus
joy that wells lacking.
on my flaws. Others don’t have to tear me down because
Sweet friend, today is the day to stomp
deep inside of I’m so good at doing it myself. And yet, you have made me
on those lies, to imagine yourself as the
me as deep calls magnificent person God created. Say the magnificent. I’m made in your likeness, so how could I help
to deep—the words out loud, “I am magnificent. (Insert but be that way? Renew my mind with this knowledge.
song the Holy your name) is magnificent.” Let it sink in to the deepest parts of my heart and soul and
Spirit sings Any bit of physical beauty was made help me to grasp it as I never have before. Help me to apply
when my soul by God and when we strive to be more this magnificence to my life as if I’m putting on makeup—
recognizes my
like him, that outward beauty is enhanced enhancing the beauty you’ve given me, so I can glorify you.
because of the loveliness of our hearts. Amen.
God’s presence. Beauty of heart and soul is something
—Karen Shafer we have to work at because we start with
hearts that are filled with sin. This is where BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
our choices come into play each day. We must choose forgiveness
instead of bitterness. We must grant kindness instead of what’s 1. Why is it important for you to realize that God designed
deserved. And we must give love when it isn’t warranted. you to be magnificent?
I recently quizzed my Facebook friends about things they 2. Why should you want to be magnificent for him?
thought were magnificent. I received lots of answers, and here’s 3. What are some traits that will make your soul magnificent?
the thing that really struck me: they didn’t mention works of

18 19
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
It’s easy to be average, but it takes consistent work to become
exceptional. Spend some extra time in God’s Word and in prayer
and ask him to show you three specific talents or gifts that he has Chapter Three
given you so you can be magnificent for him. Do those things, and
then thank him for creating you with those gifts.
A Masterpiece
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ
Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
I AM Ephesians 2:10 nlt

magnificent.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word masterpiece describes someone’s greatest work,
something they’ve done with a masterly skill and excellence that
How does it affect the mirror of your heart to exceeds what most other people can accomplish. Masterpieces are
know that you can become magnificent for God? things of exceptional beauty that can affect many generations.

God describes us as his masterpiece, but a recent stop in

front of my mirror for a leisurely inspection of myself left a less
than stellar impression. Age spots and wrinkles have had the
nerve to settle on my face. Forget a bad hair day, I seem to be
having a bad hair life. Dark circles from not enough rest have
taken up permanent residence under my eyes, leaving me looking
somewhat like a raccoon with smeared mascara. Let’s not even
discuss the pudgy face, double chin, and the turkey neck that
wobbles when I talk. I imagine some of you feel the same when

20 21
you look at yourself and wonder how in the world could God fat. You’re ugly. No one will ever love you. You’ll never amount to
consider you a masterpiece. anything. That voice, those thoughts, those lies often torment us.
It really does describe us, though, because God looks beyond We need to identify the lies, quit listening to the wrong voice, and
our outward appearance to what makes us truly beautiful. He bring the lies into the light of God’s truth. He says, “You are my
made us with hope and a purpose. He workmanship, my masterpiece.” If God says we are his masterpiece,

 created us with wisdom to lean not on our

understanding but on his. He designed us
with the ability to make choices. We can
who are we to dispute him?

You are Father, help me grasp at my core that I am your masterpiece

choose joy, gratitude, and peace, all traits
beautiful and you’ve created me for your glory. The Mona Lisa and
that make us lovely.
because God The King James version says that we the fresco in the Sistine Chapel are masterpieces that have
is an artist and are his “workmanship.” God is a master touched people for hundreds of years. I want to be that
you are his craftsman and what he makes is never kind of masterpiece for you: one whose life is lived in such a
masterpiece. junk. God has given us fingers so we can manner that others will see the beauty of you. I want to be
touch others with his love, feet so we can the kind of masterpiece for you that my family will talk about
go help those who need it, ears to hear others who need someone for generations to come as they remember that I loved you,
to care. All of you is a delicate masterpiece that he has designed. I loved them, I prayed for them, I served others, and I lived
Believe it. You are God’s masterpiece. with purpose for you. My heart’s desire is that my soul will be
What’s so wonderful about this is that—as I discovered from something of exceptional beauty for you. Amen.
my time in front of the mirror—the passing of years often brings
a downhill slide to our outward appearance, but our inward
appearance can just keep becoming more and more beautiful as BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
the years go by… as long as we’ve lived those years for Jesus.
I’m sure Leonardo da Vinci never dreamed that his painting 1. Why is it often so difficult to believe that you are God’s
of the Mona Lisa would become the number one art masterpiece masterpiece?
in the world. Michelangelo spent years working to complete the 2. Why is it so easy to believe Satan’s lies?
fresco in the Sistine Chapel. There must have been days when he 3. Masterpieces are often around for centuries. What do you
became discouraged and went home thinking he’d just painted hope to leave behind someday?
absolute junk. There were probably even naysayers who told these
artists their work was terrible. But, today, these works of art are
recognized as masterpieces.
Satan excels at whispering negative thoughts to us. You’re

22 23
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
We too often believe Satan’s lies. We need to replace those lies
with God’s truth. It’s been said that it takes twenty-one days to
build a new habit. Mark your calendar with the day you start, and Chapter Four
for the next three weeks, begin and end your day with these words,
“God says I am a masterpiece.”
My Father Says So
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
Your adornment must not be merely external—
braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on

I AM A
dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the
imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is
mASTERPIECE. precious in the sight of God.
1 Peter 3:3-4

FROM THE BEAUTY KIT

How does it affect the mirror of your heart to The word beautiful describes something extraordinary or
know that God says you are a masterpiece? incredible—something that gives others great delight to see or
hear, such as a heart-stirring concert, a lovely sunset, or someone
with great physical beauty.

I knew a woman (we’ll call her Betty) who was beautiful. Even
though she had grandchildren, her figure was still great and she
loved to show off her shapely legs. She was delighted whenever
anyone told her she was beautiful.
I’d learned from personal experience that she was quite vain
and that she wasn’t nice to people who didn’t recognize her beauty
or make her the center of attention.
24 25
 I once asked her what they were doing now that her husband in his image. How could we be anything but beautiful? My little
(we’ll call him Bob) was retired. She said, “Oh, it’s a wonderful life! granddaughter, Ava, is truly beautiful. Even better, she has a sweet
We sleep in and then Bob fixes breakfast. We play cards, and then and loving spirit. People stop us all the time to comment on her
I go lay out by the pool all afternoon so I can keep my tan. When I beauty and her gorgeous red hair. But one day, a playmate told her
come inside, I get fixed up and we go shopping then out to dinner.” she wasn’t pretty. When she told me about it, I said, “What did you
Her whole existence was about her. tell him?”
She continued, “I just don’t understand “I told him I was too beautiful because my daddy tells me that

 why the women at the pool are so catty.

They barely speak to me. I guess it’s
because I’m so beautiful and they don’t
every day.”
Maybe we need to follow young Ava’s example and believe
the words our Father whispers to our souls, “My daughter, you are
Beauty on the
measure up.” beautiful.”
outside can’t
Contrast that with my friend, Debbie,
make up for who is lovely but doesn’t seem to know
ugly on the Father, help me to accept myself and to love myself not because
it. Her days are filled with serving others.
of anything I’ve done, but because you made me beautiful.
inside. People flock to her because of her beautiful
spirit, laughter, and genuine concern. Help me to listen to the words that you speak to my soul. I’ve
—Daphne Woodall often prayed for you to help me see others through your eyes,
As my friend Daphne Woodall says,
“Beauty on the outside can’t make up but today I ask you to let me see myself through your eyes.
for ugly on the inside.” But beauty on the inside far outweighs God, it boggles my mind that you see something beautiful
outward beauty, and inward beauty never fades. when you look at me. Groom my heart to be something of
It’s often said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We exceptional loveliness for you, and as I meet people each day,
gaze in awe at God’s glorious creations, but when we look at let them see the beauty of you in me. Amen.
ourselves—another of God’s glorious creations—we somehow see
anything but beauty.
Makeup can correct many flaws in our outward appearance, BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
but it doesn’t correct soul wounds about how we see ourselves.
Many times those wounds have come from others who told us we 1. How can being vain affect you and your relationships?
were ugly, fat, or not good enough. Often we carry those hurtful 2. How do soul wounds from the past affect how you see
words with us for the rest of our lives. yourself today?
We look in the mirror and see nothing but pudgy faces, hairy 3. How did the daily words Ava heard from her daddy impact
chins, and acne scars. But all that changes when the Creator of the how she felt about herself? What can her example teach
universe looks at us and says, “You are beautiful.” God created us you about listening when God says that you’re beautiful?

26 27
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Replace every negative lie you hear about yourself with the
words “I am beautiful—because God says so.” Start by making
a list of the beautiful things you find about your outward Chapter Five
appearance. (Do you have pretty eyes, a sparkling smile, or a
lovely complexion?) Next, make a list of specific ways that you can
become more beautiful on the inside. The Master
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
Designer
God created man in His own image; in the image of God He
I AM created him; male and female He created them.
Genesis 1:27 nkjv
BEAUTIFUL.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word made describes something that has been created,
How does it affect the mirror of your heart to invented, or crafted. The word God describes the Creator of the
know that God says you are beautiful? universe, the one who made us.

Middle school and high school can be tough—especially

for those who are insecure or have low self-esteem. There’s the
pressure of entering an unknown environment and 62,475 fears
and worries that hit us as we do. Will I fit in? What if they think
I’m ugly? Will they think I’m a nerd? What should I wear? Are these
shoes out of style? How can I hide this boulder-sized zit on my face?
Should I do my hair in a ponytail, braid, or curl it? What if they
don’t like me?

28 29
 Peer pressure is enormous. Add in fears regarding living our God made me. I am the work of his hand. God made me exactly
faith, and it can be even scarier. Will they think I’m weird because how he wanted me to be. I am beautiful because I’m formed in
I’m a Christian? Will they make fun of me? Will I have the courage his image. My Father is the King of kings, and that makes me a
to put my faith on display, or will I hide it because I want to be one princess. He has a purpose for me. Because of all that, I can walk
of the cool kids? Will I tell others about God, or will I keep the best through each day with confidence.
news ever a well-kept secret?
We’ve all been there. We’ve all had
Father, instead of looking in the mirror and focusing on my
 those worries. Many of us never outgrow
them. But here’s the thing: we can walk
with confidence through life and through
flaws, help me to see myself through your eyes. Thank you
for forming me exactly how you wanted me to be. Help me
We were made the hallways of our schools. After all, we to look at myself and say, “This is how God made me, and
by the King of were made by the King of kings. We are he does all things well.” As I walk through the hallways of my
Kings. We are his beloved daughters, and that makes us school, or through the corridors of life, help me to walk in your
his beloved princesses. confidence. Remind me that I am a daughter of the King. Give
daughters, and He made us in his image, and that me boldness to share my faith, to tell others about my amazing
that makes us means we’re beautiful because he is a God, and to fulfill your purpose for me. Amen.
beautiful and amazing God. In Jeremiah
princesses.
1:4-5, he tells us, “Before I formed you in
the womb I knew you, and before you were BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the
nations.” 1. Why do you worry about what other people think?
Isaiah 64:8 says, “O Lord, You are our Father, we are the clay, 2. How does it make a difference to know that your Father is
and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand.” the King of kings—and you are his princess?
When master potters make a new mug or bowl, they make 3. How can you replace your fears with confidence?
exactly what they want. It’s the same with God. He formed us. He
molded us. He set us apart so the nations could come to know him
through us.
The next time those ugly worries and fears fill your head,
imagine that each of them is on a chalkboard and you’re erasing
them one by one. Get rid of them so they don’t hold you back
from serving God and becoming the woman he desires you to be.
Fill the chalkboard with these words instead: I am special because

30 31
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Ask God to show you one friend who is struggling with
confidence and another friend who needs more courage to live
out her faith. Become their encourager. Replace the lies that Satan Chapter Six
whispers to them, and share the truths you’ve learned here.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART Looking at

the Heart
I AM The Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or
MADE BY GOD. at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the
Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward
appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7 nkjv

How does it affect the mirror of

your heart to know that you are
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
made by God?
The word look means to gaze at something in order to see it,
or to search or examine something. The word heart describes our
inner part—our personality, feelings, and emotions.
It’s the deepest part of us.

The holiday season had arrived, along with big crowds at the
department store. I groaned as I saw the long line at the gift-wrap
counter, but I needed boxes, and I’d bought enough that day to get
a free deluxe gift wrap, so it was worth the wait.
People have always fascinated me, so I watched the customers
in line. Some were patient. Some looked grumpy. And others spent
their time talking to the folks waiting in line with them.

32 33
 I noticed an elderly lady a couple of people ahead of me. She his example. Where we can spend time with him and hear what he
was probably around eighty, but she was so beautiful. Her soft- wants to say.
looking white hair was cut in a cute style that complimented her We need to stay close enough so he can examine our
features. Her makeup was tasteful and flattering. And her shoes hearts and see what changes need to be made there. What hard
and outfit were casual but stylish. feelings we harbor that will make us bitter. What sins need to be
I tapped her on the shoulder. When she turned and looked at cleansed from our lives. And even what parts of our hearts we’re
me, I said, “You are the most beautiful lady. I’ve just been standing withholding from him.
here thinking that, and I wanted you to know.” If we’ll come to God with hearts that are tender, if we’ll walk
Other people commented that they’d just been thinking with him throughout our lifetime, we’ll become more and more
the same thing. She was visibly touched. like him, and that will be reflected in our faces. What could make

 “Nobody’s told me that in years. Thank you

so much.”
I’ve often thought that our faces are
us more beautiful than that? What could be more wonderful than
a countenance that sparkles for Jesus?

Our faces are like like the road maps of our lives. They tell
the road maps Dear Father, when you look at my heart, I know you’ll find
the story of where we’ve been and what
of our lives. They we’ve done. This lady’s face said that she’d things that shouldn’t be there. That makes me sad. Give me a
been sweet, had laughed a lot, and had an heart that is tender and receptive when you come to me with
tell the story
inner beauty that matched her outward things that I must change if I want to be more like you. When
of where we’ve
beauty. you search my soul, I hope that you’ll also find things that will
been and what touch your heart as I strive to live for you. Help me to be so
You know what really struck me about
we’ve done. that moment? The way she’d lived her life in tune with you that I hear your heartbeat, that I hear your
with her beautiful heart had become part sweet whispers to my soul. Help my countenance to shine for
of her outward appearance. you, and help others to see you in me. Amen.
Friends, the way we live each day becomes part of the stories,
the road maps, of our lives. They can say we traveled closely with
Jesus each day or that we traveled as far away from him as we BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
could get.
1. How is your face like a road map, and how does that apply
If you’re one who has walked away from God, the good news
to you spiritually?
is that the road back to him is never closed. Love, forgiveness, and
2. What will God find when he searches your heart?
mercy will be waiting for you when you arrive back home.
3. Why is a tender heart so important in your relationship
It’s always the best choice to stay as close to Jesus as we can.
with Jesus? And how can having a heart that is beautiful
Where we can soak up his sweetness. Where we can learn from
for him also be reflected in your countenance?
34 35
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Think of two women who are beautiful because of how they
live for God. Tell them how their hearts for him have touched
you, and then ask them about the things they’ve learned as they’ve Chapter Seven
traveled through life with Jesus.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART Well-Kept Secret

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
THE LORD Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Psalm 139:14 esv
LOOKS at
the heart.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word body describes our physical structure, the outward
What does it do to the mirror of appearance that everyone sees. The word soul describes the part
your heart to know that God is searching there? of us that has life and feelings and can take action. The soul is a
separate entity from the body and it controls aspects of morality
and character. It’s immortal. Our daily choices affect the health
and well-being of our souls.

I am horizontally challenged. I’ve always loved shopping with

my friends, but hated that the curvy department always seemed to
be in a far corner of the store—drawing attention to the fact that I
wear plus-size clothes. I generally just walked through the skinny
girl departments with my girlfriends and waited to shop for my
clothes until I was alone.
One day as I passed a mirror in the mall and got a look at my

36 37
larger-than-life self, it was like the mirror shouted, “It’s not a well- marvelously made for the purpose of fellowshipping with him and
kept secret! They know!” serving him.
I suspect some of you might relate to that, and I imagine many You know what I’ve discovered with the beauty of hindsight?
of you have been on the diet escalator with me. Up and down. Up The weight didn’t matter when it came to giving love to those who
and down. Up, up, and away! I exercise, but now that I’m an old needed it, telling others about our amazing God, or doing acts
grandma-type, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ll probably never of service for those who needed to know somebody cared. Once
be thin. Yet I can’t tell you the times I’ve let my weight control my I got the weight of my failures off me, my soul could soar as the
life, and even allowed it to keep me from doing things for God beautiful creation God designed it to be.
because I was ashamed of how I looked.
I obviously haven’t done too well controlling the living-
Dear Lord, I sure am good at finding all my flaws, and then I
history-museum of food that has attached

 to my hips, but I can take my eyes off

the negatives and start looking for the
blessings I can praise God for today and
allow Satan to use them to defeat me. I believe his lies that I’m
not good enough, that I’m not well-spoken or talented, that
I’m not beautiful enough. And because of that I’ve often taken
God doesn’t a back seat and allowed others to do what you asked me to
for the ways that I can serve him.
make junk, so do. Today, Lord, I bring you my wounds of hurtful words and
As I worship an Almighty God, I can
quit treating thank him for creating me: for eyes that shattered self-esteem, and I ask you to heal me and free me so
yourself can see my loved ones, for fingers that can I can accomplish the tasks you’ve asked me to do. Remind me
that way. move and pick things up, for feet and legs that you think I’m marvelously made because you made me.
that take me where I want to go, for ears Help me to become a woman whose soul is beautiful for you.
that hear beloved voices, and for a brain that works. And I can Amen.
thank him for the fact that even with my extra pounds, he still says
that I am marvelously made.
Today I praise him for a soul that’s a lifeline between him and BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
me—that we’re connected through God the Father, Jesus the Son,
and the Holy Spirit. I thank him for a soul that gives conviction 1. What physical things control you, and how are they
when I’m headed down a wrong path, a soul that can feel the pain keeping you from serving Jesus?
of others. 2. Why do you so often believe Satan’s lies instead of God’s
I’m reminded that the soul is a divine gift, and it’s only when truth?
we dig deep to pull out our soul wounds (even our obsessions 3. What are two ways your soul could soar for God?
with our weight) and bring them into the light for God’s healing,
that he can replace the lie with his truth: we are fearfully and

38 39
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Take a good look at yourself and discover ways that your body
and soul are marvelously made. Write those things down today
and believe them. God doesn’t make junk, so quit treating yourself
that way.
I AM
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART an Overcomer
BODY AND SOUL, Little children, you are from God and have overcome them,
I AM for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
MARVELOUSLY 1 John 4:4 esv
MADE.
I am transformed.
How does it affect the mirror of I am an overcomer.
your heart to know that God says both your
I am renewing my mind.
body and soul
are marvelously made? I will bring the lie into the light
and replace it with God’s truth.
He heals the brokenhearted.

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21 nkjv

40 41
 of cupcakes, they might not be able to pay their bills. I couldn’t live
with the guilt of that now could I?
It seems I’ve passed the cupcake gene down to two of my
Chapter Eight grandchildren. I’m sure I would flunk grandparent school if
I didn’t buy—and share—cupcakes with them. One has to
rationalize these things.
A Transformed Cupcakes rank as number one on
my list, but I also love chocolate, and hot 
Heart bread, and, well, let me make this easy: I
basically love every food that isn’t good for
If we want to
grow into women
me. Let’s just say that never in my lifetime
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the with beautiful
have I craved a carrot stick or waxed poetic
renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good about broccoli. hearts for God,
and acceptable and perfect will of God. But then I realized something. Those we must allow
Romans 12:2 nkjv cupcakes and all those other not-good- him to do his
for-me items were causing bulges in my work in us and
clothes (the nerve of them!), and higher transform us into
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT numbers in my cholesterol, blood sugar, what he wants us
The word transform means to make a big or noticeable change. and blood pressure. About ten years ago, I to become.
Transformation is a process that usually takes time and effort decided that I’d need a different mindset if
but the results are worth it. I was going to be healthy. I started eating more good-for-me foods,
cut back on my beloved cupcakes, and started exercising regularly.
I discovered that once my mind was transformed, changes
I love cupcakes. I can walk into a cupcake shop and almost started happening, and it didn’t take long until I was healthier and
hear the angels singing The Hallelujah Chorus. One day I was feeling better about myself. The truth is that most women don’t see
certain that I even saw a beam of light from heaven spotlighting themselves as beautiful. We need to transform our thinking from
the cupcake display. My husband said it was just the glare from a the lies of I’m fat, ugly, and worthless to I’m beautiful, magnificent,
car windshield outside, but what does he know? and made by God.
Those soft and fluffy rounds of cake are delightful. The mile- The same is true spiritually. We become stagnant, and no
high mounds of frosting call out, “Come to me, baby!” Somehow, growth happens when we just stay the same. If we want to see
I always answer. And, of course, I can’t buy just one. The people ourselves as beautiful women of faith, to be more like Christ, it
who own the store have to make a living. If I don’t buy a container begins by renewing our minds.

42 43
 We can start by identifying areas where we want God to GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
transform us. Maybe it’s unconditional love for others, or traits
Make a list of three things you want to change physically and
such as living a pure life, having joy, peace, patience, kindness, or
three things you want to change spiritually. Make a second list of
self-control. Maybe it’s to become more hospitable or to provide
the things that keep you from doing that. (It helps to be aware of
friendship or acts of service for others. The perfect place to start is
the roadblocks you put up in your life.) What steps do you need to
with prayer.
take to transform your mind so you can accomplish the things on
Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process, and
your first list?
sometimes it’s a painful one. But if we want to grow into the
beautiful women of faith that God sees in us, we must allow him
to transform us into what he wants us to become. THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART

Dear Jesus, transform me each day to become more and more

like you. Renew my mind and help me to focus on you and I AM
how I can live more for you each day. Show me what joy,
peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-
TRANSFORMED.
control look like, and how they’ll impact my life and the lives
of others. I know that sometimes the changes you’ll ask me to
make will be difficult, and I’m so grateful that you don’t expect How does it affect the mirror of your heart
perfection. Help me to be courageous, to overcome the lies that to know that your heart and life can be
say I’ll never amount to anything. Set my heart on you and
transformed?
make me a beautiful shining reflection of you to those around
me. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Why is it important to transform our minds first if we want
change to happen?
2. Why is spiritual change sometimes painful?
3. How does transforming our minds tie in to becoming
inwardly beautiful?

44 45
 My pal, Carol, is one of those gals who just sparkles. I always
think of her as the bling queen because she loves jewelry and
clothes that have pizazz. Her personality is larger than life, and
Chapter Nine people are drawn to her because of that.
I’ll never have Carol’s flair for fashion. It just isn’t in me.
Oh my, we so often make comparisons, don’t we? We look at
An Overcomer other people and find ourselves lacking.

In all these things we are more than conquerors

We need to overcome that to realize God
made us exactly like he wants us. We need
to quit listening to Satan’s lies that we’re

We can’t get
through him who loved us. ugly, or worthless, or we’ll never amount to
over our pasts
Romans 8:37 niv anything.
What if we made comparisons about and what we
inner beauty? You see, part of what makes used to be or do.
my friends Missy and Carol so beautiful is We need to quit
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
that they both have a fierce love for God, recycling those
The words overcomer or conqueror describe someone who and they’re using their talents and time thoughts.
defeats an enemy or struggle, has success over temptation to touch the lives of others. The love of
or weakness, or determines that they will conquer a situation Jesus is what makes both of them sparkle and shine. They inspire
no matter what it takes to do so. me. These are the kinds of comparisons we need, because as it
says in Proverbs 27:17 “iron sharpens iron.” We can help provide
accountability to each other as we strive to live for God. Friends
who are sold out to Jesus will make us want to be our best for him.
My friend, Missy, is beautiful. She reminds me of a Barbie Sometimes we have trouble overcoming our lack of self-
doll brought to life. Her hair always looks like she has come esteem or confidence. We’ve believed Satan’s lies. We’ve believed
straight from the salon, and her smile is worthy of a toothpaste the words that others have said about us, or even the things we’ve
commercial. Her makeup looks like a professional makeup artist told ourselves. Or we can’t get over our pasts and what we used to
has worked her magic for a red carpet event. Add a cute figure, be or do. We need to quit recycling those thoughts.
fashionable clothes, perfectly-accessorized jewelry, and shoes, and Sweet friend, it’s time to say the words, “I’m an overcomer!”
she is screen-ready. Every. Single. Day. She even looks like that Say them out loud. Apply those words to your soul wounds—your
when she goes fishing with her husband. fears, anxieties, emotional pain, health challenges, or even your
She is basically everything I am not. body weight. It’s time to take authority over the trauma in your

46 47
life. Look ahead to the future God has for you instead of being GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
stuck in the past. Quit letting the memories haunt you.
Make a list of three things you need to overcome in your life
Picture Jesus standing at the foot of the cross. He is waiting
whether they are emotional, physical, or spiritual. Find someone
for you to bring your burdens to him, but you have to be willing to
who’s trying hard to live for Jesus. Ask them if they’ll be your iron-
let go of them. And when you do, it will set you free to truly walk
sharpens-iron friend and then work together on what you want to
through life as an overcomer—as the beautiful woman he wants
overcome, and encourage each other along the way.
you to be.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART

Lord, I so often make comparisons to other people and find
myself lacking. The scars of my past have clung to me for so
long. The bitter words that have been hurled at me caused
wounds in my heart that I’ve never gotten over. I’m tired of I AM AN
carrying all the baggage. Help me to bring all my burdens to
you and leave them there. Help me to be an overcomer, to OVERCOMER.
conquer the past so I can look forward to the future. Thank
you for the encouragers in my life. Help me to spur my family
and friends on to love you more and serve you better. Amen.
How does it affect the mirror of your
heart when you determine that you’ll
BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE become an overcomer?
1. Why do you so often make comparisons to other people?
2. Who inspires you to be a better Christian? Why?
3. Why is it important for you to become an overcomer?

48 49
 But sometimes change, or a time of renewal, is necessary.
That can be scary, particularly when it comes to trying out a new
haircut or color. If it turns out the way we hoped, it’s fabulous and
Chapter Ten makes us feel wonderful. But if that new short cut looks awful on
us, or the new highlights turn our hair gray instead of blonde (as
mine did one time), it seems like it takes
The New You forever before the botched results grow out
or can be fixed. 
It’s the same with us spiritually.
Sometimes we’ve walked away from our
Renewing our
Be renewed in the spirit of your mind.
Ephesians 4:23 nkjv faith or we’ve distanced ourselves from minds often
God. At times, his sweet whispers to our necessitates a
souls are enough to bring us home to him. big step of faith,
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT But at other times it requires him sending and it can require
tough circumstances and difficult lessons us getting out
When we renew something it means we come back to it, we start it to get through to our hard hearts. When
again, or we become like new physically or spiritually. It’s a time of of our comfort
that happens, it’s not because he doesn’t
freshening that sometimes means stepping out in faith. love us; it’s because he does, and he misses zones where we
the precious fellowship he had with us in have no choice
the past. but to trust God.
Renewing our minds often necessitates
a big step of faith, and it can require us getting out of our comfort
Have you ever gotten in a rut with your hairstyle, makeup, zones where we have no choice but to trust God.
or fashion? I know I have, and part of the reason for that is that I My daughter-in-law does hair and makeup for weddings. For
don’t like change. It’s easy to get stuck in a routine, isn’t it? To wear bridal portraits and wedding days, women sometimes don’t trust
the old shoes that we’ve worn to cozy perfection or the shirt that their own skills. They want someone with experience so they will
has such comfortable fabric. It can feel odd to change to a brighter look their best.
shade of lipstick when we’ve worn more muted tones. And As we take the first step of faith, it’s nerve-wracking, especially
sometimes we hang on to our old clothes because we haven’t had when we can’t see the end results or we wonder how we’re going to
time or money to buy new ones, because we love an old sweater find the money or gain the skills to do what God wants us to do.
or jeans, or maybe even because an item of clothing has But he never calls us to a task without equipping us with all that
sentimental value. we will need, and we can always trust him.

50 51
 Sometimes the answer comes through someone who is an GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
expert or through friends who will walk the journey with us.
Spend some time with God today. Ask him to show you areas
There’s power in worshipping together, praying together, or having
in your life where you need to be renewed, and then set some
(or being) an encourager along the way.
specific goals to get started on that.
When a woman fulfills the calling God has placed on her
heart, it’s an inspiration for other women to renew their minds, to
step out in faith, and to follow him. What could be more beautiful THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
than that?

Father, I know that renewing my mind is important, but it can I AM

be scary as I venture into unknown territory like a new school
or job. It’s intimidating when I step out in faith. Thoughts RENEWED.
jumble through my mind like a kaleidoscope. What if I fail? I
don’t know anyone. I don’t know what I’m doing. But I know
that you have the answers to all my concerns. Thank you
for always being with me. Help me to trust you. As I come How does it affect the mirror of
into contact with those who have wandered away from you, your heart when you go through
remind me to pray for them, that their hearts will be renewed a time of renewal with God?
and strengthened, and that they will return to you. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Why is change, or a time of renewal, sometimes so scary?
2. When God sends tough circumstances to you to get your
attention, how does that show his love for you?
3. When you step out in faith, why is it important for you to
have a Christian friend to walk the journey with you?

52 53
 didn’t, Emme said, “There must be a defect. I’m going to have to
return them. I’m so disappointed your sizes have changed.”
Soon after that, Emme made a discovery. It happened when
Chapter Eleven she stepped on the scales and discovered that she was what had
changed, because there were ten more

The Wrong Thing

pounds on the display than what had been
there in the past. Emme called the store
and apologized, “I just got off the scales,

and it seems I’m the problem, not your When we make
“I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but clothes.” the discovery
that You should keep them from the evil one. Sanctify them Emme had believed the wrong thing. that we are not
by Your truth. Your word is truth.” We so often do the same thing, don’t we? living in the
John 17:15, 17 nkjv The truth is that God says we’re image of God,
beautiful. We need to believe that, but
the problem isn’t
there’s a responsibility to our beauty, and
sometimes we make choices that make us him, it’s us.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
less than beautiful on the inside. When
The word lie describes a situation where someone deliberately we make the discovery that we are not living in the image of God,
tells something that isn’t true. Light shines into a dark space the problem isn’t him, it’s us. Just as Emme learned that it wasn’t
and illuminates it. the clothes at her favorite store that had changed, we need to take
a long look at the mirror of our lives and discover how we have
changed, and what has caused us to live less like Jesus.
Sometimes circumstances have rocked our worlds. Other
My friend, Emme, is classically beautiful. Her sweet spirit times we’ve become so busy that God has been pushed to the side.
makes her even lovelier. She’s always fashionably attired, and she Perhaps insecurity, feelings of inadequacy, or words have wounded
has a favorite store where she loves to shop. She was delighted us, causing us to shut everyone out, or to get mad at God. These
when they had a 70% off sale. Emme ordered several outfits, but are lies we must hold captive to the light of Jesus so we can be
they didn’t fit when they arrived. She was surprised. She’d always healed.
worn that size from that store. Have you ever had a facial at a salon? They do skin care
Emme was so upset that she called and expressed her by providing a deep cleansing process that removes impurities
disappointment. “You must be getting these clothes made elsewhere. from the face. Often, the esthetician can correct things we’re
Do you have a new manufacturer?” When the clerk replied they doing wrong, and can give great advice to avoid future problems

54 55
by helping us deal with inflammation or other issues. Healthy GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
glowing skin gives us confidence and makes us feel better about
Think of three lies someone has told you that you’ve hung on
ourselves.
to or that you’ve believed about yourself. Now bring them into the
It’s similar with God’s soul care. First, he does a deep cleanse
light of God’s Word and apply his truth to those lies. Plan some
in our hearts, removing the impurities. Then through the light of
“be still” time with God. Listen carefully to his voice and ask him
his Word, he highlights the things we need to change, applying
what he wants you to hear.
Scripture to areas where our hearts have been inflamed by Satan’s
lies. We can then go out each day with faces that glow with his love
and the confidence that we have value and worth because we are THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
his precious and beautiful creations.

I WILL REPLACE
Jesus, I often listen to other voices instead of listening to you.
THE LIES WITH
I give weight to what they say, and I brush off what you tell
me, even though you’re the one who loves me most. Give me GOD’S TRUTH.
courage to overcome the lies about my identity that have taken
root in my heart, and help me to find my value and worth in
you. As I go about my day, remind me that my body and soul How does it affect the mirror of your heart to
are so marvelously made by you. Help me to see the lessons know that lies will bring you heartache and
that you’re teaching me, and to use those to help others see God’s truth will bring you joy?
that they were created with hope and purpose. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Why are you so quick to believe the wrong things, to
believe the lies?
2. What lie do you need to forgive and heal from? What truth
do you need to believe?
3. How can you help others through what you’ve
experienced?

56 57
 the female equivalent of Jared—a Barbie type with great fashion
sense, a cute figure, gorgeous hair, and perfect features.
Instead, Beth was chubby like me. Her hair didn’t have any
Chapter Twelve particular style to it, and she didn’t have features that would make
her stand out from anyone. But, oh my, when we sat down and
talked, I discovered she was one of the
Wounded to most precious people I’d ever met. She was
sweet and funny; she kept us all laughing. 
Worthy It was obvious that she and Jared were
deeply in love.
Jesus says, “I
On the way home that night, I told look at you and
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. my husband, “She was nothing like what I say you are
Psalm 147:3 niv expected.” valuable. I look at
He replied, “Oh, didn’t I tell you? you and say you
His first wife was gorgeous. Looked like a are loved. I look
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT model. He fell hard for her, but after they
at you and say
The word heal means to cure someone or to restore them back to were married, she was mean to him. She
mistreated him, and if everything wasn’t you are worthy.”
health, either physically or emotionally. The word brokenhearted
refers to someone who is filled with despair or hurt, stricken with about her, she screamed and called him
grief or heavy-hearted. ugly names. She tore down his self-esteem and completely broke
his heart.”
That was so sad to me. My husband continued, “When he
looked for a second wife, he didn’t focus on outward beauty. He
I met a man many years ago. (We’ll call him Jared and his looked for someone who was beautiful on the inside. Someone
wife Beth.) Jared was exceptionally good-looking. He was tall, who would love him and God.” Jared found a beautiful treasure in
blonde, and could have been a male model. Add to it that he was Beth.
successful, loved the Lord, and had a wonderful personality, and Perhaps some of you have been in situations where your
he was a great catch. heart has been broken, where you’ve been wounded and scarred
Several months after my husband and I met Jared, we were emotionally, and sometimes physically. The big question is: How
invited to dinner with him and his wife at the home of some can you be fully healed where you’re no longer reliving the pain
friends. I hope my jaw didn’t drop when Jared walked in with his each day?
wife that night. She was so not what I’d imagined. I was expecting Take some time and look for the root of your pain. Is it

58 59
rejection, fear of failure, betrayal, being taken advantage of, GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
malicious hurt, or the absence of love that truly breaks your heart?
One of the first things you must do to begin the healing
The good news is that Jesus is here to heal you in all these
process is to forgive the person who has hurt you. That’s hard to
areas. You might have been wounded from putting your value and
do, but bitterness only hurts you. Ask God to help you forgive,
trust in another person. People will fail you. Your love needs to
then make a list of your hurts and bring them in prayer to the one
come from Jesus. Your value and your worth needs to come from
who can heal your broken heart.
him.
Jesus says, “I look at you and say you are valuable. I look at
you and say you are loved. I look at you and say you are worthy.” THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
Begin your healing process by believing these truths from the God
who loves you just as you are.
JESUS HEALS THE
Dear Jesus, the pain of my past overwhelms me sometimes. BROKENHEARTED.
The angry words that were yelled at me took root in my heart
and grew a garden of bitterness. Rejection has affected my
ability to feel loved and trampled my self-esteem. I don’t want
to live the rest of my life being bitter. I don’t want to push What does the mirror of your heart reflect
people away when they try to love me. Today I bring my pain when you think about Jesus healing your
and bitterness to you. Heal me, Lord. Instead of listening to broken heart?
others, help me to listen to your loving voice and to find my
worth in you. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. What circumstances have broken your heart and how has
that affected you?
2. Why is it more important to look at inward beauty rather
than outer beauty?
3. How does God promise to help you in your healing
process?

60 61
 I AM Chapter Thirteen
a Joyful Giver
Beautiful
Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs Generosity
of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has
done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things
Let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly
for us, and we are filled with joy.
or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
Psalm 126:2-3 niv
2 Corinthians 9:7 nkjv

I am generous.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
I am joyful.
The word generous describes a person who gives willingly
I am a joyful giver. and joyfully, and sometimes even sacrificially.
True beauty is serving others.
I use my gifts to serve others.
I am attractive because When asked to picture a beautiful woman, we don’t usually
think of an elderly lady with wrinkles, no makeup, and gray hair
I engage in acts of love.
pulled up into a bun. For me, Lucy Stewart (usually called Maw
Stewart) was one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever known.
We went to church together. I was about twelve when I first met
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as her, and she had one of those personalities that radiated joy and
good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Jesus.
1 Peter 4:10 nkjv Many years ago, our church was on a pay-as-you-go policy to
build our new sanctuary. The congregation was small, but its faith
was big.
62 63
 The supply company wouldn’t unload the lumber or other Do we give willingly when God nudges our hearts, or do
materials until the load was paid for. Some Sundays, the pastor we remain tight-fisted as we hang onto what we think is ours?
took up two or three offerings until we got what we needed. Then Everything that we have comes from God anyway, and the
came the Sunday when Maw Stewart put her social security check only thing we really have to give him is a willing heart. Being
in the offering plate. It was her only income. The pastor begged her generous with our giving brings us one step closer to being able to
to take it back, but she told him God would supply for her. That physically control what we do to become beautiful women of God.
happened multiple times, and God took As Lucy Stewart proved, when we serve Jesus with joy and

 care of her every time. I’ll never forget her

joy as she gave and her beautiful heart that
was so willing to sacrifice for what was
when we give with generous hearts, it’s a beautiful thing. It will
touch the hearts of others for generations to come.
When we serve
precious to her.
Jesus with Dear Jesus, thank you for the reminder that everything I have
Fifty years later, the church is thriving,
joy and give comes from you. Give me a heart that’s generous to give back
and the congregation has moved into
with generous a building three times that size. The to you. I could never repay you for all you’ve done for me.
hearts, it’s a church has a national television ministry You’ve given me so much and I thank you for blessing me.
and a presence worldwide. It supports Forgive me for the times when I’ve been stingy with what I
beautiful thing.
missionaries around the world, cares have. Give me a heart that finds joy in giving, even when it
It will touch the
for members in need, reaches out to the requires sacrifice on my part. When others look at my life, help
hearts of others community, and began an emergency them to see a woman with a beautiful, tender heart who gives
for generations response organization that’s helped people whenever you whisper to her soul. Amen.
to come. around the world. Countless people have
come to know Jesus, and thousands of lives
have been impacted for eternity. BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Maw Stewart’s willing sacrifice was part of all of this
happening. 1. Why does God love a cheerful giver?
I hope I never forget the life lesson that precious lady taught 2. Why do you try to hang on to what is yours when God
me. Her example strengthened my faith. Her joy when giving asks you to give something?
sacrificially inspired a flame inside me to do the same. Her 3. How can a generous spirit make you a beautiful woman
confidence that God would take care of her provided a beautiful of God?
example for all of us. She gave willingly, not so others could see,
but as unto the Lord. He used her faithfulness to spur others to
give, and because of that, the church building was completed.

64 65
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
This might be a tough one. Today we want you to be generous
to someone, whether it’s with your money, time, or talents. Ask
God to place someone on your heart who has a need, and then Chapter Fourteen
fulfill that need for them. It won’t take long for you to discover
something important: it’s impossible to out-give God.
The Best Makeup
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance.
Proverbs 15:13 nkjv

I AM
GENEROUS. FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word merry means full of joy. It describes someone
whose countenance (face) often has a warm smile or
an expression filled with laughter.
What does the mirror of your heart
reflect about having a generous spirit?

Tad and Pat Marshall had been married for twenty years. They
grieved that they couldn’t have children. They’d given up hope and
moved on, immersing themselves in ministry with the teens at
their church. I’d seen Pat’s sadness, so I began praying for a child
for them.
One day, the most amazing thing happened. A family member
of one of the girls in their youth group became pregnant. As a
young mom without any resources, she knew she couldn’t keep the
child. She asked if Tad and Pat would be willing to adopt the baby.
After getting over the shock and praying about it, they replied
with a resounding yes. Over the next months, they attended

66 67
 doctor appointments with the birth mom, and then the never-to- As Pat Marshall discovered, there’s no better cosmetic than a
be-forgotten moment arrived when their baby was born. face that reflects the joy of the Lord.
The day they brought their new son home from the hospital,
I drove to their house to meet little Tyler. As I walked in the door,
Dear Jesus, I want your beauty to shine from me, but I often
Pat was bent over the bassinet picking him up. She turned toward
make the wrong choices and end up spending the bulk of my
me with her tiny miracle in her arms, and my first thought was,
Joy is the best cosmetic in the world. time on me instead of you. Fill me with a resounding joy that
Pat glowed that day. I’d never seen will overflow my spirit, and fill my heart with your peace that

 her that beautiful. Sheer joy lit her eyes.

Her smile sparkled, and a soft blush of
happiness lit her face. Yes, it was definitely
surpasses understanding. Instead of beauty that will fade, let
these attributes be what I seek. Help others to see your joy in
me. Make me contagious. I want my life to sing your praises,
Joy is the the best cosmetic ever. to be a melody of joy to a world that needs to hear and see it.
best cosmetic We work so hard at our beauty Amen.
in the world. routines. Yet for most of us, when we look
in a mirror, we see our outward appearance
and we’re vastly disappointed as our flaws are magnified instead BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
of our good points. A bad hair or face day can often ruin an
otherwise good day. But here’s the thing about that: while we focus 1. Why do you spend so much time focusing on your outer
on the outward appearance, God looks at our hearts. appearance and so little time focusing on the inward
Our days would become much more victorious if we focused attributes that will make you truly beautiful?
on our hearts. How do we do that? Through finding joy. 2. How can joy be one of the best cosmetics?
Joy, peace, and confidence are some of our most attractive 3. What are two things you can do to share God’s joy with
attributes, and those traits are what will draw others to us and someone who needs to experience it?
ultimately to God. A great way to fill ourselves with joy is to start
by singing praise to God. Close your eyes and listen to the words.
Worship him.
Music lifts our souls, but we must have open and willing
hearts to feel the freedom. We should pray and specifically ask
God to fill us with joy. Then we need to find a way to be joyful
givers of the gifts God has given us to glorify him. We can allow
our outward appearance to reflect his love, joy, and peace because
that beauty is contagious.

68 69
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Sing a joy-filled song of praise. Sing it unto the Lord. Let the
words sink into your heart and mind, and then make a list of the
ways God has brought you joy. Chapter Fifteen

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART

Giving with Joy
Each of you should give what you have decided in
I AM your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion,
for God loves a cheerful giver.
JOYFUL. 2 Corinthians 9:7 niv

FROM THE BEAUTY KIT

What does the mirror of your The word joyful means happy and cheerful.
heart reflect about joy? Joy is contagious, especially when it comes from hearts
that are full of Jesus. The word giver describes someone
who gives or provides something or performs tasks
for someone else.

The missionary’s slide show stopped at one of the photos as he

shared a story. The Christmas before, someone had bought bottles
of soft drinks for the children at an orphanage in Malawi, and it
was such a special treat that the children made them last for days.
That story brought tears to Rhea’s eyes. The next Christmas,
and every year since, she has supplied soft drinks for the orphans
and staff. She and her husband went on to pay for Christmas

70 71
 dinner for the orphanage each year after that. guilt to our souls, but being obedient to those nudges will always
It’s their favorite Christmas gift to give and they do it joyfully. bring joy and blessing. There’s pure beauty in a woman who gives
One year when the missionary sent a photo of the group with their cheerfully and willingly.
plates of Christmas dinner, holding their bottles of soft drinks, it How we should give is also important. We should give as
made Rhea and her husband cry. if we were giving the gifts to the Lord. We should give without
When Teresa heard about a college student who didn’t have any expectation of getting anything in return except a big smile
money to buy food, she went to the store from Jesus in our hearts. It’s impossible to give with joy without

 and bought all that she thought he’d

need for his meals. To save his pride, she
dropped it by the church office and they
receiving joy in return.
A woman who gives with a heart full of joy will be beautiful to
her Savior and all who know her.
The simple fact called the young man to come in. It moved
that we have Teresa to tears when she heard that he
Lord, make me sensitive to those who need a helping hand.
something to cried as he saw all the bags of food that
When I’m selfish with what I have, remind me that all of it
give means were waiting for him.
Many years ago, Paula went to a small comes from you. Whether it’s my time, talents, or dollars, help
that God has me to give joyfully as unto you. Thank you for the ones who
church. When she noticed her pastor’s
blessed us with have given so much to me and my family, some of them giving
shoes had holes in the bottom, she bought
an abundance. him a new pair, wrapped them up, and sacrificially. Bless them for being a blessing to us, and help me
added a verse from Isaiah 52:7, “How to be a blessing to others. Give me eyes that see the needs of
lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good others, knees that will bend in prayer for those needs, and a
news.” She left the box sitting on his front porch. It made her smile heart that will put feet to my prayers as I share with joy from
the next Sunday when she saw him preaching with his shiny new the countless blessings you’ve given me. Amen.
shoes.
Friends, there is joy in giving—not just for the recipient,
but for those who do the giving as well. The simple fact that we BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
have something to give means that God has blessed us with an
abundance whether it’s time, talents, or money. 1. What are some specific ways God has blessed you?
Sometimes we resist when God asks us to give. At times, he 2. Why is how we give important?
asks us to give sacrificially or give up something that is precious 3. Why does giving with a joyful heart make a difference?
to us. That’s when we need to look deep into our souls to see if we
have selfish hearts that love ourselves more than others.
Denying God’s requests to give will always bring shame and

72 73
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Ask God to show you two people or ministries that have
needs. Ask him how he wants you to be part of supplying those
needs. Maybe it’s helping a ministry paint their offices, or sending Chapter Sixteen
a care package to missionaries. Perhaps it’s a monetary gift or
mentoring new brides or young moms. Give with joy, and then
watch God double your joy as you see the results of what you’ve True Beauty
given.
God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and
in still ministering to the saints.
Hebrews 6:10
I AM A
JOYFUL FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
giver. The word true describes something that is real.
The word beauty describes exceptional loveliness or
something that is pleasing and inspiring. The word serve
What does the mirror of your heart reflect describes the act of helping those in need.
when you give joyfully as unto the Lord?

Jacque Sexton was a beautiful woman by any standards. In

her younger years, she was petite with dark hair, fair skin, a lovely
figure, and sparkling blue eyes. Add her sweet smile and fun
personality, and she always stood out in a crowd. The passing of
years had frosted her hair white, a few pounds had crept on, and
smile lines had settled on her face, but she was still beautiful. She
wasn’t a blood relation, but in every way that mattered, Nana was
family to me.
Whenever I think of her, Nana’s beauty isn’t what usually
74 75
 comes to mind. I remember her warmth, the welcome and the beautiful. It’s a level playing field when it comes to having a
heartfelt hug that always waited on me whenever we were together. servant’s heart for others. That might include a simple smile
I remember talking to her about what was going on in my life and to someone having a hard day, kind words to a weary cashier,
receiving sage advice from a woman who’d spent her life chasing or loading packages into the trunk for someone with physical
after Jesus. I remember her laughter, her sense of mischief, and limitations. Perhaps it’s a hug for a friend going through a difficult
how much fun it was to be with her and time, giving a gift to encourage someone, raking the leaves for

 Poppie.
Most of all, I remember the way
she lived each day—with kindness and
a senior citizen, or spending quality time with someone who is
lonely.
You’ll never regret having a servant’s heart. God, and others,
True beauty is
compassion, with love for those whom will look at you and see a woman of truly exceptional beauty.
serving others. others would consider unlovable, and with
—Belle Winters the way she forgave people who wounded
The Farmer and
Father, there are so many people around me who need to feel
her deeply.
The Belle: Saving your love. Give me a servant’s heart and make me tender to
Santaland
Nana was a pastor’s wife who took her
role seriously, and she passed out love as the heartaches of those with whom I come in contact. I know
easily as she did heaping helpings of her oh-so-delicious dinners. that true beauty comes in serving others. Give me a spirit of
She had a servant’s heart, and helping others brought her as much compassion and a servant’s heart. Help me to minister to the
joy as she delivered to them. sick, to love those who are starving for someone to care. Make
When we put others first, the beauty of Jesus shines off us and me a hospital of hope to a world that needs it. Help my life
it’s contagious. to be a beautiful example of your love for us, and help me to
Jenn met a woman who’d been disfigured, but the joy of the always put you first. Amen.
Lord made her the most attractive woman she’d ever met. An
aesthetically pretty girl stood next to her, but over and over again,
Jenn watched as people were attracted to the disfigured girl. And BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
then it dawned on her. They were attracted to the sweetness of
Jesus that reflected from her as she served those around her. 1. How can you reflect the beauty of Jesus? Why do others
Both of these women had discovered something important: notice that?
true beauty is serving others with a joyful heart and doing it as 2. What is a servant’s heart, and how does that affect you and
unto the Lord. Both impacted others with their unconditional others?
love, pure hearts, and the fact that neither of them expected 3. What happens when you put Jesus first? How can that
anything in return. change your life?
Here’s the thing; some of us might never be outwardly

76 77
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Make a list of three people who need to have the love of Jesus
extended to them. Write down some specific ways you can have a
servant’s heart for them. Now do it! Afterwards, write down how it Chapter Seventeen
affected you and how it impacted them.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART Gifted for Glory

Each of you should use whatever gift you have
received to serve others, as faithful stewards
TRUE BEAUTY IS of God’s grace in its various forms.
SERVING 1 Peter 4:10 niv

OTHERS.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
What does the mirror of your heart The word gifts describes the talents or skills God has given us. The
word works refers to the efforts, acts, or labor that we do. Glory is
reflect about you serving others?
the honor and praise that we can bring to God through using the
gifts and talents he has built into us.

If you could see my cute friend, Carol, with her bubbly

personality and fashion flair, the last thing you’d ever imagine is
that the Bling Queen would do ministry at a men’s prison. But she
does. Her personality, warmth, and her love for God has enabled
her to reach the hearts of hardened criminals in a special way that
he designed just for her.
Nobody ever walked through the doors of Trinity Baptist and
felt unwelcome as long as Macie Bailey was around. This precious

78 79
 elderly lady met folks at the door each Sunday, wrapping each for a senior citizen who has trouble doing that anymore. Or maybe
person in a warm hug as she said, “I’m so glad you-uns are here you have social media or photography skills that you could use for
today!” Then she’d make her rounds, giving away hugs throughout a Christian ministry.
the congregation. Her love brought smiles, especially to first-time In the movie The Farmer and the Belle: Saving Santaland, the
visitors. Her God-given talent as a people-greeter was a blessing to lead character Belle Winters finds her family’s heirloom bracelet
all of us. she lost when she was a child and discovers true beauty is serving
For many years, my friend Dee Dee fixed homemade soup, others. There is an inscription on her bracelet’s charm that says,
packed it in Mason jars, and delivered it to “Use whatever gift you received to serve others.” “Make yourself

 sick friends, those with family members in

the hospital, folks who’d lost a loved one, or
anyone else who needed a little love. God
attractive by doing acts of love.” These words propel Belle to unveil
her talents with joy as she saves her childhood pen pal’s Santaland.
You see, whatever we do, when we do it as unto the Lord and
Whatever we gave her the gift of encouraging others. do it joyfully, it brings glory to God and blesses others. What
do, when we Girlfriends, these might not be big could be more special than using our talents to please God, and
do it as unto talents like being a Grammy Award- having a heart that is beautiful and willing to fulfill his purposes?
the Lord and winning singer or an accomplished artist,
do it joyfully, it but every gift God gives us is important to
Father, show me the gifts and talents you’ve given me, even the
his purposes, and if we don’t use those gifts
brings glory to things that seem so little that I’ve never considered them a gift
and talents, they go to waste.
him and blesses How can we joyfully give of our talents before. I’m humbled that you’ve blessed me with these things,
others. to serve others? It begins with identifying and I want to use all of them for you. Show me opportunities
what we’re good at. What are we passionate where I can serve. Make me sensitive to the needs of others.
about? What makes us smile? What do we enjoy? Let the beauty of Jesus flow through me and help me to use my
Some of you might be shaking your heads as you say, “I really gifts and talents to tell others about our amazing and loving
don’t have a talent.” I guarantee that you do. Maybe it’s making God. Help whatever I do to bring glory to you. Amen.
someone smile. Perhaps it’s bringing comfort and sharing God’s
precious promises with someone who’s hurting.
Can you cook? Teach a Sunday school class? Do mechanical BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
or household repairs for a single mom? Send cards of
encouragement to missionaries? Can you sing in the choir? Could 1. What are the talents you could use for God?
you use your writing or acting talents for God? Can you send 2. What individuals or ministries might need those talents?
money to buy gifts for an orphanage? Could you give your time to 3. How can using your talents bring glory to God?
be with someone who’s lonely? Perhaps you could clean a house

80 81
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Make a list of three talents or gifts God has given you. Spend
some time in prayer asking God how he wants you to use those for
him. Do three tasks using those talents, and then write down how Chapter Eighteen
it makes you feel. Somehow, whenever we do things for God, we’re
the ones who truly end up blessed.
Because I Love You
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
“A new commandment I give to you,
that you love one another, even as I have loved you,
USE WHATEVER that you also love one another.”
GIFT YOU HAVE John 13:34
RECEIVED TO
SERVE. FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word attractive describes someone or something that is
What does the mirror of your heart reflect when charming or lovely in a manner that draws people in.
you use your gifts and talents for the Lord? Acts of love are things done for others without any expectation
for payment or recognition.

The evening was momentous. My husband and I had headed

out for dinner and our weeknight date to do some shopping and
go to the grocery store. That wasn’t what was momentous, though.
What made the evening exceptional was that after I’d done
my makeup, flat-ironed my hair, and got dressed for our night out,
I looked in the mirror and uttered a surprised, “Wow, I actually
look pretty good today.” I’m talented when it comes to seeing all
my flaws, so I enjoyed walking out the door with my favorite guy

82 83
 while strains of “I Feel Good” floated through my head. hard to consider her husband’s needs above hers and find ways to
We finished the evening at the grocery store. Way down the serve. Folding clothes, making a snack, or providing something
aisle, I noticed a lady we’d known for many years. She’s about he needs fuels his love tank. Physical touch communicates love to
fifteen years younger than me, and I’ve always thought she was Jenn. When her husband puts a hand on her leg while they drive,
so pretty. But this night, she looked like it makes her feel loved.

 she was twenty years older than me. She

was hunched over, shuffling along as if she
could barely walk. I was stunned.
Friends, what could be more attractive than acts of love?
They’re guaranteed to never go out of style, and they will always
please the heart of God.
We can always A few minutes later, when we were
be attractive close enough to speak, she looked at me
Father, I take pleasure in the days I feel attractive. Help me to
when we’re and said, “Well, bless your heart, honey.
be more concerned about having a heart that’s attractive for
loving those You look like I feel.”
Oh, sweet mercy! I looked like that? you because that’s what will matter for eternity. Help me to
around us, love my family and friends, to search for what makes them feel
And here I’d thought I looked good.
doing it with loved, and to share that love joyfully to them as you have so
Let’s just say when I left the building that
joy to please evening, I was not the same confident gal often done for me. Help me to look for others who are starved
the Lord, and who went into the store. for someone to care about them, even when it’s sometimes
not expecting I laugh about it now. It truly was a difficult to love them. Remind me to do it for your glory and
any recognition funny moment. But you know what? All of not for me to get recognition or applause. Amen.
or payment in us will have days we don’t feel attractive.
When we’re having a bad hair day. Or a
return.
bad face day. Or even a bad body day. But BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
we can always be attractive when we’re
loving those around us, doing it with joy to please the Lord, and 1. How can you pay attention when God nudges you to show
not expecting to gain recognition in return. love to someone?
We can serve with joy when we pay attention to God’s nudges. 2. Why are acts of love attractive?
He might put someone on our hearts, or we might take time to 3. Why is it important to serve others with joy?
discover what makes our family or friends feel loved. We could
give them a thoughtful gift, spend time with them, say the words
they need to hear, or even encourage them with a hug.
Jenn’s husband likes acts of service. This is the farthest thing
away from how Jenn’s brain responds. So, she has to think extra

84 85
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Ask God to put three people on your heart this week. Identify
what makes them feel special, and then do an act of love for each
of them. After you’ve done that, spend some quiet time with God
and ask him this question, “Lord, what can I do for you that will I AM OBEDIENT
make you feel loved?”
to My Calling
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible,
but with God all things are possible.”
MAKE YOURSELF Matthew 19:26 esv
ATTRACTIVE BY DOING
ACTS OF LOVE. I am courageous.
I am obedient to my calling.
What does the mirror of your heart reflect God gives me talents for his glory.
about your acts of love toward others? With God all things are possible.
God has plans to prosper me.
God has plans not to harm me.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 niv

86 87
 A while back, my publicist emailed with news that I was
booked for a nationwide television show (with my co-author).
It was a wonderful opportunity, but my first thought was, Yikes!
Chapter Nineteen What will I wear? I’ve discovered something as I’ve done television
appearances: there are different looks to various shows. Some are
extra dressy, some require business attire,
Woman of Courage and some are more casual.
This appearance would be the 
expensive jeans and lovely top style. I set
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do out on a frantic search in our small town It’s only when
not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with and found nothing. I started to panic. we take that
you wherever you go.” The time was short and I had nothing to first scary step
Joshua 1:9 wear that was just right for this show. Fear of faith that we
started creeping in. You see, I’ve found that
can become
feeling like I look nice gives me courage
and confidence. the beautiful
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT creation God
I did what I should have done much
The word courage describes the trait of doing something we are sooner. I prayed and said, “God will you desires for us.
afraid of, stepping out in faith into uncertain circumstances. please help me find something that I will
The word strong denotes a person who can carry heavy objects feel nice in?” My husband and I drove to a larger town, walked
or someone who is tough emotionally. The word confident reflects into a store, and the first top I saw was exactly what I’d hoped to
a person’s self-assurance or their trust in their own find. And they had the perfect jeans in my size.
or someone else’s abilities. A few weeks later, backed by prayer, armed with Jesus and my
“just right” outfit, I had the courage and confidence to do the task
God had called me to do.
My favorite place in public is on the back row. Being in front Courage is something we all need as we walk through life. We
of people used to make me break out in a cold sweat. (You know, need it to overcome life’s difficulties, fears, and uncertainties. We
the horizontally-challenged thing, and the lack of fashion, and need courage as we step forward into the unknown. Remember
the bad hair… I could go on and on.) So wouldn’t you know Peter’s fears when he stepped out of the boat, stood on water, and
it, being in the public eye is exactly where God has placed me. walked to Jesus? That took courage, but his trust in Jesus made the
I’ve sometimes been so far out of my comfort zone I’ve been in difference.
another comfort country! Sweet friends, sometimes God asks us to do things for him

88 89
that fill us with fear. We don’t see how we can possibly do them. GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
We worry about all the things we’ll need, or that we won’t have the
What do you need courage to do? Envision Jesus doing it with
funding or the strength to do them. And we allow fear to keep us
you. Then make a list with two columns. In the first column, list
from accomplishing the tasks God has for us to do.
the things that make you fearful or worried as you start to step out
If God calls us to do something, he will equip us with all that
in faith. In the second column, list all the times in the Bible where
we need. He will bless our efforts, and he will be with us for every
it says that God failed.
moment of the journey.
It’s only when we take that first scary step of faith that we can
become the beautiful creation God desires for us. Will you take THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
the first step for him today, courageous friend?

Father, I want to serve you, I want to be faithful, but I’m I AM

afraid. Next time fear tingles throughout my body, help me to
remember that I am not alone—that you are with me. Remind COURAGEOUS.
me that fear is false evidence that just appears real, but that
you have come to cast out all fear. Give me the courage and
confidence to step out in faith and to chase the dreams you
have for me. God, more than anything, I want to be the What does the mirror of your heart reflect
beautiful woman you want me to be, and I want to fulfill the about you becoming courageous?
plans you have for me. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. How has fear kept you from stepping out in faith?
2. Why is prayer so important as you step out in faith to
chase your dreams for God?
3. How can faith in God and courage equip you to become
the beautiful woman of faith God desires you to be?

90 91
 Girlfriends, aren’t we the world’s worst when it comes to
having crazy expectations for ourselves? And then there’s that
seemingly perfect Proverbs 31 woman in the Bible that we have to
Chapter Twenty live up to. What’s a gal to do?
After studying that Proverbs 31
woman, I discovered all of us could be like
Obedient to
a Calling
her if we were willing to be obedient to
what God calls us to do. First, she’s a good
wife. Her husband trusts her because she

God will be
does good things for him instead of evil your provider,
ones.
He said, “On the contrary, blessed are those so step out
Second, she’s a willing worker. This
who hear the word of God and observe it.” woman isn’t lazy. She cares for her family, in faith and
Luke 11:28 nasb even when it requires rising early and confidence.
staying up late. And she cares for the poor
and needy.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT Third, she uses her talents and skills. She plants a vineyard.
The word obedient means to have a respectful and submissive She’s a seamstress. And a merchant.
spirit that is willing to comply. The word calling refers to a Fourth, she wears strength and honor like clothing. She’s a
profession or mission that we’re passionate about, in this instance, woman of wisdom, her tongue expresses kindness, and she fears
something that God has asked us to do. the Lord.
Because of all that, her children call her “blessed” and her
husband praises her. I imagine God is pleased as well because she
was obedient to her calling. She discovered that God is the one
When I was first married, I had some lofty goals. I’d keep a who takes our ordinary and changes it into extraordinary.
spotless house, serve delightful meals, finish all my work, and What is your calling? The best place to start is in prayer
would still look pretty and be charming every day when my asking God to show you his unique design planned just for you.
husband arrived home. It didn’t take long for those unrealistic Then take a look at the skills and talents he has given you: those
expectations to crash like Humpty Dumpty from his wall, things that come naturally to you. What are your interests? Your
especially when children arrived. After the babies came, there were passions? How can you use those to glorify him?
some days where combing my hair became a big accomplishment. Consider journaling to help you sort it out. Once you’ve
With the exhaustion and lack of time, I was anything but pretty. prayed and spent some quiet time with God, make a list of what

92 93
you hear or feel from your prayer time, or the things he points out GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
to you in his Word. God will show you the purpose he has for you.
Make a list of your talents. God gave those to you and he has
The next step is moving out in faith to fulfill his calling for
a reason for everything he does. Now make a list of your passions:
you. You won’t be the Proverbs 31 woman, but you can learn
the things that make your eyes light up when you talk about them.
from her. God wants you. If you’ll be faithful to him and what he
Finally, make a list of how these passions and talents could be used
has called you to do, you can have just as much impact on your
to glorify God and to fulfill your calling.
spouse, family, friends, and community, and just as big a testimony
as she did. What could be more beautiful than that?
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
Dear Lord, I want to please you but I’m not sure what you
want me to do with my life. Show me the perfect plan you have I AM
for me. Remove my fear and doubts and give me a road map
to guide me on my way. Give me joy for the journey. I want OBEDIENT TO
to be obedient to what you call me to do and to fulfill that MY CALLING.
calling in a manner that will make you proud. Make my life a
daily testimony of your faithfulness, and help me to someday
stand in front of you to hear the words, “Well done, my good
and faithful servant. You used every scrap of the talents I gave What does the mirror of your heart reflect
you.” Amen. when you are obedient to your calling?

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. What can you learn from the Proverbs 31 woman?
2. How can you discover what God has called you to do?
3. How does being obedient to your calling affect you and
others?

94 95
 mom from the country. Nobody knows who I am.” The excuses
continued.
Not long before this, God had called me to write for him. I’d
Chapter Twenty-One never even considered writing, and now

No Excuses
I found myself in the bookstore using
every excuse I could find to get out of it. I
discovered that God had an answer for all

my excuses: “I’m not beautiful like her. Not Okay, Lord,
a problem, then they’ll notice me. “I can’t I get it now.
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, write like this talented author.” I already You didn’t
as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. have one of him. I need one of you and I call me to be
1 Peter 4:10 nkjv have equipped you with everything you need successful, you
to write for me. “Nobody knows who I am.”
called me to be
Well, they know who I am, and they need to
know more about me. faithful.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The difference in my attitude about
The word gift describes something that is given without having my writing came when I took the focus off me and put it on him.
to pay for it. The word talent refers to the gifts God has given like When I knelt beside my couch and prayed, “Okay, Lord, I get
a beautiful voice, writing or acting skills, a faithful prayer life, it now. You didn’t call me to be successful, you called me to be
the ability to encourage, or many other things. The word glory faithful.” I realized that a willing heart was all he wanted from me,
describes the act of giving the praise, attention, and that He’d take care of the rest. I could use my talents for his
and credit to someone. glory by giving them all to him.
This is where the trust factor comes in. Sometimes we have to
step out in faith as if walking on a tightrope with our eyes on Jesus.
If we look away, we’ll get wobbly, but as long as we keep our eyes
A number of years ago, I had a panic moment as I walked on him, we’ll find the peace, provision, and strength that we need.
through a large bookstore. I removed a book from the shelf and There’s something else important to think about. Who are you
pointed to the photo of the author on the back cover. “Lord, I can’t doing things for? Do you want man’s favor and praise or would
do what you’re asking. I’m not beautiful like her.” The conversation you rather glorify God? Keep your eyes on him and remember
continued down the aisle as I pulled out more books. “God, this that every bit of talent you have is a gift from God.
author is so talented. There’s no way I can write like him.” And Today would be the perfect time to take that first scary step
with the next book, “And she’s so well-known. I’m a wife and of faith. Wouldn’t it be a shame for the talents that God gave you

96 97
to go to waste? What could be better than becoming a beautiful GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
reflection of Jesus by using the talents that he gave you? Let him
Envision the throne of God and imagine him watching to see
use your efforts so others can discover just how amazing he is.
if you will use your talents for him. Will you bring joy to his face?
Make a list of the talents he has given you and then make a list of
Father, help me be a faithful steward of the gifts and talents how you can use those for his glory.
you’ve given me. Thank you for providing all that I need and
for equipping me for each task you’ve assigned. Remind me THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
to use my talents for your glory instead of mine. Lord, I know
that all talents are important to you, whether it’s teaching a
class, being a prayer warrior for others, acting in a movie,
wiping little noses in the church nursery, or writing a book. GOD GIVES
Help me to hold on to the hope of your promises, knowing you TALENTS FOR
have plans to prosper me and not to harm me. Help me to be a
woman of beautiful faithfulness for you. Amen.
HIS GLORY.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE What does the mirror of your heart reflect

1. Why is it so scary to step out in faith?
about using your talents for God?
2. Why is the first step important?
3. What talents has God given to you? How can you use those
talents for him?

98 99
 let me have lines.” And then, since she’d been cast as a background
actor with no lines, she muttered, “Yeah, right. That’s impossible.”
Conviction hit her then, so she almost jokingly said, “With
Chapter Twenty-Two God all things are possible. If you want me to have lines, Lord, it’s
in your hands.” She let go of that prayer as a balloon with helium
releases into the air. Four hours later, she
All Things Possible was on set and the director asked if she’d
like to say something in the scene. She 
was no longer an extra, but considered
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, principal cast and invited to eat lunch with God loves it
but with God all things are possible.” the cast to prepare for the next scene in the when our faith
Matthew 19:26 niv restaurant. exceeds our
When you watch the movie, you’ll see fears.
her hands in the Officers Club scene when
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT the waitress (her character) approaches the table of main actors,
and you’ll hear her lines. The exact answer to the prayer she’d
The word possible means something within reach, something muttered.
achievable. The word impossible describes something that isn’t I suspect all of us look at situations in our lives as impossible.
going to happen, something that’s so ridiculous and unachievable God whispers that he wants us to do something for him, and the
there isn’t any hope of it happening. The word all means first words out of our mouths are, “That’s not possible. There’s
everything or the entirety or totality of something. no way that will happen.” We limit God by looking at our limited
abilities instead of focusing on his limitless abilities.
When God says something more than once in the Bible, he
obviously wants us to pay attention to it. He does that several
My sweet friend, Jenn, is beautiful inside and out. One of times as he tells us that all things are possible with him, and
the things I’ve been privileged to watch is the beauty of her being nothing is impossible.
obedient to the calling God has placed on her heart. Do you believe the truth God tells us in his Word—the
A while back Jenn was cast in the movie Hulk filming in San instruction manual he left for us? When we surrender and put our
Francisco. God spoke to her the night before filming began at a hearts, tears, and peers into his hands, we can soar for him.
worship service: “With God all things are possible.” God loves it when our faith exceeds our fears. He doesn’t want
The next morning as she drove to the set, Jenn prayed, “God, us to doubt or worry or have anything that takes us away from
let me be a light on set. Let me love others like you love me, and being intimate with him. How do we do this? We pray. We ask

100 101
God for bigger faith. And we replace each fearful lie with his truth, GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
“With God all things are possible.”
What are some big tasks you want to accomplish for God?
Take those first steps of faith. Surrender the desires of your
Make a list. Start praying about specific requests for each of those
heart into God’s hands. Ask him what you need to do and then
tasks and write them down on your list. At the top of the list, write
trust him. Step out with courage and confidence because your
With God All Things Are Possible. Every few months, go back and
strength is found in God and all things are possible when he’s in
look at your list and requests. You will be amazed, and your faith
control.
will be bolstered, when you see what God has done.

Dear Lord, I look at some of the big dreams I want to THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
accomplish for you, and then the doubts and fears take over.
Give me a beautiful faith. Cast out all my doubts and let me
stand on your holy ground in the truth that with you all things WITH GOD
are possible. I give you my heart’s desires, my wants, and my ALL THINGS
fears. Give me the boldness and courage to move into your
calling for my life. Make the path clear and help me to follow
ARE POSSIBLE.
in your footsteps throughout each day. I can and will succeed
because you are in charge and you have never failed me.
Amen. What does the mirror of your heart reflect
when you truly realize that nothing is
impossible for God?
BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. What are some seemingly impossible situations in your
life?
2. Why do you focus on your limited abilities instead of God’s
limitless ones?
3. How can your faith exceed your fears?

102 103
 Sometimes we become discontented with the blessings that
God has given us, or we even fail to see those blessings. And at
times, some of us might have even complained, moaned, groaned,
Chapter Twenty-Three or had a prolonged pity party.
At times, we don’t feel worthy of

Made Prosperous
having God prosper us, but we are his
beloved children and that makes us
valuable and worthy.

The truth is that God wants us to At the end of
“The Lord your God will make you most prosperous in all prosper. The Bible even says that he our lives, even
the work of your hands and in the fruit of your womb, the delights in us just as he delighted in our if our bank
young of your livestock and the crops of your land. The Lord ancestors. It says that just like a father loves accounts don’t
will again delight in you and make you prosperous, just as he to give to his children, he enjoys giving end with lots
delighted in your ancestors.” us good gifts. God loves for us to bring of zeroes, we
Deuteronomy 30:9 niv our needs and dreams to him. When our
can look back
requests reflect a desire to do things for
him, it touches his heart. at a life spent
It doesn’t necessarily mean we’re with Jesus and
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
going to become financially wealthy, thin, know that we
The word plans describes the process of conceiving ideas and beautiful, or have folks hanging on our have been truly
developing strategies to implement them. The word prosper refers every word, but it does mean that he will
to occasions when we are successful, thrive, or become wealthy. wealthy, and
bless the work of our hands, our families,
that he has
and our lives. He often does it in ways that
will surprise and astound us. Just as it does blessed and
an earthly father, it gives God joy to see prospered us
If we’re honest, most of us have had a time or two when we us happy. We can bring all our requests to beyond words.
were envious of what someone else had. We see the beautiful him because his resources are limitless.
jetsetters in their designer fashions with expensive purses. We read There’s a reason for God to prosper us: so we can serve
about their trips to exotic locations, their glamorous lifestyles, or him more. When he blesses our families, he gives us peace and
even the prestige or attention they receive because of their wealth, happiness in our homes and plants his love and character in the
and then we go back to the drudgery of our days as we juggle jobs, lives of our children. There truly is no greater joy than to see our
laundry, family, bills, and a gazillion other things. children serving God and to serve alongside them. A beautiful

104 105
woman of faith with a family who loves the Lord is wealthy GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
indeed.
What are some areas of your life where you’d like to prosper?
When God blesses us financially, we can give more to
Make a list. Make a second list of how you can use those things
missions and to church, and we can help others who are going
for God. Spend some time in prayer bringing your requests before
through difficult times. There’s a sweet delight when we can help
your Father who loves you and delights in making you prosperous.
others, and often we get more out of it than they do.
When God blesses us with prestige or public honor, it’s a way
for us to tell others about our amazing God, how he has blessed us, THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
and about the difference he has made in our lives. It’s for his glory.
At the end of our lives, even if our bank accounts don’t end
with lots of zeroes, we can look back at a life spent with Jesus and GOD HAS
know that we have been truly wealthy, and that he has blessed and
prospered us beyond words. PLANS TO
PROSPER ME.
Dear Father, it humbles me that you want me to prosper.
Sometimes I neglect to really stop and think about the
abundance of the gifts, talents, relationships, and eternal life
that you have given me. Just the fact that you love me makes What does the mirror of your heart reflect
me rich. You’ve made me wealthy in all the ways that really when you realize God wants you to prosper?
matter, and there are no words to express my gratitude. Help
me to understand the depth of your magnificent love for me,
and help me to use the blessings that you give me for things
that truly matter. Amen.

BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Why do you sometimes fail to see the blessings God has
given you?
2. What are some of the ways God has made you wealthy?
3. How can prosperity be used for God?

106 107
 competition, it’s serious—the culmination of thousands of dollars
and months of work. Each of them has had a plan. They’ve
exercised and dieted so their figures will
Chapter Twenty-Four be as perfect as possible. There have been
intense searches for evening gowns that
are flattering and have the wow factor.

God Has Plans The women have practiced hairstyles and
makeup numerous times to achieve just
If we’ll serve
him faithfully
the right look. They’ve had mock question- throughout
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, and-answer sessions to prepare for those all our days,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, moments. And they’ve practiced their we just might
plans to give you hope and a future.” talent until they could do it while sleeping. receive a crown
Jeremiah 29:11 niv One thing has always fascinated me as in the best
I’ve watched the programs: there’s usually
pageant ever
one woman whose sweetness is apparent
throughout the evening. Some have gotten for a heart that
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT is beautiful.
vain during the process, and it’s evident
The word harm refers to wounding, damaging, hurting, or in their demeanor. There’s a side of the
destroying someone or something. pageant that isn’t seen on TV: the display of jealousy behind the
scenes. On occasion, makeup or clothing is sabotaged in hopes of
ruining the chances of another contestant.
It’s hard to believe that a woman would try to harm someone
I’ve loved to watch beauty pageants since I was a child. The just to be successful in winning the crown, but that’s what happens
evening gowns are breathtaking. And the swimsuit competition? when inner beauty isn’t there to match physical beauty.
How do they walk with such confidence in a bathing suit and Dear friends, most of us will never win a beauty competition,
four-inch heels? The talent section can get interesting as women but we can seek to become exquisite for God. Just as those
perform a variety of acts. Stress levels often rise as the beauty contestants worked hard to be their best on pageant day, we must
queens respond to questions they are given without advance time do so spiritually. We’ll need a steady diet of God’s Word and time
to prepare. Some give wise and witty replies, and others have the in prayer so our hearts can become lovely, and we’ll need to use
deer-in-the-headlights look as they search their minds for wisdom our talents so they are a wonderful display for God.
that seems to have evaporated. When we search diligently for Jesus, we’ll find him, and then
The pageant is fun to watch, but for the women in the we can model a garment of his grace and mercy for others. When

108 109
we allow him to give us the words to say, we’ll never have to worry GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
about giving the wrong answers.
Make a plan today for what you need to do to become the
And, unlike those beauty contestants, there’s one thing we’ll
spiritual beauty God desires. Do you need to pray, read his Word,
never have to concern ourselves with: God will not try to harm
or share his love more? Do you need to get rid of excess baggage
us along the way because he wants us to be successful. If we serve
that is weighing down your heart? Make your list and then choose
him faithfully throughout our days, we just might receive a crown
three things to start with today.
in the best pageant ever for a heart that is beautiful.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART

Dear Jesus, sometimes I feel like the ugly duckling at the
beauty pageant when it comes to serving you. I look at other
women who are doing great things for you and I fall so short. GOD HAS
But I realize that you didn’t call me to be them, you called me
to be me, and I want to be the best that I can be for you. How PLANS NOT TO
precious to know that you will never do anything to harm HARM YOU.
me, but you want to prosper me as I seek to serve you. More
than anything, my heart desires for you to look at me and see
a woman with a heart of exquisite beauty. Help me to live
faithfully for you through every day of my life. Amen. What does the mirror of your heart reflect
when you realize God’s plans are
not meant to harm you?
BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Why does God want you to be successful?
2. Why do you never have to worry about God harming you?
3. The beauty contestants had a plan. Why do you need a
plan when it comes to serving Jesus?

110 111
 OPEN MY Chapter Twenty-Five

Heart
An Open Heart
Give me your heart, my son, and let your eyes
Give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.
delight in my ways.
Proverbs 23:26 nkjv
Proverbs 23:26

Open my heart. FROM THE BEAUTY KIT

Jesus, my friend. The word open describes a situation where we are unguarded
or emotionally approachable, where a door is unfastened or
Jesus, my Savior. unlocked, or the act of starting or beginning something
Help me comprehend such as a new venture.
your love for me.
Help me grasp how wide, long,
high, and deep your love is for me. Imagine that you’re getting ready to leave your house for
church or that you’re about to walk out the door for a big date.
I am beautiful for your purpose. You look in the mirror and notice your hair is sticking straight out
on one side or your lipstick has smeared onto your teeth. Do you
ignore it and walk out the door? No, you fix it before you leave.
We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good Picture yourself walking through a big mall. You pass by a
works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. large plate-glass mirror and realize your shirt is on inside out, then
Ephesians 2:10 niv
you look down and see that you have on one navy shoe and one
black shoe, and you’ve been out in public like that all day. Your
friend has been with you and she didn’t say a word. I don’t know

112 113
 about you, but I’d smack her on the arm and say, “Why didn’t you When our hearts are filled to overflowing with Jesus, he can
tell me I looked like this? You’re supposed to be my friend!” groom us to do great and mighty things for him.
Most of us have something inside us that makes us want to fix
things when they’re messed up. We care about what other people
Dear Jesus, there have been times when I’ve closed my heart to
think and we worry that others will believe we look stupid or ugly.
you. I’ve shut you out because I wanted my own way because
But sometimes we’re not quite so
of my fears or because I didn’t want to do what you asked me
 diligent when it comes to our inner beauty.
Something the pastor says shines a light
on a spot on our heart: a soiled place that
to do. I’ve discovered I don’t like the way that makes me feel.
Open my heart, Lord. Give me the faith and courage to trust
When our needs to be cleaned. But we just brush his again. Let me see your glory with fresh eyes. Let me feel your
hearts are filled words off and go on with what we’re doing. peace, joy, and grace. Fill my heart to overflowing so I can
to overflowing We read our Bibles and see things that be beautiful for you. Open my heart to others so I respond to
with Jesus, he need to be fixed, and we just ignore them. them with your love and mercy. Amen.
can groom us Or maybe God sends conviction about
to do great and something he has asked us to quit doing
mighty things
and we pay no attention to that still small BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
voice.
for him. We shut our ears. We ignore the one 1. Why do you sometimes close your heart to God?
who loves us most, the one who wants 2. Why does he want you to open your heart to him?
what is best for us. When we do that, we close off our hearts to 3. How does it make you feel when you close your heart to
him. Maybe it’s time for us to care more about what Jesus thinks. God? How do you feel when you open it to him?
He stands there saying, “Let me in. I can fix what’s bothering
you.” But we pay no attention to him. He says, “I can take care of
the fears and the pain that are suffocating you.” But we don’t trust
him. He says, “I can forgive your transgressions.” But we think
we’re too bad for him to love us.
It’s hard to do much with a closed-off heart, but Jesus, our best
friend, says, “I see things you need to change. Open your heart to
me, precious child. Let me in and I can fix the flaws. Let me in and
I’ll erase the painful things of your past. Let me in and I can fill
your heart with so much love that you can’t contain it. Let me in
and I can give you hope and a future.”

114 115
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Set aside some time to pray. Say these words, “God, my heart
is open to you. I want to listen to you today. Show me what I need
to fix in my life. Show me what you want me to do. Show me how Chapter Twenty-Six
I can draw closer to you.” Sit and make a list as God speaks to your
heart.
A Beautiful Friend
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is
a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24 nkjv
OPEN MY
HEART. FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word friend describes someone who is close to a person and
for whom there is love and affection. The word Jesus describes the
Son of God, the one who sticks closer than a brother,
What does the mirror of your heart reflect and the one who loves us so much that he gave his life
when you ask God to open your heart? on the cross in our place.

I was born without any fashion sense. None. Nada. Zip. Zilch.
So shopping can be a bit stressful as I try on outfit after outfit
without confidence that any of it looks good on me, especially
since I’m (ahem) horizontally-challenged.
That’s why I love to take friends shopping with me: extra
opinions are always helpful. I’ve discovered something along the
way—some friends are better to take shopping than others. I have
friends who will tell me outfits look good because they don’t want

116 117
 to hurt my feelings, and then I get home with clothing that I’ll cared for us. We need to love him more than we love ourselves,
maybe wear once or twice (usually until I see myself wearing it in to surrender our all to him, knowing that placing our lives in his
a picture and realize that it’s not the least bit flattering). The item hands is the safest place to be. We can trust God with everything
will then hang in my closet until I make a trip to drop things off at because he is a friend who will never let us down.
a local resale shop. Jesus is the most beautiful and special friend we’ll ever have.
I like to take one particular friend with me when I go More than anything, I want to be a beautiful, faithful friend to
shopping. She has great fashion sense, but him. Don’t you?


more importantly, she is honest with me.
She tells me when things don’t look good,
Jesus, you are my dearest friend. Help me to grasp how deep
when they do, and she makes suggestions
We can trust your love is for me. You’ve been my friend through good times
for accessories. She is honest with me
because she loves me and I appreciate that. and bad, and I can’t imagine walking through life without
God with
Besides that, she has been my you. Help me to feel your presence closer to me each day. I
everything
encourager through the years. She has want to see you in a new way, and I want my life and soul to
because he is a be divinely beautiful for you. Thank you for always carrying
prayed for and with me, walked through
friend who will difficult days with me, celebrated good the pain and stresses of my day, for holding my hand and
never let times with me, loved me enough to give providing comfort whenever I need you. I love you, and I’m so
us down. me tough love when needed, and been grateful you’re my friend. Amen.
a faithful friend for over fifty years. She
has been wonderful, but I have one friend that is even better than
her—Jesus. BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
It boggles my mind that the God of the world wants to be
our friend and that he wants to stay close to us. He is our friend. 1. Why is it important to have a friend who’s honest with
Our Savior. The lover of our soul. He brings us peace during you? How does that also apply to God?
troubled days, forgives us when we don’t deserve it, provides what 2. What does it mean to you to have Jesus as your friend?
we need, speaks truth to our hearts, keeps us safe, and is with us 3. How can you be a good friend to him and how can you
every moment of every day. He thinks we’re beautiful, and we are, allow him to take the lead in your friendship?
because we’re made in his image.
With his friendship comes responsibility. This is a two-way
relationship. Just as he listens patiently to us, we need to make
time to listen to his sweet whispers to our soul. We need to read
his Word: his love letter to us. We need to care for others as he has

118 119
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Think of a friend who has been there for you and send a
thank-you note. Make a list of ways that God has been a good
friend to you, then thank him for all that he has done, and ask him Chapter Twenty-Seven
to make you a more beautiful friend for him each day.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART Limp Hair

This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all
people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
JESUS, 1 Timothy 2:3-4 niv

MY FRIEND.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word savior describes someone who saves people from
What does the mirror of your heart reflect dangerous things or life-threatening moments. The capitalized
about having Jesus as your friend? word Savior describes Jesus, who gave his life for ours.

I am sometimes a bit OCD about my hair and makeup. Part

of it is due to insecurity because of things I lived through in my
childhood. And part of it is because I’m scary-looking until I
put my face on and tame my hair. Just ask my young grandson
who spent the night with us. When we got up the next morning,
he took one look at me and said, “Grandmama, your hair looks
crazy—like a wild animal.” Oh, the honesty of children!
Now that you know these important facts about me, you’ll
understand why I was a bit upset about something that happened
while I was away for a speaking engagement. I’d shampooed my

120 121
hair the morning I left. Since I’d just be there overnight, I figured to give us an unexplainable peace for every situation we face. Then
I wouldn’t need to wash it again the next morning, so I left my when he has brought us out on the other side from our difficult
blow dryer at home. I was staying with my dear friends, Carl and circumstances, he wants us to tell others about him even if we have
Donnalynn and figured I could use hers if I needed one. to stand in front of a crowd and do it with limp hair.
All was going well the next morning until I accidentally
soaked my hair in the shower. I got dressed
Dear Jesus, I worry so much about looking beautiful (or not
and went to ask Donnalynn if I could
 borrow her blow dryer.
Then my panic moment arrived. She
beautiful) in my outward appearance. Yet I rarely think about
wanting others to see a beautiful spirit in me that will help
them to see you. God, open my heart to you. I want to listen
I heard God said, “I don’t have one. I air-dry my hair.”
whisper to My hair is baby fine, and if I don’t dry it, it’s to you today. Remind me that it’s not about me. It truly is all
limp as can be. Carl graciously offered his about you. Thank you for being my Savior, my best friend, and
my soul: “It’s
Shop Vac to blow my hair, but I suspected my provider. Make yourself real to me today so I’ll walk with
not about you
that would cause even more problems. you as you guide each step that I take. Make me a bright and
today, it’s I dried it as best I could with my shining light for you, a woman of divine beauty whose life will
about me.” fingers, and then I heard God whisper to be a daily witness of a precious Savior and his amazing love.
my soul, “It’s not about you today, it’s about Amen.
me.” Whew. I’d been worried about my audience’s eyes being on
me, when I needed to be more worried about them being on Jesus.
I went to speak that day with limp hair and a desire for them BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
to see Jesus as I spoke about how He’d saved me from the pits of
hell, how he wants to be our Savior, how He’d been there to offer 1. Do you sometimes focus on yourself more than you focus
comfort whenever I needed it, his loving presence wrapping on Jesus?
around me like a hug from heaven. 2. How can moments from your past sometimes derail you as
I shared about the painful moments of my childhood, you seek to tell others about Jesus?
and how their ministry would help children wounded by 3. What has your Savior done for you?
circumstances and by those who should have been loving and kind
to them.
Jesus wants us to give him the memories that haunt us, the
words that ring true but are false, the lies that are swarming in our
brains. He wants to be the Savior of broken relationships, to take
away our negativity, and to teach us about forgiveness. He desires

122 123
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
There’s no greater gift than a Savior who loves you so much he
gave his life for you. Think of two people who need to hear about
Jesus. Pray for them first, and then reach out and tell them the Chapter Twenty-Eight
most beautiful news ever.

THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART No Limits

That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and
that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to
JESUS, comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length
and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ.
MY SAVIOR. Ephesians 3:17-19

FROM THE BEAUTY KIT

What does the mirror of your heart reflect The word grasp means to grab hold or to have an understanding
about having Jesus as your Savior? of something. The word wide refers to something that is extensive.
The word long describes something lengthy. The word high
describes something of extraordinary height. The word deep refers
to something that is bottomless.

The two photos on my computer screen were startling. The

first picture was of a young woman with wavy hair and a cute
figure. Her skin was clear and glowing. She had that healthy girl-
next-door prettiness that you’d notice in a crowd, and her zest for
life radiated from the picture.
The second photo of the woman was about ten years later, and

124 125
 it made my jaw drop. She looked forty years older. Her once-lovely us, “I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor
hair was limp. The woman’s leathery skin was pale and marked principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
with sores, and her eyes were jaded. Her slumped shoulders gave nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able
testimony to her defeated spirit, and her figure was so emaciated to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our
that it looked like skin had been stretched Lord.”
across her bones. Meth and other drugs Receiving God’s love and forgiveness isn’t where the story
 had taken a heavy toll, and they’d taken her
far from the faith that had once been part
ends for us. Once we’ve encountered that love, we have a
responsibility to tell others about it. Our world so desperately
God’s love is of her life. needs God’s love. What could be more beautiful than a woman
so wide, long, Many people would look at her and who reaches out to others to share the fantastic news that there’s a
high, and deep write her off as a hopeless loser, but Jesus God who loves them?
looked at her through his rose-colored
that we can’t
glasses of grace and said, “I still love you,
grasp it, but no Dear Father, help me to truly grasp how wide, high, long, and
my daughter. I know what you once were. I
matter what deep your love is for me. I have trouble wrapping my mind
see what you are now. I know that my love
we do, we can and mercy are enough to draw you away around something so amazing. I’m so grateful that you’re a
never out-run it. from the drugs and back to me. There is God who changes lives. Thank you for changing mine. Thank
nothing that you can do that will make me you for your grace and forgiveness. Father, sometimes I’m my
stop loving you.” own worst critic. I look at myself and wonder how you could
God’s love is so wide, long, high, and deep that we can’t grasp possibly love someone as messed up as me, but you do. Help
it, but no matter what we do, we can never out-run it. It’s a love so me to look at others through your eyes, and help me to share
profound that he sent his only Son to face a brutal death on the the beautiful message of your love. Amen.
cross for us. Jesus did it willingly, and you were on his mind.
We might not have messed up our lives with drugs, but all of
us have sinned and done wrong. All of us have grieved the heart BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
of God. When we come to him and say, “I’m sorry, and I want you
to be my Savior and Lord,” he is waiting for us with outstretched 1. Why do you need God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness?
arms. 2. How can God’s love change you?
Friend, do you need to do that today? 3. What is God’s response when you come to him and ask
It’s impossible to wrap our finite minds around the forgiveness?
complexity of God’s love, but we can be secure in it. We don’t
have to worry that he’ll ever stop loving us. Romans 8:38-39 tells

126 127
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
Stop and truly think about the four words: wide, high, long,
and deep. Search your heart for how these words provide security
about God’s love for you, then ask God to place three people on Chapter Twenty-Nine
your heart (or in your path) who need to hear about his limitless
love.
A God Who Loves
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
We have known and believed the love that God has for us.
HELP ME GRASP
God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God,
HOW WIDE, LONG, and God in him.
HIGH, AND DEEP I John 4:16 nkjv
God’s love
is for me.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
The word love describes the emotion of having deep feelings for
How does it affect the mirror of your heart someone or something. The word master denotes someone who is
when you truly understand the limitless depth exceptionally skilled at a task.
of God’s love for you?

Have you ever had a professional do your makeup or hair?

I had a friend who was an artist when it came to that. I needed
some new author photos, and by the time my friend finished my
makeup and my hair, I looked so much better than my normal
me that I was afraid people wouldn’t recognize me when I went
to teach at conferences. Either that, or they’d think, Wow, she has
really gone downhill since she had those photos taken.
Jenn did a modeling campaign in China awhile back, and
makeup artist extraordinaire Bro. Chen did some stunning work

128 129
 on her. I remember seeing some of her portfolio photos, and I makeup artists, but those skills were nothing in comparison to the
didn’t even recognize that they were Jenn until I looked at them a God who designed us, who made us in his image. We are beautiful
second time. He was able to alter her appearance that much with not because of who we are or what we do, but because of the touch
just makeup and hair. of the Master’s hand in our lives and his deep love for us. When
A while back, one of our upscale department stores brought we hold his hand tightly and stay close to him, our beauty reflects
in a specialist who was a master when it came to makeup. I signed a God who is so beautiful, awesome, and loving that there are no
up for an appointment because I always words to describe it.


get great tips from those sessions. I felt like
a queen after he worked his magic on me.
Dear Father, it blows me away that the God who made the
For the rest of the day, I received tons of
We are universe loves me. Help me to return that love to you. Help
comments. “You look so pretty today.” Or
“Wow, your eyes pop. I’ve never noticed me to spend time with you, to see you with fresh eyes. I’m
beautiful not
how beautiful they were before today.” so grateful for your unconditional love, Father. Sometimes I
because of
There’s just something about the touch fret because I’m not “this” or “that” when it comes to beauty.
who we are but
of a master’s hand. Remind me that you knit me together in my mother’s womb,
because of the that I was designed by the Master’s hand exactly how you
We’ve talked a lot about our beauty in
touch of the this book, but today, let’s think about God’s wanted me to be. Help me to hold tightly to your hand, to stay
Master’s hand beauty. Imagine that Jesus is sitting next so close to you that I become more like you each day. I want
in our lives. to you as if you were having coffee with a to be a beautiful reflection of a God who is beyond beautiful.
dear friend. See him as real. He is radiant, Amen.
beautiful. See his holiness and his goodness. See his love.
It’s life-changing when we truly realize the depth of God’s
love for us, when we come to understand that he delights in us. BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Did you comprehend that, sweet friend? The God who made us
delights in us, and he loves us. 1. God says he knit you together in your mother’s womb.
Have you ever seen a young woman who’s just become What does that mean to you?
engaged or a bride on her wedding day? Their faces are radiant 2. How does the touch of the Master’s hand make a
because they know they are loved. God’s love is even better than difference?
that. It’s eternal. This love gives us an intimate connection to Jesus. 3. What do you think is beautiful about God?
He is our companion, our best friend who will never leave or
forsake us. He is a lamp to our footsteps, guiding us each day.
Jenn and I both felt prettier because of the skills of the

130 131
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING
God’s love is amazing, but sometimes we get used to it and we
don’t stop to think about how blessed we are to have it. Sit down
today and think through your life. Make a list of the ways that Chapter Thirty
God has shown his love to you. Then go out and show his love to
others.
Such a Time
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART
“If you remain completely silent at this time, relief and
deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you
HELP ME and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether
COMPREHEND YOUR you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:14 nkjv
LOVE FOR ME.
FROM THE BEAUTY KIT
How does it affect the mirror of your heart when The word purpose describes the act of becoming what you were
you truly get the scope of God’s love for you? created for or something you intend to do. The word divine
describes us as becoming like God.

Talk about a beauty pageant! The king’s representatives had

searched the kingdom for the most beautiful women they could
find as possibilities for the next queen. All of them were brought
to the palace.
Esther was a Jewish orphan, but in that sea of beautiful
women, there was something about her that made her stand out.
There was an inner beauty and the favor of God. The king loved
her best and made her the new queen.
But that was just part of God’s plan for Esther. He had a bigger
purpose for her. When wicked Haman set out to destroy the Jews,

132 133
 her uncle, Mordecai, sent word for Esther to go before the king you, I wanted you to become beautiful for me, but you had other
and request mercy for her people. Visiting the king without an things to do that you thought were more important.”
invitation meant she might be put to death, but Mordecai told her, Sweet friend, today is the day to determine that you will
“Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a become the woman of divine beauty that God desires, that you’ll
time as this?” fulfill the purpose he has for you, and that you’ll live so close to

 The Jews fasted for her, and then she

stepped out in faith for the purpose that
God had designed just for her. Because of
him that you can almost feel the warmth of his hand on your
shoulder.
Each day as you go out on the catwalk of life, model Jesus for
Each of us will her faithfulness, her people were spared, everyone, knowing that he has made you divinely beautiful so
face that “for and this beautiful woman left behind a others can see him through you.
such a time as story to inspire all of us.
this” moment To become a woman of true beauty Dear Father, I realize that you have a purpose for my life.
like Esther, we must fill our lives with Please don’t let me leave that purpose unfulfilled. Take away
in our lives,
God’s truths and take on his attributes the lies I’ve believed about myself and the words that others
that time when of purity, holiness, mercy, wisdom,
we will, or we have spoken to me. Instead of looking at my inabilities, help
compassion, courage, and faithfulness. We
me to see your abilities that are without limits. Instead of
won’t, do what must groom our hearts daily, cleansing
focusing on my failures, help me to look ahead to what you can
God has asked away the imperfections, applying his Word
to every aspect, and fashioning our lives
make of me if I apply your truths to my life, and if I fashion
us to do.
after him. myself after your attributes. Lord, make me a woman of great
There is only so much we can accomplish with our outward beauty not for my glory, but for yours. Give me an inner
beauty, and time will take a toll on that. But with our inner beauty, beauty that comes from a heart that is chasing after you. Help
there’s no limit. We have the ability to become more beautiful my life to please you. Amen.
until the end of our lives. There’s a reason for that inner beauty: to
please the heart of God, to reach others for him, and to achieve the
purposes he designed for us before we were even born. BEAUTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Each of us will face that “for such a time as this” moment in
our lives, that time when we will, or we won’t, do what God has 1. In a sea of beauty, what made Esther stand out? What can
asked us to do. make you stand out from the crowd?
It would be a shame to stand before God someday and hear 2. What can keep you from fulfilling the purpose that God
him say, “You wasted the opportunities that I gave you. I had a has for you?
purpose for your life, but you missed it. I wanted to be close to 3. How can you prepare for that “such a time as this” moment
in your life?
134 135
 GET YOUR STILETTOS MOVING THE WOMAN IN MY MIRROR
Michelle Cox
Make a two-column list. In the first column, list the things
you can learn from the life of Esther. In the second column, list I look in the mirror, that less-than-perfect woman
what you’d like to change about your life spiritually so that you can and what do I see? is still what meets my eye.
live a life of courage and faithfulness like Esther did. A far-from-perfect woman Yes, I’m the woman in the mirror.
looking back at me. I spend my time on the outward me,
THE MIRROR OF YOUR HEART She’s having a bad hair day, When what’s really more important
a red bump is on her pug nose, is what does Jesus see?
and, oh to my soul! When he looks in the mirror of my life

BEAUTIFUL FOR
Is that chipped polish on her toes? and how I’ve spent each day,
What about those wrinkles, I hope I’ve not disappointed him,

HIS PURPOSE. crow’s feet, and old age spots

that had the nerve to show up
but I’m afraid to hear what he’d say.
That mirror of my life might change
despite cold creams that were bought. if each day were a spa for the soul,
Is that dress a Goodwill reject? spent pampering my prayer life,
Where’d she get those shoes? pleasing God as my ultimate goal.
How does it affect the mirror of your heart
Forget a beauty pageant, Exfoliating my soul’s flaws,
when you realize that God has made you it’s a cinch she would lose. tweezing faults that must go away,
beautiful for his purpose? Oh my, the figure! becoming fashioned in his likeness,
Enormous hips and thunder thighs. and spending time with him each day.
If they gave a trophy for “Biggest So, Lord, whenever you look at me,
Gainer” I hope that what you see
she’d surely win the prize. is a woman who longs to be like you
A makeover is in order, because then a true beauty I’ll be.
a pedicure and a day at the spa, When others see the mirror of my life,
then a facial and a shopping trip there’s one thing I hope they can do:
for Spanx and a Wonder Bra. when they look at that shiny reflection,
All of it’s in vain all they can see is you.
because no matter what I try,

136 137
 Acknowledgments About the Authors
A book like this doesn’t just happen, and we are so thankful for Known for her “encouragement with a Southern drawl,” Michelle Cox
everyone who helped us make Divine Beauty a reality. is a speaker and an award-winning, best-selling author. She’s the co-author
Thank you to Joel Bunkoswke and Jim E. Chandler, co-creators of of the When God Calls the Heart devotional book series based on Hallmark’s
The Farmer and The Belle, for all your support and help, and most of #1 show, When Calls the Heart.
all, your prayers. We couldn’t have done this without you. Michelle has written for Guideposts, Focus on the Family, FoxNews.com,
Many thanks to Michelle Winger at Literally Precise for your Christian Cinema, WHOA Magazine for Women, Leading Hearts Magazine,
editorial talents and the creative designs by Chris Garborg for crafting and the website of Fox News Radio Host Todd Starnes. She is the creator of
a beautiful book. the Just 18 Summers® brand of parenting products and resources, and has
Thank you to Erin Smalley, Arolyn Burns, Sue Silvestri, and been a guest on numerous television and radio programs, including Home
Jacqui Phillips for providing additional insights to us women for a & Family, Hannity, and Focus on the Family.
pathway to biblical beauty. She and her husband, Paul, have been married for 44 years, and have three
We couldn’t do what we do without our prayer team and we are sons, three lovely daughters-in-law, and seven perfect grandchildren.
so grateful for their faithfulness in praying for us and for our work. Connect with Michelle at WhenGodCallstheHeart.com, www.just18sum-
Our agent, Tamela Hancock Murray is a gift. She is always such mers.com, on Twitter @MichelleInspire, and on Facebook at www.Face-
an encouragement and blessing. Tamela, thank you for your wisdom book.com/MichelleCoxInspirations.
and for your prayers. Jenn Gotzon Chandler’s career break came from playing President
Both of us are blessed with the best husbands ever. Thank you Nixon’s daughter, Tricia, in the five-time Oscar-nominated film Frost/Nixon.
to Paul Cox and Jim Chandler for their love, for always being so This launched Jenn into family movies on Amazon, and brought about
encouraging, and for their prayers as we worked on this project. awards for Doonby, God’s Country, and Saving Faith. With two Academy
Most of all, we’re so grateful to God for this opportunity. Our Award-nominated films under her belt, Jenn has developed a niche playing
prayer for this book was that God would send us the words that he real-life characters in values-based cinema, for example, My Daddy’s in
wanted on the pages. All glory and honor go to him. Heaven. Ted Baehr with MovieGuide, states, “Jenn Gotzon reveals character
We are so excited to share this devotional book about divine with an extraordinary emotional range, better than almost anyone in
beauty with you. Sweet friends, we have prayed for you as we’ve Hollywood today!”
worked on this book, and we hope that through the pages of Divine Jenn is passionate about impacting and inspiring audiences as a public
Beauty, you’ll discover that nothing is more beautiful than a woman speaker, and through the movies she appears in alongside her husband, Jim
who is sold out to God. You can be that woman. E. Chandler. The Farmer and The Belle (movies, books and jewelry) is her
With love, ministry, providing a pathway to true beauty and real love, for girls of all
ages to have a healthy identity that’s based in godly values. She tours globally
Michelle and Jenn sharing her mission in Asia, Europe, and throughout America. Jenn loves
worshipping God, watching sunsets with her love, and playing games with
her family. Follow @JennGotzonChandler on Instagram and text the word
INSPIRING to 22808 to receive a fun movie gift and read her newsletter.
138 139
 PSYCHOLOGY APPROACH TO DIVINE BEAUTY NUTRITION TIPS TO DIVINE BEAUTY
Erin Smalley, BSN, MS, LPCC Susan Silvestri

We all have lies written on our hearts. We can’t see them, Your body is the outward representation of the inward you.
yet they affect how we see ourselves and interact with the world. When your body is operating at its full potential, you are more
Maybe like Belle from The Farmer and the Belle movie, it’s because apt to have a healthy mindset and vibrant spirit. Nutrition and
you think something is wrong with you or your body—in essence exercise help to keep your body fit. This, in turn, frees you to do
“I’m ugly, fat, and unworthy.” Though others try to tell you this physical activities. Sometimes you need to remove the pressure to
isn’t true, you don’t believe them. be perfect, allowing God to give you the discipline and joy to help
But you can govern your thoughts with truth. in this process.
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, You were created to use your body for more than just outward
be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. appearance. Your body functions as an instrument to not only
Psalm 19:14 KJV accomplish tasks, but to be a display of splendor, an expression of
Make sure your self-talk is gracious and kind. Don’t speak to praise and glory. (Excerpted from page 71.)
yourself in a way you wouldn’t speak to someone you love. Your Nutrition and exercise are not a diet and fitness program but a
heavenly Father wants you to stop putting yourself down. lifestyle. The key is balance and grace. Eating fit foods (nutritional)
Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) says, “The tongue has the power of life can alter your life and create habits of health and wellness.
and death.” Allowing yourself the occasional free food (like dark chocolate)
Identify the negative voices in your life and surround yourself gives variety and keeps you out of bondage. Staying away from
with people who speak positively to you. fake food (processed, refined food) can keep you from the stuff
You don’t have to do it by yourself. As a believer, you have that is harmful to you.
the spirit of truth in you to lead you toward healing and truth. It’s Exercise to stay fit but allow yourself the joy and freedom
worth the battle to seek healing around these lies. It will impact within that.
how you show up in every situation. It is this balance of discipline and grace
“When he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all While you are running your life’s race
the truth.” John 16:13 NIV With the vision to be the best you can be
“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” That will keep you wHoly fit and wHoly free!
John 8:32 NKJV (Excerpted from page 212.)
*Discover more about Erin on Focus on the Family and Learn more about Susan at SusanSilvestri.com or her book
in her book, The Wholehearted Wife: 10 Keys to a More Loving wHoly Fit, wHoly Free at Amazon.com.
Relationship.

140 141
 THERAPY STEPS TO DIVINE BEAUTY COSMETIC TIPS TO DIVINE BEAUTY
Arolyn Burns, LPCC, LMFT, Coach, Author Jacqui Phillips
and Inspirational Speaker
Beauty is in your heart and soul, not in the eyes of the
Growing up, I was bullied. I felt ugly, unloved, and like a beholder, and words are powerful.
complete outcast. In high school, even though I made the #1 drill Words can attach themselves to your inner mind and affect
team in the nation, I didn’t feel like I was good enough. the way you feel about yourself.
I am grateful for those experiences as they taught me to lean God made us all unique, so why not love what makes you,
on Christ, to have compassion for others, and to reach out to the you!
outcast or unlovable. Our true worth is innate. We are created “in Perception matters. Embrace your beauty, and here’s how:
the image of God.” He knit us together in our mother’s womb. I For the face, prep, prime, primp. Start with clean skin, toner if
tell all my clients “You are perfectly you.” We have all heard that needed. For best results, use a moisturizer, primer, concealer, and
God doesn’t make mistakes. And what’s really cool is that he foundation. Don’t forget to blend—it is truly your best friend. To
planned you. You have strengths and talents and were created for a look like a pro, forgetting your neck is a no-go.
purpose. Thrive in who you were created to be. Your eyebrows are often unsung heroes, they frame the face,
If everyone were the same, we would be cookie-cutter opening up your eyes, and even can give you an eye-lift. Don’t
Stepford wives. How boring. Be you. Be free. Know the One who underestimate the power of your brows. Make your brows work
created the universe created you in all your silly, crazy, creative, for you.
fun, interesting, loveable uniqueness. For next level allure, contouring and highlighting is what
The Bible says to hold every thought captive: you’re looking for.
1. Each time you notice a negative thought—say out loud, Eye makeup is a personal experience. Period. Make sure to
“That’s not true.” choose a color palette that complements your skin tone. Again,
2. Say a positive alternative out loud (the stronger and more blend. Don’t forget to have fun with this as this feature is a great
truthful the better). opportunity to let your personality shine.
3. Redirect your thoughts to the present moment. Be mindful As women, we influence, empower, and nurture many people.
of what is in front of you, for example, a sunset or the details of With that being said, please remember to go out in the world with
flowers. love, and offer the world your best you.
Visit Arolyn Burns at TheATreatment.com. Believe Love of Ourselves Matters—B-L-O-O-M into
beautiful.
*Jacqui Phillips is a celebrity makeup artist, best-selling, and
award-winning author of Reset: 6 Essential Resets to a Healthier
Happier You. www.jacquiphillips.tv @jacquijphillips

142 143
 Special thanks to Arolyn Burns, LPCC, for her friendship and
prayers and for her generous sponsorship to make Divine Beauty
become a reality.
Have you ever had a bad day and needed someone to listen,
help you process things, or talk you off a ledge? At the “A”
Treatment Center, they don’t just heal, they transform. Arolyn
specializes in anxiety, phobias, trauma, and chronic pain. For
more information, visit her website at TheATreatment.com.

#Beauty Bracelet™ is a beautiful chain

that holds five charms which affirm
the mind, body, and soul on what true
beauty and real love divinely are.

144