Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Goodliness refers to the quality of being good, attractive, or pleasing in appearance or character. In a biblical context, it often denotes moral excellence, virtue, and the beauty of holiness. Goodliness is associated with the attributes of God and the characteristics that believers are encouraged to cultivate. Biblical References: The concept of goodliness is woven throughout Scripture, often highlighting the beauty and virtue that come from a life aligned with God's will. While the specific term "goodliness" may not frequently appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the underlying principles are evident in various passages. 1. Psalm 27:4 : "One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple." · This verse reflects the psalmist's longing for the beauty and goodliness found in God's presence, emphasizing the spiritual attractiveness of divine holiness. 2. Isaiah 40:6 : "A voice says, 'Cry out.' And I asked, 'What should I cry out?' 'All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flowers of the field.'" · Here, the transient nature of human goodliness is contrasted with the enduring glory of God. Human beauty and virtue are fleeting, but God's goodliness is eternal. 3. 1 Peter 3:3-4 : "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight." · This passage encourages believers to focus on inner goodliness, characterized by a gentle and quiet spirit, which holds true value in the eyes of God. Theological Significance: Goodliness in the Bible is often associated with the character and nature of God. It is a reflection of His holiness, righteousness, and love. Believers are called to emulate these divine attributes, striving for a life that reflects God's goodness and beauty. 1. Moral Excellence: · Goodliness involves living a life of moral integrity and virtue. It is the pursuit of righteousness and the rejection of sin. This aligns with the call to holiness found in 1 Peter 1:15-16 : "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" 2. Spiritual Beauty: · The beauty of goodliness is not merely external but is deeply rooted in one's spiritual life. It is the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23 : "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." 3. Reflection of God's Nature: · Goodliness is a reflection of God's own nature. As believers grow in their relationship with Him, they are transformed into His likeness, displaying His attributes to the world. This transformation is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working within them. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to cultivate goodliness in their lives by seeking a deeper relationship with God and allowing His Spirit to transform their hearts and minds. This involves regular prayer, study of Scripture, and active participation in the life of the church. By doing so, they can reflect God's goodliness in their interactions with others, serving as a witness to His love and grace. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Beauty of form; grace; elegance; comeliness.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GOODLINESSgood'-li-nes: This word is found in Isaiah 40:6 as the translation of checedh, commonly translated "mercy," "kindness," etc.: "All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness (beauty, charm, comeliness) thereof is as the flower of the field." The rendering is retained by the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version as appropriate in this place; checedh is frequently translated goodness.' In Isaiah 40:6 Septuagint has doxa, "glory" (so also 1 Peter 1:24), which also fitly expresses the idea of the passage. Strong's Hebrew 8233. shepher -- beauty, goodliness... 8232, 8233. shepher. 8234 . beauty, goodliness. Transliteration: shepher Phonetic Spelling: (sheh'-fer) Short Definition: beautiful. ... /hebrew/8233.htm - 6k Library Of the Setting of Man's Life "And we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind ... The Withering Work of the Spirit A Voice from the Hartley Colliery section 3 The Comforter A Cry of Comfort for Jerusalem That no Man Shall Deem Another, but Give God Praise: and of Eight ... Thou Dost not Hide Thyself in Thy Bareness, O Pearl! Of Loving Jesus Above all Things Thesaurus Goodliness (2 Occurrences)... (n.) Beauty of form; grace; elegance; comeliness. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. GOODLINESS. ... Multi-Version Concordance Goodliness (2 Occurrences). ... /g/goodliness.htm - 7k Good-looking (7 Occurrences) Goodliest (3 Occurrences) Flowers (42 Occurrences) Hark (22 Occurrences) Resources Goodliness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Goodliness (2 Occurrences)Proverbs 14:34 Isaiah 40:6 Subtopics Related Terms |