Ingénues have a special way of drawing out masculinity in a man. Even when they are fully matured they have a youthful and innocent way about them that naturally makes a man feel strong. Good men love to care for young ladies; it’s part of God’s design. His strength complements her tenderness; her sweet nature calls forth his strength.
Not all men are good, however. It seems to me that the mean men love the Ingénue as well; not because they want to fight for her, but they like to fight with her. Like a big brother picking on a young sibling just to prove his strength, a mean man wanting to look tough often sees the Ingénue as an easy target. She has a very inviting nature and is naturally willing to give all she has for those around her, and in her innocence she often falls victim to abuse. Unfortunately, unlike the Natural who reasons her way through difficult times, abuse not only rocks the world of an ingénue, it often changes her joyful, encouraging character. Where she is naturally enthusiastic for others, her passion becomes protective of herself—like a wounded dog. When this girl decides to “do it herself!” the essence of her beauty, her vulnerability, is robbed from her and she is left with an uncertainty about who she is.
Ingénues tend to have a hard time making decisions anyway, so when they are no longer sure of themselves—but determined to not need anyone else—they may push themselves away from others or they may become very compliant and simply follow the lead of anyone who tells them what to do (which can lead them back into more abuse).
This isn’t how it happened with Esther. She was protected and cared for. Like a delicate flower, this Img.ID—when she is treated right, is a powerful beauty. Her tender and creative nature flourishes and accentuates the beauty of those around her, influencing them to be more of who they ought to be. That’s what Esther did when she asked her people to fast and pray with her in order that she could save them from annihilation. She called forth their strength, and in turn they encouraged her.
Ingénues are team players. Sometimes they are overlooked (since they always look younger than they are, people assume they don’t have much to offer) but when they step into the game, they bring the inspiration and the team wins. Esther’s team won. If you haven’t read this book in God’s Word, I suggest you do. It’s a powerful story of God’s great faithfulness coming through for His people.
The Ingénue’s delicate frame and humble personality lends itself to beauty in balance. Her free temperament and youthful appearance commands adoration simply by her presence; if she guards her heart from becoming overly independent, or co-dependent, she can make a big difference in her world by encouraging others.
If you are an Ingénue, I encourage you to remember that God fights for you, even if others have fought with you; let Him heal your hurts and let your young, delicate beauty shine for His glory and not your own. Your image should reflect who you are.
*****
Catrina Welch is an image- and life-coach whose message is not as much “what not to wear” as it is, “Know Who You Are,” which is the title of her book of guidelines for your personal image identity. Catrina has also written a Bible study to help women overcome their confidence conflicts; it is titled Supreme MakeOver: a Rich and Refreshing Devotional Experience. Her other books include Footprints Through the Sand: a Consolidation of Life-altering stories about Loving and Loosing a Trisomy-18 Baby and Confident Beauty: Reflecting the One Who Made You with the Images in Your Mirror and Your Soul, which will be available in book stores this spring. All of these books are available now at www.CatrinaWelch.com
If you are interested in having Catrina come speak to your friends, colleagues or ministry you can contact her on facebook or by email at catrina@catrinawelch.com.
Leave a Reply