The term “countenance” appears in the Bible over 50 times, and its definition is often used metaphorically. Generally, considerance is defined as “relating to the face, or facial expression”. As such, the concept of considering a person’s countenance relates to their overall outward appearance or demeanor. In many cultures and religions, including Hebrew and Christianity, countenance is frequently used to express a moral judgement or opinion–for example, to describe a person as looking “righteous” or “sinful”.
In the Bible, countenance is used as an indication of God’s attitudes and feelings. For example, in the Psalms, Psalm 34:5 expresses that “those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Here, countenance is a metaphor for God’s approval or disapproval of a person’s actions. This same concept is echoed throughout the Bible, often in reference to how a person should act in order to obtain God’s favor–often described as having “the face of God”. Interestingly, there are also times in the Bible where having an ugly or wicked countenance is literal. In Leviticus 15:7 it states “and they shall be unclean”, when talking about people with “running issues” their countenance would be an “abomination”.
In the Bible, countenance is not always used in an overtly religious or spiritual way. For example, in the book of Proverbs, the wise-man Solomon offers many proverbs about being “fruitful in your countenance”–pointing to people’s relationships with each other, not just with God. In Proverbs 15:13 it states “a glad countenance makes a cheerful heart”, indicating the importance of positive behaviour and body language in the pursuit of happiness. Similarly, in Proverbs 16:15, it’s written “better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it”, which emphasizes the need for moral goodness, and not just material wealth.
In conclusion, countenance is a heavily referenced concept in the Bible, and its meaning is multifaceted and works in different contexts. It is often used to express a moral judgement, as well as a reflection of God’s attitude and opinion. It can also be used to refer to the relationships between people, and the need for positive behaviour. Countenance seems to be an overarching theme in the Bible, and is used to define what it means to be human and how we should behave in order to find moral and spiritual fulfilment.
Countenance and the Fear of God
One of the lessons from the Bible about countenance is that people should strive to be filled with the “fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7, 14:27). This means putting aside selfishness and self-centeredness and making God the center of our lives. It’s a decision to live a life that pleases God and follows his will. The Bible teaches us that a good example of living a life of loving God and fearing God is to show his countenance, which is a reflection of our inward condition.
The Bible also tells us that God desires a reverential and respectful countenance (Exodus 34:29-30, Deuteronomy 5:25). In other words, people should strive to be respectful and show genuine humility and reverence in the presence of God. Having a reverential countenance includes having proper demeanor and attitude; having an attitude of humility and respect; and having an attitude of worship. It is vital that people take the time to cultivate these qualities, so that they can be coming closer to God and experiencing his will and pleasure.
Finally, having a countenance of faith is also important. This involves having faith and confidence that God is with us and hears our petitions (Hebrews 11:1-3). It is a faith that no matter what or where we are, God is with us, loving us and guiding our lives. Total reliance on God and his will is important, and believing in Him is a vital part of having a good countenance.
Countenance and Respect for Others
The Bible also teaches us that respect for others should be part of the countenance. This is because God specifically commands us to love and respect others as we love and respect ourselves (Mark 12:31). In other words, respect for others is essential, because God commands it, and it is necessary in order to reflect His presence and will. Showing respect for others includes refraining from gossiping, avoiding backstabbing and putting others down, and having a humble attitude towards those whom we come into contact with.
Having a respectful countenance also includes offering compliments and expressing gratitude towards others. In today’s society, it is often easy to forget to appreciate those around us and take the time to thank them for their contributions to our lives. Having a good countenance implies taking the time to show gratitude and being appreciative for others. Additionally, counting on others in times of need is an essential part of having a good countenance, as well as being consistently kind and understanding of others.
Furthermore, having countenance implies offering help to those in need. In the Bible, Jesus often spoke of how it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35). Having a good countenance includes being generous with our time and resources, and knowing when and how to offer help to those in need. This is part of showing the love of God to others, and it allows us to be of service to those around us.
Countenance and Moral Conduct
Lastly, the Bible tells us that good countenance is associated with moral conduct. This involves having a strong sense of morality and following the laws of God. Having good moral conduct means not giving in to temptations of sin, and following the Ten Commandments in order to show respect for God (Deuteronomy 5:7-21). It also means refraining from dishonesty and refraining from lying and stealing. Good moral conduct includes avoiding malicious intentions and deeds towards others, and striving to be righteous in all aspects of life.
In addition, it is important to remember that while having a good countenance is essential, it is not enough. We must also strive to uphold our moral commitments. This includes striving to stay away from temptations, as well as avoiding immoral behavior. We must also take the time to put in an effort to remain faithful to God, so that we can be worthy of His favor and grace. Having a strong countenance comes from living a moral life and striving to be upright and independent of sin.
Countenance and Personal Worth
The Bible teaches us that our worth is not dependent on having a perfect countenance. God often reminds us that human beings, who are imperfect, are loved and accepted by Him (Psalm 18:25). This means that we do not need to strive for perfect facial and body language, as it is possible to come closer to God even if our countenance is not perfect.
God also encourages us to recognize that our imperfectness is part of being human. Showing a countenance of humility and admitting the limitations of our own morality and spiritual condition can be more valuable than putting on a show of “perfection”. Furthermore, humbling ourselves before God and recognizing our imperfections will increase our worth in His eyes, as we show ourselves to be striving to understand our own limitations and growth.
Finally, the Bible tells us to recognize our worth and not to let others define or discredit us based on our countenance. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 states “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” This passage reminds us to keep our eyes on the eternal, and that any outward flaws are momentary.
