Two ladies who were friends walked into a hall filled with people for an event. After the event, three different guys and a man who was supposedly married approached one of the ladies to request her contact information, while others made suggestive comments and sexual innuendos towards her as she walked by. A closer look at her showed the apparent reason for the attraction—she was scantily dressed. Not only was she clad in a short dress, but the dress hardly covered her, and the part that was covered, or so it seemed, was quite revealing because of the near-transparency of the dress. She loved the attention she was getting; little did she know that such attractions are never genuine and don’t last.
On the other hand, her friend dressed modestly, prioritising humility over flashiness while still looking very classy. Did she get admirers? Yes, she did. Both women were noticed, but for different reasons. The first woman’s dressing sparked conversation about her physical appearance, while the second woman’s modest dress reflected her beauty and character.
The difference between their choices lies in their motivations. One prioritised external validation, while the other wanted to honour God and her body with her dress. This illustrates the transformative power of dressing with integrity.
Of course, in any discussion on dressing, women are primarily the focal points because of the delicate tenderness that comes with their bodies, so permit us to go that route yet again.
Understanding the Biblical Perspective
The Bible provides guidance on dressing with integrity. In 1 Peter 3:3-4, we’re reminded that our beauty should come from within, reflecting a gentle and quiet spirit. 1 Timothy 2:9 encourages women to dress modestly, decently, and sensibly. These principles apply to all of us, male and female, reminding us to prioritise humility over external adornment.
The Power of Spirit-Controlled Dressing
When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide our wardrobe choices, we can experience transformation. Our attire becomes a reflection of our inner beauty rather than a means to seek external validation. The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) provides the antidote to our weaknesses, enabling us to make choices that honour God.
Where to draw the line
Many individuals, regardless of gender, may struggle to define what constitutes indecent dressing; however, we will provide you with a guide.
Anything you wear that exposes a portion of your sensitive and private body parts, potentially attracting undue, ungodly, or sensual attention, is indecent.
No matter the name you give it, be it “body positivity,” “freedom,” “right to wear what I feel like,” “my body, my choice,” or any other excuse or term you come up with to justify dressing indecently, know for sure that you are doing the wrong thing. You will be held accountable in the long run.
Key Principles for Dressing with Integrity
1. Modesty: Modesty in dressing simply means being moderate, not overdoing it and not doing less than required. Modesty, for example, as a lady, could mean not wearing a flowing gown to work, and it also means not wearing a skimpy dress that will likely make everyone around you uncomfortable. It is to strike a balance and prioritise simplicity over flashiness.
2. Respect for others: I’ve often heard ladies say, “I did not dress for men to keep looking at me; I dressed to make myself look good.” Such a lady is either deceiving herself or is ignorant of how powerfully attractive the body God has given her is. Yes, the Bible rightfully admonishes men not to look lustfully at women, and even if a lady is appropriately dressed, it’s still not impossible for someone to lust after her, but the chances of that are slimmer than for a lady who is seductively dressed. As much as many men are trying to avoid the sin of lust, don’t bring the sin closer to them by being an offence or distraction (Matthew 5:28).
3. Self-Control: This is exercising self-control over your desires and impulses, recognising that your choices reflect your character and values.
Sometimes, you want to make a choice, but ask yourself, does this dress honour God? Does it honour my body, or does it reduce me to just an object for sightseeing? (Proverbs 25:28).
4. Dressing for the purpose: Consider the context and dress accordingly, whether for a formal event, a workplace, or everyday life.
5. Pray about your wardrobe choices: Seek God’s guidance and wisdom in your fashion decisions. You will be surprised that the Holy Spirit has a great sense of fashion. Try Him!
6. Consider your motivations: Before you put on that dress, ask yourself, ‘Why am I wearing this?’ Is it to show off? Is it for comfort, or is it to attract or seduce? Be true to thyself.
7. Dress for the occasion: Be mindful of the context and dress accordingly, avoiding unnecessary attention or distraction.
In a world where fashion trends come and go, Christians are called to a higher standard of dressing that reflects the glory of God. While societal norms may influence our wardrobe choices, your dressing should ultimately honour God and reflect that you honour your body.