Modesty, it almost seems like a foreign concept in today’s society, sadly even in the church. One would think in sharing with Christian parents there would be no need to even touch on this subject, but unfortunately it does appear that at least an admonition is needful. My prayer as an ‘older woman’ is that God through His Holy Spirit would cause you to ponder the thoughts I am about to share and convict where conviction may be necessary and confirm in those areas God has already brought you on this subject.
1 Timothy 2:9 “Also [I desire - Paul speaking] that woman should adorn themselves modestly & appropriately and sensibly in seemly apparel”… What exactly does this word “modest” mean? From Webster’s 1828 dictionary we find this definition: “properly restrained by a sense of propriety, hence, not forward or bold; not presumptuous or arrogant, not boastful, not excessive or extreme, not extravagant.” None of this refers directly to clothing, but the words certainly provide us a picture of what our behavior should be which can guide us in defining what our clothing should look like. Like so many of the decisions we must make, it is our mindset, or thinking that is going to guide us.
1 Peter 1:14 & 15 also provides some direction, “as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” We are to grow in holiness, so that we will not dishonor God’s name by compromised living. We are to be a good ‘advertisement’ for the gospel.
The following are some answers to the question, “What does modesty do?”
Protects you sexuality
Keeps sexuality a private matter
Holds your sexuality in high regard
Keeps you from embarrassment
Modesty says, “be feminine,” Society says, “be sexy”
Modesty will keep you from disgrace and regret. Modesty protects you.
Modesty does not equal ugliness. Beauty is not the issue.
Modesty is a pride in your appearance without excess. It allows you to wear clothes that flatter your figure without being revealing.
Remember, the principle of modesty, holiness, purity applies equally to boys, girls, men, and women. It just so happens that often times, it is the woman’s apparel that comes into question. But this topic needs to be evaluated and consider application for both sons and daughters. As we walk along the way of life, we want to make sure all we do will glorify God. With that basic thought as a guiding principle we should be able to discern what is modest apparel, actions, thoughts, reading or viewing material. Will God be made bigger; will others see God clearly through my family and me when they see us as a son or daughter of the King? We have been called for a purpose and with a purpose, may the Holy Spirit lead and guide you as you consider this very important topic.
Love,
Anne Marie
Christian Family Heritage has the resource tape: “What is Biblical Modesty” available for a full development of this topic.
This article is presented here with permission form the author. It was written by Anne Marie Ezzo and was originally published in Along the Way: Christian family Heritage Newsletter Volume 3 Issue 6.
