Jewelry has a timeless appeal. It can tell a story, commemorate an event, or simply serve as an expression of style. Recently, I purchased two permanent bracelets, one of the trending choices for 2024. Being a lover of jewelry, this felt like a perfect addition to my collection. My stand-up jewelry box is overflowing with pieces I’ve gathered over the years, each with its own story.

One of my most cherished items is my very first jewelry box, a gift from my dad. Though the music mechanism stopped working years ago, the memories attached to it remain vibrant. Inside was a bracelet he had personally designed, carefully selecting each rock stone to make it unique and meaningful.

Over my 44 years of marriage, my husband has gifted me many pieces—some simple, others elaborate—all tokens of love. Among the many treasures in my jewelry box, a pair of tiger’s eye earrings are another piece that holds a special place in my heart. Years ago, my husband and I went gem mining in North Carolina—a fun and adventurous outing we shared. From the stones we collected, he chose two tiger’s eye pieces and had them crafted into a pair of earrings just for me. Over the years, he has gifted me countless beautiful pieces of jewelry, each one special in its own way, but these earrings are my absolute favorite. As I reflect on these treasures, I’m reminded of the spiritual lessons we can draw from the significance of adornment.

Jewelry, no matter how beautiful or sentimental, is temporary. It may tarnish, break, or eventually lose its luster. But the Bible speaks of a kind of adornment that is eternal. In 1 Peter 3:3-4, we are reminded:

“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.”

While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying beautiful things, this verse challenges us to prioritize the adornment of our hearts over our outward appearance.

The idea of a permanent bracelet has deep symbolism. Unlike pieces that can be removed or misplaced, a permanent bracelet signifies an enduring connection. It can remind us of our relationship with God, which is also meant to be permanent and unbreakable.

Consider the covenant God made with His people in Jeremiah 31:33:

“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”

This covenant isn’t based on external rituals but on an intimate, internal bond—a permanent commitment etched into the hearts of His people.

Much like the way I treasure the jewelry from my past, God treasures His relationship with us. Jesus spoke about the value of storing up eternal treasures in Matthew 6:19-21:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

The gold and silver we wear may hold sentimental value, but the greatest treasure is a life aligned with God’s will, reflecting His love, grace, and truth.

Scripture frequently speaks about the qualities that truly adorn a person. Consider these verses:

• Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
• Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

These qualities are the spiritual equivalents of priceless jewels. They enhance not only our lives but also the lives of those around us, pointing others toward God.

In Isaiah 61:10, the prophet paints a beautiful picture of the adornment God gives to His people:

“I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness.”

This imagery reminds us that God doesn’t just call us His own—He clothes us in salvation and righteousness, gifts far more valuable than any earthly jewelry.

The jewelry in my collection tells a story—of love, milestones, and memories. In the same way, our lives tell a story of God’s grace and faithfulness.

One day, the jewelry I cherish will be passed down or left behind. But the spiritual legacy I build—through faith, prayer, and service—can impact generations. In Psalm 145:4, we are encouraged:

“One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.”

Let’s strive to leave behind a legacy of faith that shines brighter than gold.

A Practical Challenge: Adorning Our Lives with Faith

• Start a “Spiritual Jewelry Box”: Just as we carefully curate and cherish physical jewelry, let’s intentionally collect spiritual treasures. Write down answered prayers, scriptures that have impacted you, and stories of God’s faithfulness.
• Wear the Armor of God Daily: In Ephesians 6:10-18, we’re reminded to put on the full armor of God. This spiritual “adornment” equips us to face life’s challenges with strength and faith.
• Be a Reflection of God’s Love: Jewelry often catches the light and draws attention. Similarly, our lives should reflect God’s love and truth, drawing others to Him.

One of the most beautiful promises in Scripture comes from Revelation 21:2-4:

“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

In this passage, we see the ultimate adornment: the Church, beautifully prepared for Christ. This eternal promise reminds us that while earthly treasures may fade, God’s love and salvation endure forever.

Jewelry may sparkle and shine, but the most radiant adornment we can wear is a heart transformed by God’s love. Let your life be adorned with compassion, humility, and faithfulness, reflecting His glory in all you do.

As you admire the treasures in your jewelry box, take a moment to consider the spiritual treasures you’re storing up. Are you investing in what truly lasts?

May we, like the psalmist, declare: “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God.” (Isaiah 61:10, NIV)

Let’s strive to live as His treasured possessions, adorned with His grace and shining as a light to the world.