Adorned in Modesty

Is modesty a new word for you? Maybe you’ve had a vague idea growing up that modesty is “ugly” or “out of style.” Maybe before now it’s never occurred to you that God has something to say about the clothes you wear. Well, hopefully this week will be helpful for you as we uncover the quality of biblical womanhood and why modesty is so important.

“I desire then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarrelling; likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.” (Timothy 2:8-10)

Here Paul is addressing that women in the church should not look exactly like the ungodly women in the world. Women in the church are to be different: a light to unbelievers. They should stand out not because of their revealing clothing, but because of their modest heart and dress. As women we are called to dress in a way that is not “distracting” to men in their pursuit to grow in godliness.

Immodesty is more than wearing a short skirt or low cut shirt. Immodesty reveals pride in our hearts, the opposite of humility.

Pastor John MacArthur Says:

“How does a woman discern the sometimes fine line between proper dress and dressing to the center of attention? The answer starts in the intent of the heart. A woman should examine her motives and goals for the way she dresses. Is her intent to show the grace and beauty of womanhood? It is to reveal a humble heart devoted to worshipping God? Or is it to call attention to herself and flaunt her beauty? Or worse, to attempt to lure men sexually? A woman who focuses on worshipping God will consider carefully how she is dressed, because her heart will dictate her wardrobe and appearance.”

Our wardrobes are a public statement of where our hearts are. So what kind of clothes come from a humble modest heart? ...Tomorrow we’ll find out!