Good Morning Girls!  When I was a baby Christian I heard Joel Osteen preach on the influence we have on those around us.  He told a story of how he had been running and came home all sweaty and his wife sent him to the grocery store for one thing.  He hopped in the car, drove to the store, and parked.  Just when he was about to get out of the car he said he felt the Lord say "don't you go in there looking like that".  He drove home, showered and then went back to the store. (yeah, his wife was irritated). When I heard the story I was furious.  Partly because I was a new mom and there were days when not having any spit up on my sweatpants felt like I was dressed up.  The message came to mind often.  The fact that the message stuck in my head, and made me mad every time I thought of it, told me that there was something to it.   As the years went by I began to understand what Joel was saying.  It's true.  We all have, and we all are influenced by our surroundings.  But was does this have to do with wearing a sweaty t-shirt?  Bottom line is, people are drawn to people who have the qualities they desire.  Have you ever seen someone who is completely disheveled, sloppy, out of shape, and obnoxious and thought "man, I want what they have".  Of course not.  We admire those who appear put together and in control of their lives.  Does this mean we have can only go out in public if we look perfect?  Of course not.  Wearing designer jeans and having handbags that match our high heel shoes do not make you a real woman.  I believe I can be just as much an influence in my workout clothes as my church clothes.  All it requires is putting on a few critical items.  Love and joy.  If I walk in love and wear my smile, I can be a positive influence.  The best part.....they are both free.  Now there are definitely times when a sweaty t-shirt will not pass.  There are also times when overdressing will make you seem out of reach.  Just be true to yourself, and let the light of the Lord shine through you, and others will remember their time with you, not your clothes.  How does this relate to the Proverbs 31 woman who wears fine linen?  Simple. She carries herself like nobility, like royalty.  So should you.  After all, your Daddy is the King of kings, and you are His Princess.  You can act like one in sweatpants or pantsuits.......and a little lip gloss never hurts! 

Proverbs 31:22 She makes her own bedspreads.  She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns

Love you all-
Jen