Dressing Modestly: Honoring God with Our Clothing Choices

Does God Care What I Wear?

Have you ever stood in front of your closet and wondered what to wear? Perhaps you’ve even asked yourself, “Does God care what I wear?” It’s a question that has plagued many believers, especially when it comes to modesty and fashion. Is it okay to wear revealing clothing? Should we only wear certain colors or styles? Is it wrong to want to look fashionable?

As with most questions related to our faith, the answer is found in God’s Word. Let’s take a look at what the Bible says about clothing and how we can honor God with our fashion choices.

What the Bible Says About Clothing

First, it’s important to remember that clothing is not inherently good or bad. In fact, clothing is a gift from God. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, they realized they were naked and felt shame. God then provided them with clothing to cover their nakedness (Genesis 3:21). Clothing serves a practical purpose: it protects us from the elements and provides modesty.

However, clothing can also be used to express our identity and creativity. The Old Testament is filled with descriptions of colorful, ornate clothing worn by priests and kings. In the New Testament, Paul encourages believers to dress modestly and decently, but he also acknowledges that clothing can be a form of self-expression (1 Timothy 2:9).

So, what does the Bible say specifically about clothing choices? Let’s take a look at a few key passages:

1. Modesty is important.

When it comes to clothing, the Bible is clear that modesty is important. In 1 Timothy 2:9-10, Paul writes, “I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”

This passage is often used to argue that women should not wear revealing clothing or jewelry. However, it’s important to note that Paul is not saying that all jewelry or expensive clothing is wrong. Instead, he is emphasizing the importance of modesty and humility.

Similarly, in 1 Peter 3:3-4, Peter writes, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

Again, Peter is not saying that all outward adornment is wrong. He is emphasizing the importance of inner beauty and character.

2. We should not be a stumbling block to others.

In Romans 14:13-15, Paul writes, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean. If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died.”

While this passage specifically refers to food choices, the principle can be applied to clothing as well. If our clothing choices cause others to stumble or be tempted, we should consider whether our choices are honoring to God.

3. Our focus should be on our heart, not our appearance.

Finally, the Bible emphasizes that our focus should be on our heart, not our appearance. In 1 Samuel 16:7, God tells Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Similarly, in Matthew 23:25-26, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their focus on outward appearance: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.”

These passages remind us that our clothing choices are not the most important thing. Our heart and character are what truly matter to God.

Honoring God with Our Clothing Choices

So, how can we honor God with our clothing choices? Here are a few principles to keep in mind:

1. Dress modestly.

While the definition of modesty may vary depending on culture and context, the Bible is clear that we should dress in a way that is modest and decent. This means avoiding clothing that is overly revealing or provocative.

Of course, this does not mean that we should dress frumpily or unattractively. We can still dress stylishly and express our individuality, while also being mindful of modesty.

2. Consider others.

As we saw in Romans 14, we should consider how our clothing choices may impact others. This means avoiding clothing that is likely to cause others to stumble or be tempted. For example, if you know that a certain outfit will draw unwanted attention or comments, it may be best to avoid wearing it.

3. Focus on inner beauty.

As we saw in 1 Peter 3, our focus should be on developing inner beauty and character, rather than obsessing over our outward appearance. This means prioritizing things like kindness, compassion, and humility over fashion trends or physical beauty.

4. Use clothing to express yourself.

Finally, remember that clothing can be a form of self-expression. God created us as creative beings, and we can use our clothing choices to express our unique personalities and styles. Whether you prefer bold colors, vintage styles, or minimalist looks, there are countless ways to express yourself through fashion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, does God care what we wear? Yes and no. While clothing choices are not the most important thing to God, they can still be used to honor him or dishonor him. By dressing modestly, considering others, focusing on inner beauty, and using clothing to express ourselves, we can honor God with our fashion choices.

Remember, God looks at our heart, not our outward appearance. Ultimately, it’s our character and relationship with him that matter most.