Pull all your hair up
Dab on the make-up
Trying hard to look so pristine
Like a face in the magazine
Those fancy dressers and
Media pressure
Have got you feeling so plain and small
If you don't look like a paper doll
In a world where the goal is
To be like the Joneses
It's guaranteed to drive you wild
Keeping up with the latest style
Gaze in the mirror
You want the glamour
And the grace of a movie star
But I like you the way you are
You are the only one I'm dreaming of
'Cause baby don't you know that I love
You, Girl
You don't have to be picture perfect
To be in my world
Girl
You don't have to be picture perfect
To fit the frame
You're tender, you're tactful
Girl, you're a natural
You possess a heart that's true
That's what I like about you
One in a million
Yea, that's a given
There's a beuty inside of you
And it shows on the outside too
No competition, you're way in the lead
And baby, don't you know that I need...
Picture Perfect Video
Picture Perfect Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Picture Perfect: A Song of Self-Acceptance and God's Unconditional Love
Introduction:
"Picture Perfect" is a song by Michael W. Smith, a renowned Christian musician who has had a significant impact on the contemporary Christian music genre. The song was released in 1995 as part of his album "I'll Lead You Home."
Key Messages of the Song:
The song "Picture Perfect" conveys a powerful message of self-acceptance and the realization that true beauty lies within a person's heart and character rather than their external appearance. It challenges the societal pressure to conform to a specific image and encourages individuals to embrace their unique qualities.
Chronological Exploration of the Song's Lines:
The song begins by addressing the pressures faced by individuals to meet society's expectations of physical beauty. The opening lines, "Pull all your hair up, dab on the make-up, trying hard to look so pristine like a face in the magazine," depict the effort and struggle people go through to fit the idealized image portrayed in the media. It highlights the obsession with outward appearance that often leads to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
Smith then acknowledges the influence of external factors, such as media and the desire to keep up with the latest style, which can cause individuals to feel plain and insignificant. The line, "Those fancy dressers and media pressure have got you feeling so plain and small," expresses the overwhelming impact of societal expectations on one's perception of self-worth.
However, the song takes a positive turn by affirming that true beauty goes beyond physical attributes. It emphasizes the importance of inner qualities and character, stating, "You possess a heart that's true, that's what I like about you." Smith encourages the listener to recognize their worth and value based on their genuine qualities rather than external appearance.
Meaning and Inspiration:
The meaning of "Picture Perfect" lies in its core message of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique qualities. The song aims to counter the damaging effects of societal pressures and shift the focus towards inner beauty and character. It serves as a reminder that true beauty is not defined by external standards but rather by the content of one's heart.
The inspiration behind the song may have stemmed from Smith's personal experiences or observations of the struggles individuals face in trying to meet society's expectations. It reflects his desire to uplift and encourage listeners to embrace their authentic selves, reminding them that they are loved and valued by God for who they are, not how they look.
Biblical Analysis:
The biblical foundation of "Picture Perfect" can be found in various scriptures that emphasize the importance of inner beauty and God's unconditional love for His creation. In 1 Samuel 16:7, it is written, "But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.'"
This verse aligns with the central message of the song, highlighting that God's focus is not on physical appearance but on the condition of one's heart. It reinforces the idea that true beauty is found in the qualities of kindness, love, and integrity that emanate from within.
Additionally, the song echoes the biblical concept of God's unconditional love and acceptance. Psalm 139:14 declares, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." This verse affirms that each person is fearfully and wonderfully made by God, emphasizing their inherent worth and value as His creation.
Critically Analyzing the Song's Biblical Alignment:
"Picture Perfect" aligns well with biblical principles of self-acceptance, recognizing inner beauty, and God's unconditional love. It encourages individuals to embrace their unique qualities and emphasizes that true beauty comes from within.
However, it is essential to note that the song does not address the importance of maintaining good physical health. While the focus should not solely be on external appearance, the Bible also teaches the importance of stewarding our bodies well (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Taking care of our physical health and well-being can be seen as an act of honoring and glorifying God.
Conclusion:
"Picture Perfect" by Michael W. Smith is a powerful song that challenges societal expectations of physical beauty and encourages individuals to embrace their unique qualities. It carries a message of self-acceptance, recognizing that true beauty lies in the content of one's character rather than external appearance. The song aligns with biblical principles of inner beauty, God's unconditional love, and the importance of recognizing one's inherent worth as a creation of God. As we reflect on the lyrics of "Picture Perfect," may we be reminded of the value God places on our hearts and the beauty that radiates from within.
