Last week I shared beauty tips. Getting rid of things that don’t serve me is a best practice to a beautiful life. As it goes, I had the opportunity to put into practice the beauty tips I shared. It’s not easy and changes aren’t instantaneous, but beauty isn’t quick and easy either.

This day, I am challenged to consider carefully what I allow into my mind. Who gets to decide how I feel and what I pursue? Jesus is an excellent example. Listen to what the gospel of John records about him.

²⁴But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew all about people. ²⁵No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart.

John 2:24-25

⁴¹“Your approval means nothing to me. . . (said by Jesus to a group of religious people)

John 5:41

I know I don’t have it all figured out. I think and say things I shouldn’t. I make mental judgments that aren’t kind. The opinions of others mean too much to me.

Yet I know that I am being changed bit by bit into the likeness of Christ. Focusing on what I think others think or on my own failings is not transforming. The Holy Spirit transforms me.

¹⁸So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.

2 Corinthians 3:18

Beauty tip for today: let go of the approval of others and trusting in or waiting for others to give you the green light. Look intently into the face of Jesus and wait for his nod of consent.

Today, this one’s for me first and you second!