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The Influence of a Meek and Quiet Spirit, April 29
Exerting a Right Influence
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the
hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it
be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible,
even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight
of God of great price.
1 Peter 3:3, 4
The apostle presents the inward adorning, in contrast with the out-
ward, and tells us what the great God values. The outward is corruptible.
But the meek and quiet spirit, the development of a beautifully sym-
metrical character, will never decay. It is an adornment which is not
perishable. In the sight of the Creator of everything that is valuable,
lovely, and beautiful it is declared to be of great price.
Shall we not seek earnestly to gain that which God estimates as more
valuable than costly dress, or pearls, or gold? The inward adorning, the
grace of meekness, a spirit in harmony with the heavenly angels, will
not lessen true dignity of character or make us less lovely here in this
world. The Redeemer has warned us against the pride of life, but not
against its grace and natural beauty.
Self-denial in dress is a part of our Christian duty. To dress plainly
and abstain from display of jewelry and ornaments of every kind is in
keeping with our faith.
It is of the greatest importance that we ... show by precept and
example that we are cultivating that which the Monarch of the universe
estimates of great value. In doing this what an influence for good can
we have.
Children and youth who devote time and means to make themselves
objects of attraction by outward display and affected manners are not
working in the right direction. They need to cultivate true, Christian
politeness and nobility of soul.... The beauty of mind, the purity of the
soul, revealed in the countenance, will have more power to attract and
exert an influence upon hearts than any outward adorning.
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