“Beauty is only skin deep,” says an American proverb. Similarly, a Chinese saying asserts, “If there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person.” And as many have testified: “Outer beauty turns the head, but inner beauty turns the heart.”

Scripture agrees. Peter wrote to wives with unbelieving husbands: “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight” (vv. 3–4).

How might these women witness the gospel to their husbands? By submitting to them and living with purity and reverence (v. 1; Eph. 5:22), and by cultivating inner beauty and living with gentleness and tranquility (quietness or inner peace). The examples of “holy women of the past” confirm this (vv. 5–6). Sarah, for instance, submitted to and obeyed Abraham, calling him “lord” (culturally appropriate in that day). She didn’t do this out of fear or a desire to manipulate him, but because she put her hope in God and did what was right.

Husbands also have reciprocal responsibilities in God’s eyes (v. 7). They are to be considerate and show respect. Their wives may be physically weaker, but spiritually they are equal “heirs with you of the gracious gift of [eternal] life.” Paul also taught that husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25).

For women, Paul likewise taught that good deeds and modesty are far more beautiful than expensive clothes, jewelry, and fancy hairstyles (1 Tim. 2:9–10). Proverbs 31:30 sums up: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

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