Neutrality, the Christian, and Dress
by Crystal Paine In this pagan culture, very few believe there is no neutrality, even in many so-called "Christian" circles. If you try to say something is wrong, you will quickly hear that these others have "freedom in Christ."
Excuse me, but when did "freedom in Christ" become "license to sin"?
"It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak."
Since we know that God has created men to be attracted to the outward appearance of a woman (This attraction is not wrong, it is designed by God to be a beautiful part of the marriage relationship!), and we know that men can easily fall prey to lust, as Christian women, we have a responsibility before God and our brothers in Christ to dress modestly. I am not going to define "modesty" for you, that is between you and the Lord and your authority.
But, I will say that if you feel you can wear whatever you want and that if the guy looks, it's his problem, you will someday give account for that before God.
"Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."
Bottom line: If you are dressing (or acting-- modesty begins in the heart) in a way which you know could cause a man to lust, you are sinning. If you are unsure what manner of dress could cause a man to lust (and, even if you think you know the answers, you might be surprised) here's one quick way to find out: Go ask your dad and brothers (if you are still living at home), your husband (if you are married), or an older Godly married woman.
Something which has helped me is to have my husband pick out my clothes (I know some of your husbands probably wouldn't have any interest in this, but ask them anyway, you might be surprised). Before we go somewhere, I usually ask my husband what he would like for me to wear. He also goes clothes-shopping with me, picks out my jewelry, make-up, and hair styles. I delight to please him with my appearance!
Crystal Paine is a 24-year-old homeschool graduate from Topeka, Kansas. She is the blessed wife of Jesse and joyful mother of Kathrynne. Visit her site, Biblical Womanhood, for books, articles, encouragement, and inspiration!
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