Once Vivian accepted Edward’s offer, he began to provide clothing for her. If she is going to be seen with him, she needs to make the right impression. If she is going to be at his side, she needs to look elegant. First he sends her out to buy some clothes on her own, after instructing her on what to wear, and What Not to Wear.
On her own, she is unable to get the help she needs in the upscale shops she visits. The salespeople look down their noses at her and send her on her way. It is at this point that Edward steps in and ensures that every one of them is practically bowing and scraping to fulfill her every whim.
Ah, yes, the power of a gold card. (sigh!) No doubt about it! These are among our favorite scenes in Pretty Woman!
Jesus also cares about what we wear. If we are to represent Him, we also need to be aware of the impression we are making. I’ve noticed women of all ages and all walks of life dress in a way that leaves little to the imagination. This is not what Jesus wants for us.
Remember how Vivian looked so classy, respectable, and distinguished after she changed the way she dressed? She is absolutely dignified in a polka-dot dress with matching hat, gloves, pumps, belt and purse, with a smile of confidence on her face, and her head held high. And now, rather than garnering all the wrong kind of attention, she is turning heads for all the right reasons.
That is what Christ wants for you. It’s not about you being the center of attention; it’s about Him being glorified because you are His. Appropriate clothing brings Him honor, He cares a great deal about how you are dressed.
“I clothed you with an embroidered dress and put leather sandals on you. I dressed you in fine linen and covered you with costly garments. ...your clothes were of fine linen and costly fabric and embroidered cloth. ...You became very beautiful and rose to be a queen. And your fame spread among the nations on account of your beauty, because the splendor I had given you made your beauty perfect, declares the Sovereign LORD.” Ezekiel 16:10-14
Jesus will not physically take you shopping -- but He can tell you What Not to Wear. He wants you clothed with dignity and honor. He doesn't want you to buy into the lies of this world that you must be provocative to be noticed, to be valued, to be important. Girls -- you don't want the wrong kind of attention, do you?
Precious Reader: Begin today to view yourself as the Pretty Woman you really are. I am not saying to go out and spend a bunch of money you don't have -- we have to be smart about money, especially these days! But, next time you get dressed to go somewhere, ask yourself, "Does this bring honor to Jesus? To me?"
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