Choosing clothes to wear is a very personal thing. Our clothes are a reflection of our personal taste and are often an expression of our personalities.
We often don’t take kindly to criticism of our choices. We dress to please ourselves first and foremost. But is this a good policy for someone who claims to be a Christian?
Often we argue, “What I wear doesn’t matter.” “God has more important problems.” “I have my heart right with God, what I wear makes no difference.”
But before hanging your hat on these sentiments, have you asked the Lord what his will is in this matter? Whenever we seek to know the will of God we look to his Scripture. This is what he has expressly given us to know his heart and mind.
The Bible has several principles regarding clothes.
Principle 1: Men and Women are to Dress Differently.
The first explicit command from God regarding dress is this:
“The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God. Deutornomy 22:5
The Bible calls for a clear distinction between men’s and women’s clothes.
Our Clothes DO matter. Especially in a world that is completely befuddled with “gender confusion”.
To dress in styles that are labeled masculine is going against this simple biblical command.
For century’s men wore pants, women wore skirts. The distinction was clear.
Does this mean you have to be overly feminine and submit to ruffles and bows? Not at all. Practicality is in no wise cast aside.
There are plenty of ways to dress in a feminine way without going over the top with girlish display.
Principle 2: Clothes Should Cover Us
(leaving no seductive hints, ie: cleavage, too much leg, nothing clinging to curves)
The issue of modesty is a very old one.
The first instance of God coming down and correcting someone’s choice of immodest clothes happens in Genesis, with Adam and Eve.
They had each partaken of the tree. The first notable change that registered with them was a sense of their physical nakedness. To notice nakedness you must first have been clothed to know the difference.
“And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked, and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. Genesis3:6
Figleaves are rather large if you are just talking about leaves. But for clothing, they are not adequate.
The word “apron” in Hebrew seems to indicate something that might have only covered them around their waist, which would be even less than a swimsuit.
What does God do to rectify their problem?
“Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.” Genesis 3:21
The word “coats” in Hebrew implies a robe. A robe covers more than just the most secret parts. The Lord wanted his creation to be completely covered, not exposed.
Principle 3: Simplicity in Dress
“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 with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. 1 Timothy 2:9.10
The mark of Christian women is simple and unadorned. The truly humble will not seek to draw undo attention because of the obvious expense of their clothing or with particularly loud and trendy styles.
I think it’s important to note that to dress in an overly “frumpy” way, not taking care to be tidy, paying attention to the coordination of colors or styles, will also draw undue attention.
We should not discredit our Savior by looking sloppy or strange.
There is nothing wrong with a flattering color or a tasteful arrangement. But we should not seek to glorify our own pride in our attire.
Obviously, this is a matter that requires prayer and a cautious, humble spirit. I often ask the opinion of my spouse and even my children, if I am unsure about something I have chosen.
Allow the Spirit to refine your taste and ignore the worlds changing fashions.
There is a way to dress in a refined and timeless way that gives credit to the Savior we espouse, lifting us onto a heavenly plane, even while our feet are grounded to earth!
“Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen.” Isaiah 43:10
The Bible gives us clear instruction on how the Lord on how he would have his maidservants clothe themselves. Our clothes should distinguish us from men; modest skirts and dresses are an attractive way to comply with this command.
Our clothing should adequately cover our femininity without seductive hints. Last, of all, a Christian woman does not dress for show and display. Her focus is on good works and a sweet spirit.
May God Bless you as you seek to comply with His principles. If you are looking for examples and inspiration for your modest wardrobe, check out these popular posts!
