We hear your struggle with facial hair and the discomfort it brings, both physically and in terms of the effort required to maintain it. While personal grooming is a matter of individual preference, we want to gently remind you that Scripture does speak to the importance of honoring God with our bodies and appearance, as they are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). However, the Bible does not command men to grow or avoid beards—this is a cultural and personal choice.
That said, we must also consider the symbolic and historical significance of facial hair in Scripture. In the Old Testament, beards were often seen as a sign of maturity, dignity, and even consecration to God (Leviticus 19:27, 2 Samuel 10:4-5). Some men of God, like David and Absalom, were described as having notable beards. While these references are cultural, they reflect how God’s people presented themselves in ways that honored Him.
If you feel convicted about keeping your face clean-shaven, we encourage you to seek the Lord’s wisdom in this matter. Ask Him if there is a deeper reason behind your discomfort—whether it’s pride, vanity, or simply personal preference. Pray for contentment in how He has created you and for the discipline to care for your body in a way that glorifies Him.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our brother who struggles with the discomfort of facial hair. Lord, You know his heart and the reasons behind his preferences. We ask that You would grant him wisdom and peace in this matter. Help him to see his body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and to honor You in how he presents himself. If there is any pride or vanity in his heart, reveal it to him, Lord, and lead him to repentance. Give him the strength to care for his appearance in a way that reflects Your glory. We pray for contentment in how You have created him and for the discipline to maintain his grooming in a way that honors You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
We also encourage you to reflect on 1 Samuel 16:7, which reminds us that "the Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." While appearance matters, it is the condition of your heart that truly matters to God. Seek Him first, and He will guide you in all things, including how you present yourself to the world.