The Evil "M"

Modesty. There, I said it.

Most, likely the first thing you think of when you hear the word modesty is clothing. Immediately, people want to stop reading because we've heard it all before. Appropriate clothing is something that is drilled into many Christian homes. But modesty is so much more than the outward appearance. (Hint: It doesn't only apply to girls either.)

Three ladies of my student body at college recently spoke on this topic of modesty. It was such a good perspective that I thought I would share it for you.

First of all, modesty means humility. It is not drawing attention to yourself, but giving God the glory. And it's not just dress. It can be talents, position, or attitude. Showing humility through modesty is characterized by self-control. It is giving God the glory due His name.

Second, modesty means purity, not just physical but also spiritual. It is purity in thought, action, and motive. It is being holy, blameless, not causing others to fall. It includes your speech, dress, and lifestyle. Living in purity means examining the small every day actions that are seemingly insignificant. It is being blameless.

Lastly, modesty means appropriateness in clothing, actions, and relationships. You would not wear the same thing to climb a rock wall as you would to a church service. You would not act at a ball game as you would at a funeral. In relationships, you have a role as either a lady or a gentleman; the roles should not be switched. (It's part of God's perfect plan.) It all boils down to this: discretion. Proverbs 11:22 says, “As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.” It just doesn't fit! Ask yourself if it fits or if it is out of place.

So all that to say, modesty is so much more than appearance; it's a lifestyle! How's your spiritual wardrobe? Is it one that draws attention to self or gives glory to God? Is it characterized by purity and self-control? Is it appropriate? Are you living a modest life?