mod·es·ty
ˈmädəstē/
noun
noun: modesty
1.
the quality or state of being unassuming or moderate in the estimation of one's abilities.
How it is viewed ultimately depends on your perspective. There are several definitions for modesty in most dictionaries; it is most often rendered as humility, shyness, or simplicity.
Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in G-D's sight is very precious.
"If you've got it, flaunt it." is a familiar phrase to women these days. The world has some confused ideas about what it means to be a beautiful woman. Nevertheless, a modest individual can be seen as a person possessing positive characteristics. Humility need not be a deficit; one who recognizes their own strengths and weaknesses who has become comfortable with herself will feel no competition with others. But still need to look put-together for your own self-confidence.
I have learned how to see my appearance for what it is, contrary to the modern belief that to be modest is to allow ourselves to become doormats and castoffs, living a life of modesty is a personal determination. I purposefully set out to be content in keeping my hope and trust in The One who designed and fashioned me according to His will. Therefore bringing Him glory and honor not only through my verbal profession of faith, but my acts of deeds in modesty.
First and foremost, a biblical definition of modesty must focus on the heart. Modesty is primarily about our motivations. In addition, modest dress is also about discernment, having an awareness of others and our environment.
One who lives and behaves in simplicity quietly performs daily tasks and routines without blowing a trumpet beforehand. 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.
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.”
What we wear says more about us than we might think. Many of us probably barely think at all when we get dressed in the morning.
Is it OK to look pretty? Yes!
Wear makeup and jewelry? Yes!
Put effort into my clothes? Yes!
Take care of my body? Do I have to care about how I look? Where can I find modest, classy clothes without spending a fortune? What should my attitude be toward the latest fashions? How do I figure out what looks good on me? What is appropriate to wear when? What in the world do I do with my hair? Do I cover my hair? And if so. How? These are all questions we have at one time or another.
I personally have struggled with many of these through out my journey in life starting at the early age of 12. As a "preacher's kid" my life was examined, evaluated, criticized, opinionated, etc. etc. etc., and it caused me many a hardship.
So now, as a "Roeh(pastor)'s wife" and a "teacher/morah" myself; I am determined to examine, evaluate, criticize and make opinions on myself through G-d's principles and values for my own sake.
Makeup and jewelry was seen as "Jezebel", now it is optional for me, which is really nice. With regards to makeup, I find that I have fun with it, but I often don't bother to wear it because I don't have time or whatever. When I do I tend to like a very simple and natural look.
Upon meeting me for the first time, people may immediately see “stocky build” "middle-age" “curly hair” or "plain Jane". After spending a bit of time with me, they may notice “artistic” or “corky.” After getting to know me, they may be able to see me as “emotionally complex” or “a highly abstract thinker.” And just as others can view me on different planes, so, too, there are any number of ways in which I can view myself.
So as I venture into the challenge of tzniut/modesty, my focus or vision is to project every aspect of myself in such a way that it draws the focus to my true identity. The way to project this message is to transform the outside layers of myself into an expression of my inside.
Tzniut/modesty begins with looking past my more superficial layers and seeing who, on the deepest level, I am capable of being. And, most importantly who I am in the eyes of my Heavenly Father!
G-d has blessed each one of us with a unique personality and the freedom to express it. When our clothes and grooming support the person who lies beneath we are the most at ease and happiest with our appearance.
So in order to help me discover the mode of dress that best expresses who I am, I will attempt to re-do my closet.
It’s time to show the world what it really looks like – one soul, one body, one face, one closet at a time, starting with mine!
Next Blog: Turning My Closet into My Personal Boutique!
Being a Good Steward of our Adornments is necessary to enable us to be "Modest & Fashionable!"
Shalom, Rachel bat Sarah
