What does the Bible say about decorating your home?

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Decorating one’s home is a way to express personal style, create a comfortable living space, and even showcase memories and heritage. While the Bible doesn’t provide explicit guidelines on interior design or home décor, it offers principles that can guide believers in creating a home environment that aligns with biblical values. Let’s explore what the scriptures might suggest about decorating our living spaces.

The Importance of Simplicity and Contentment: Philippians 4:11

“Not that I speak in respect to lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.”

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the value of contentment in all circumstances.
While it’s enjoyable to beautify our homes, it’s essential to avoid becoming overly attached to material possessions and remember the impermanent nature of earthly belongings.

Making Your Home a Place of Peace: Proverbs 24:3-4

“Through wisdom, a house is built. By understanding, it is established. By knowledge, the rooms are filled with all rare and beautiful treasure.”

Wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are likened to the foundational elements of building and decorating a home.
A home should be a sanctuary of peace, love, and wisdom, reflecting the values of those who dwell within.

Avoiding Ostentation and Pride: Galatians 5:26

“Let’s not become conceited, provoking one another, and envying one another.”

While it’s natural to take pride in a beautiful home, the Bible cautions against excessive pride or using one’s home to provoke envy in others.
Decorations should be chosen for personal joy and comfort rather than to impress or outdo neighbors.

Hospitality and Welcoming Others: Hebrews 13:2

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

One of the primary functions of a home, as suggested by the Bible, is hospitality.
When decorating, consider creating welcoming spaces that can comfortably accommodate guests, reflecting a spirit of generosity and openness.

Incorporating Symbols of Faith: Deuteronomy 6:9

“You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

The Israelites were instructed to inscribe God’s commandments on their homes’ doorposts, making their dwellings a constant reminder of their faith.
Incorporating symbols of faith or scripture into home décor can serve as daily reminders of God’s presence and promises.

Prioritizing Spiritual Over Material: Matthew 6:19

“Do not lay up treasures for yourselves on the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break through and steal.”

While decorating and creating a beautiful home is enjoyable, the Bible reminds believers to prioritize spiritual treasures over material ones.
It’s essential to strike a balance, ensuring that our homes, while aesthetically pleasing, don’t become the center of our lives.

Decorating one’s home is a personal journey, reflecting individual tastes, memories, and values. While the Bible doesn’t offer specific guidelines on home décor, it provides principles of simplicity, contentment, hospitality, and faith that can guide believers in creating a home that’s both beautiful and spiritually aligned. In every decorative choice, let the home be a space of peace, love, and reflection of God’s enduring presence.