The first key to understanding a biblical definition is that modesty is not merely what you wear. Modesty is not a “good” article of clothing, and immodesty is not a “bad” article of clothing. Actually, modesty is quite different. Biblical modesty is more about what you are than what you wear.

We draw our current understanding of modesty from several biblical concepts, including the biblical word modest (KJV), which refers to appropriateness. In passages that deal with how Christian women should dress and act, we see humility and purity emphasized as well as appropriateness. It is significant that none of these words refer to specific articles of clothing. Let us look briefly at some verses that use these words, come to a conclusion on a definition, and then discuss the parts of the definition in more detail.

I Peter 3:2-6—Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

Peter instructs Christian ladies to adorn themselves with a meek and quiet spirit. A meek spirit in this context is a spirit of humility. Peter illustrates this attitude by describing godly women who in humility placed themselves under the authority of their husbands. The grace of humility is essential for submitting to authority and is a rare and precious adornment for a Christian lady. It affects why we do what we do, including why we choose certain clothes and how we wear them. No matter how we dress, if we are filled with pride in our “modesty” and superior disdain for others who dress differently (even if we believe they are wrong), we show that we misunderstand what modesty really is.

Questions to ask when purchasing clothing:

• Am I buying this clothing to please my friends?
• Am I spending too much time thinking about my clothing and how it relates to other people?
• Does it draw undue attention to sensual female areas?
• Can I alter the clothing in some way to correct any problems?
• Will it cause a godly young man to have difficulty keeping his thoughts pure?
• Is it distinctly feminine?
• Does this clothing fit the guidelines my authorities have set for me?
• Does it reflect a love for believers and unbelievers I spend time with?
• Would a larger or smaller size look better?
• How does it look when I bend over, raise my arms, or sit down?

This section is an excerpt from What Is Modesty by Michelle Brock. This book is available for purchase by ordering online (www.ShopIronwood.org). Michelle defines modesty and then makes application, and her definition and application go well beyond just clothes. This resource is a valuable tool for mothers and ladies in ministry.