For 400 years, the Hope Diamond, a 45-carat blue jewel, has traveled the world.

It has graced royalty and commoners alike. Today it rests in the Smithsonian, insured for 250 million dollars. Once it was just one of the many beautiful things owned by King Louis XIV.

In spite of all the beautiful things with which King Louis XIV adorned his life, he isn’t remembered for his discretion or his grace. The wars he waged, the palace he built, the jewels he wore, the parties he threw, came at the cost of his kingdom.

His people suffered due to his lack of discretion and wisdom. High heels and crowns didn’t make King Louis XIV more graceful. He knew it. On his deathbed, he advised his son not to follow his bad example.

Beauty doesn’t have to cost.

The vision that makes for close-knit friendships and lasting marriages is free.

Jesus wasn’t outwardly attractive, the Bible tells us in Isaiah 52:2, but crowds were drawn to hear His words. Children wanted to be near Him. The twelve disciples gave up years of their lives to follow Him. Why? Because Jesus had a beautiful heart.

Those walking with Jesus are undoubtedly beautiful. Our beauty doesn’t come from clothes or hair or jewelry. It comes from our Jesus-like character. We don’t need diamonds to shine.