Modesty

What is it?
Modesty is an attitude/characteristic of the heart. Humility is never a defect in a person. One who is secure in their relationship with Christ will feel no competition with others. They are content to interact with others fully cognizant of who they are, functioning within the boundaries of their own capabilities, or limitations with confidence. One who lives and behaves in simplicity quietly performs daily tasks and routines without the trumpet blown before. There is no need to call attention. Modesty acts gently, but with no less perfection or care as one who may constantly announce their deeds.


In Life
We can also display modesty in life. Quietness, humility, and simplicity are values to be grasped and sought after. Colossians 3:12 says, “Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
A life of modesty is lived towards God and each other. Towards God, we recognize Him as the source of all our gifts, abilities, and strength. We know that we can do nothing apart from Him, that we are fully dependent upon Him for everything we need. As a result we acknowledge Him in every undertaking fully trusting His wisdom, that He will always do what is best for us. Towards each other we show our modesty by honoring others before ourselves. We do not fight and compete but willingly allow others to have the place of prominence. Philippians 2:3 says, “Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.” We must be confident that our own abilities will open any necessary door for us and so quietly, give ourselves to the pursuit of excellence. Christians are representatives for Christ wherever they go, in whatever they do. When we excel we glorify God who gave us our ability. 1 Corinthians 4:7 says, “What makes you better than anyone else? What do you have that God hasn't given you? And if all you have is from God, why boast as though you have accomplished something on your own?”


Obtaining It
Modesty may be obtained by adopting the mindset of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:5-8 says, “Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. Though He was God, He did not demand and cling to His rights as God. He made Himself nothing; He took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. And in human form He obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal's death on a cross.” Most people do not naturally possess an attitude of modesty as characterized by humility and simplicity. We instinctively seek recognition and attention. We want others to honor us for who we are and what we have done. However, if we follow after Christ as His disciples, we will divest ourselves of all self-seeking and submit ourselves to God. Living a life of modesty is a personal determination. We purposefully set out to be content, patiently waiting for God to give the promised rewards, which do come, even in this life. God is faithful; He sees all that we do. Contrary to the modern belief that we allow ourselves to become doormats and castoffs, those who honor God and live humbly before Him have His promise upon which to depend. 1 Peter 5:6 says, “So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and in His good time He will honor you.”


Also, the modesty of our heart is reflected by the way we dress. 


Stay tuned as tomorrow I will be posting about a challenge of wearing skirts for 7 days.