Does God Care What I Wear?

Last week, we learned what it means to “bear our own load” (Gal. 6:5). There are certain individual responsibilities that are absolutely non-transferrable. We have to take ownership of certain aspects of our life, including our own personal holiness. Our God is holy (I Pet. 1:13-16), therefore we must be holy in all that we do, say, act, react and even the way we dress.

Does God care what I wear? The world says it’s your body. You can wear what you want. Nobody can tell you what you’re supposed to wear. But as Christians, we must consider a different perspective (I Cor. 6:19-20). We were bought at a price. We are to glorify God in our body. Our body is not our own. Therefore, we ought to think about the clothes we wear. And when the Bible talks about modesty — just like anything else — it’s an attitude that starts in the heart.

How should we dress? Let me draw your attention to six phrases found in I Timothy 2:9-10 and I Peter 3:1-6.

Modest: Orderly; well-arranged; decent. This word applies more to the showiness of clothing, not the lack of clothing. Not trying to stand out and draw attention.

Propriety: Sense of shame. Ability to blush. This word applies more to the lack of clothing. Knowing where the boundaries are and making sure what is supposed to be covered is covered.

Moderation: Soundness of mind; good judgment.

Proper for professing godliness: Making a claim to godliness. It matters how we dress because it sends a message. We don’t live life in a vacuum. How we dress impacts other people, and the Bible encourages us to value our influence.

Chaste: Pure from fault; holy; free of defilement. Improper dress can have an adverse effect.

Gentle, quiet spirit: Meek; peaceful; calmness. Emphasis should be placed on the inner person. That is the adornment that greatly pleases God. If we spend more time on our dress, hair or makeup than preparing our hearts, that’s a problem (Prov. 4:23).

What should I wear? We ask ourselves that question every day. So while you’re pondering that thought, consider: Is it modest? And does it profess godliness?