(Pass out question cards)

Review the data from what was turned in together.

Why do you think people feel down about the way they look?

Where do you think this tendency to compare ourselves to others comes from?

Nowadays, we have a lot of ways to alter our appearance, from IG filters to makeup, to more permanent alterations like surgery. Do you think that altering our appearance can also alter how we feel about how we look?

It can. Sometimes a fresh shower and clean clothes can make a big difference. Maybe your favorite outfit gives you a little confidence boost. If someone regularly struggles with how they look, do you think physical changes are a lasting fix?

How can we improve the way we see ourselves?

Do you think that how we feel about our mind and heart can impact how we feel about our appearance?

Have you ever met someone really good looking by society’s standards, but they treat people so poorly, or have such a bad attitude that it changes the way you see them? Or have you ever met someone that didn’t really spark your interest, but as you get to know them they become one of the most attractive people you have ever seen? I think it’s interesting how our perception of beauty/good looks can be changed by someone’s attitude and actions. It seems to me like we invest too much time changing the wrong things…

1 Peter 3:3-4 New Living Translation (NLT)

3 Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. 4 You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.

For small groups:

Different people have different passions and priorities, and this can influence our idea of inward beauty.

1. What characteristics do find beautiful and/or attractive (not just in a romantic sense, but in the sense that you like to be around…)

2. What do you think a gentle and quiet spirit looks/sounds/feels like?

3. What characteristics would you like to have, and if you already do, how can you improve on them?

Read the verse again…

Pray

-Karyn