Women and Modesty

A few days ago my reading included 1 Timothy 2. Verses 9 and 10 have, in decades past (and in some churches, even today), been used to impose legalistic standards for women. It has lead to women having to wear "modest" clothes that are at least a century out of date along with ugly shoes and hair coverings. Is it necessary for women to dress thus in order to be "modest" and, by extension, holy? I suppose if the alternative is $200 hairdos, low-cut bustlines (and Victoria Secret bras), short hemlines, and 5 inch heels then yes, the outdated attire is more holy. Much more.

But, are we stuck with only those two choices? Looking around fundamental and pentecostal churches, it would seem so. But, no, these are not the only choices. What we, ladies desiring holiness, need is to understand the intention of what Paul wrote. If we chew on it, meditate and pray, the Holy Spirit will guide us to appropriate attire. The first requirement for "appropriate" is a right heart. See, if we are doing it just to look holy then we are doing it for the wrong reason and it means nothing. With a right heart, a heart seeking after God and a desire to be holy as He is holy, we will come to a style that is godly without being antique.

My ideas on the subject have evolved over time as I have prayed and meditated and at times fallen for legalistic attitudes which then lead to more prayer and more meditating. I've gone through (and come out the other side) of seasons when I would not wear pants. Jewelry and make-up, for me, was less of an issue. I have worn make-up and jewelry but ultimately gave them up. Not, mind you, because I thought or think they are heathen  (heatheren in the Southern vernacular). Make-up makes me feel like I'm wearing a mask -- like I'm covering up Tina and pretending to be someone else. Jewelry is just more "girly-girl" than I am. I opt for pants to church for the most part because it is more modest than dresses if I end up prostrate before the Lord at the altar.

My advise to young ladies generally is something like this: Necklines don't need to be jaw high, just high enough to not show one's "ladies" to men who are not our husbands. Hemlines should be low enough so that we are not mistaken for a lady of the evening or Vegas showgirl. The wearing of jewelry and make-up is a personal choice but should be done with class and a delicate touch. They are, after all, for highlighting, not covering up. Don't be a distraction to men. Respect yourself and expect men to do the same. You are a treasure that should be unwrapped on your wedding night -- not by every man within eyesight.

"I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God."

Today's Reading: Matt 13; Gen 13; Rom 13; 1 Tim 5; Job 13; Psalm 13; Prov 13; Joshua 13; Isaiah 13; Acts 13