“Praise the comely for the upright” (Ps. 33:1).
Two old English words which sound alike present a real study in contrast: homely and comely.
Homely, unfortunately, has in our day taken on the meaning of “unattractive, dowdy, lacking in beauty.” Originally, however, homely simply meant “proper or suitable to the home or ordinary life.”
For example, Cinderella could be said to have worn “homely” clothes when she did the cleaning and scrubbing around the house. In fact, her whole everyday setting could be described as “homely” or “domestic.”
Comely, on the other hand, meant “pleasing in appearance; fair; proper, seeming; becoming.” It would describe Cinderella when she was dressed in her finest apparel to attend the ball at the palace of the prince. That setting was not domestic, but royal.
In the original Hebrew, the word translated comely is na’veh (naw-veh’). It is defined as “fitting, appropriate, suitable.” In Isaiah 63:3 the prophet speaks of the “garment of praise.” Thus, the psalmist is telling us here that praise is the proper adornment for the believer when in the presence of royalty.
When invited to a royal function (as Cinderella was), one is expected to dress appropriately. Everyday activities may allow for “homely” apparel, but spiritual worship calls for “comely” attire.
When entering into the Holy of Holies for an audience with the King of Kings, we should be properly clothed. That’s why we are exhorted to enter His gates with thanksgiving and to come into His courts with praise.
Praise is our comely adornment for a visit with His Majesty the King.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.