What does it mean to dress modestly?

from the old testament

• While one of the main focuses of Genesis 3:21 is foreshadowing the sacrificial system, God's act of providing garments signifies the importance of covering our bodies appropriately for modesty.
• Garments were designed to ensure that the priests maintained a sense of modesty and dignity while performing their sacred duties. The specific instructions for the priestly attire highlighted the importance of covering their body appropriately, especially in the presence of God (Exodus 20:26, 28:42).
• God prohibited the wearing of the opposite gender's clothing (Deuteronomy 22:5). This underscores the importance of adhering to God's laws, maintaining modesty in behavior and appearance, and promoting a sense of dignity and respect for one's identity by dressing appropriately for one’s gender .
• Discretion involves making thoughtful choices about how we present ourselves, and modesty often requires discernment in attire and behavior that reflect respect for God (Proverbs 11:22).
• The actions of the women of Zion in Isaiah chapter three starkly contrast with the modesty and humility God requires. They serve as a warning against pride and immodesty (Isaiah 3:16-24, Proverbs 31:30, Micah 6:8).

from the new testament

• God commands Christians not to conform to the world's patterns, which include immodest behavior and attire, but to be transformed by His Word to discern what is good and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:2).
• Our bodies are sacred temples of the Holy Spirit given to us by God. We belong to Him, having been redeemed at a great cost. We should honor God by treating our bodies with modesty and respect (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
• Both men and women should conduct themselves with modesty and propriety in worship (1 Timothy 2:8-10).
• True beauty should not come from external adornments like elaborate hairstyles, gold jewelry, or fine clothes. Instead, internal beauty , characterized by the modesty of a gentle and quiet spirit, is highly valued in God's sight (1 Peter 3:3-4).

implications for today

Dressing modestly shows propriety, but it can be challenging to define because there is no specific Christian list of acceptable clothing. Modesty concerns both men and women and encompasses more than avoiding revealing clothes. It reflects our heart, attitude, actions, and appearance and should reveal our desire to honor God in all we do, including what we wear.

Paul and Peter emphasize modesty in their epistles, focusing on dressing respectably to demonstrate humility and self-control. Paul advises women to adorn themselves modestly, avoiding flashy or costly attire that signals social status (1 Timothy 2:9-10). Instead, clothing should be appropriate, not intended to attract attention. The true measure of attractiveness lies in our hearts and good works. Modesty in dress reflects an attitude of humility and a desire to honor God.

Modest appearance and behavior is essential for all believers . God used the same principle when H e chose David to be king: "For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). Our adornment should be our character, not our clothing. For the Christian, good works and a gentle and quiet spirit please God and are attractive to others . Our outward appearance will likely be appropriate for the occasion when our heart is in the right place.

The Bible encourages discernment and wisdom in clothing choices. Reflect on your intentions: Are you dressing to attract attention? If so, evaluate your heart and wardrobe. Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit and follow Colossians 3:17: "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."