Modesty

Ever since the beginning of time it has been in God’s plan for a distinction to be between a man and a woman. Ever since the beginning of the church it has been in His plan for there to be a separation between the church and the world. Both distinction and separation are very important aspects to consider when addressing the topic of modesty in dress and daily living.
                Many from the outside looking in consider holiness dress to be a wasted sacrifice. Yet, there is such a beauty in the rejection of self for the acceptance of God. It is rare for many holiness young people to realize that, however, because the majority of them have not accepted it in their hearts.
                Many think that if it is long enough or high enough then they are alright according to the standards of holiness, but they fail to see that just as much attention is drawn to the body when the clothing clings to it.
                Modesty is a heart issue. If a woman is only trying to receive the attention or interest of a man then it will be obvious in the way that she dresses. She can uphold to the right length of a skirt or height of a shirt, but what she indicates in the way it is worn speaks so much louder.
The subject of modesty is not only based on the issue of tight clothing, although that has become quite a problem in not only society, but in holiness churches as well. The style of clothing has become so corrupt that one must be careful on the design and make of the dress. When we get ready to head out the door to step into the world we should look at the mirror and ask ourselves; “Is there a motive behind the reason why I am wearing this? Am I wearing this outfit a certain way or taking after a certain style because I want to be noticed?” Sometimes we as woman are ignorant or innocent of the ways we cause men to stumble, but we must be cautious so as not to be the cause of it.
The reason we dress the way we do is because God wanted there to be not only a distinction between men and women but also a distinction between the church and the world. When we go out into the world they should be able to tell what we are and who we are by how we live and Who we live for.  They should be able to know that we are different not only because of the way we dress but the way we live.
In 1 Peter 2:9 we are called “a holy nation, a peculiar people” so that we could “shew forth the praises of him” who has called us “out of darkness and into his marvelous light”. The word ‘peculiar’ means ‘precious’ and is used to describe a people that God is longing to call out of the world of darkness and be a light for those that are seeking truth.
Sure, living pure and modest may seem difficult and a sacrifice according to the world’s standards and maybe even by those in the church, but what is it compared to the Ultimate sacrifice that took place for us?


By: Sonia E. Vargas

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