Modesty has several meanings that overlap each other. It can mean humility, moderation or not calling attention to oneself. When referring to appearance and behaviour, modesty can also mean not being sexually suggestive or too revealing.
What is considered modest often depends partially on the culture and times in which you live. It’s wise to dress in styles consistent with your culture, but it is important to make very modest choices within that range of styles in spite of the sexually alluring options very often advertised and promoted.
The story of King David and Bathsheba demonstrates the power of feminine allure (2 Samuel 11). Although the Bible holds David responsible for the adultery, Bathsheba was partly to blame for not making sure her bathing was hidden from view. She so ignited David’s lust that he jeopardized his reputation and reign.
It is easy to send unintended signals. What a woman or young girl might think of as “cute” may be too revealing and look like a sexual come-on to a man. There is a difference between dressing attractively and dressing to attract.
It’s also good to remember that modesty involves more than clothing. The way you talk and walk and your body language should also be modest and pleasing to God. We have a responsibility to be lights to the world! (Matthew 5:14). Wanting to “fit in” with hot new fashions is tempting, but Paul warned “do not be conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2).
Keep in mind it’s wrong to do anything with the motive of having a seductive effect on others. You can find examples of women using clothing, jewelry and makeup to be seductive in 2 Kings 9:30; Jeremiah 4:30; Ezekiel 23:40; Hosea 2:13.
The apostles Paul and Peter both emphasized all women, and especially godly women, should dress and act modestly, with their primary concern being to adorn themselves with good works and righteous character (1 Timothy 2:9-10, 1 Peter 3:3-4).
Christian women should be more concerned about what God thinks than what people think. “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30).
