Thursday, May 3, 2012

Why Modesty - Part 4


We have looked at what the Bible says about modesty and a little of the blessing of modest dress. Now I'll share a bit about the way a Mennonite woman dresses.

In a past post about Mennonites, I mentioned there is a wide variety of clothing standards among us Mennonites. Some Mennonites are indistinguishable in dress from the world around them. I'm not trying to judge them or anyone else. Each person must decide before God the clothing God wants them to wear.

But many Mennonite women are known for wearing a distinctively plain dress called a cape dress. Jane Martin shares some of her thoughts on the cape dress.
In the past several months, I opened a little store online to sell modest dresses for women and girls. I am both blessed and challenged by the women I meet, many of whom dress modestly and cover their heads. All of them feel alone in the journey. Often they are the only ladies in their community or family that have chosen to wear modest clothing.
There is many options for modest dress, but since I sell mostly cape-style dresses, I'm asked frequently “What is a cape dress?” A cape dress has a cape or piece of cloth worn over the top of the dress to conceal the figure. The cape is usually sewn to the dress at the neck and the waistline, providing a second layer over the bodice of the dress. One of my favorite things about a cape dress, is the ease for breastfeeding. An opening can be sewn under the cape, providing quick and discreet access.
Thanks, Jane, for your input.

Many of you know that I did not grow up in a Mennonite church. I was part of a Brethren church that, in many ways, was similar to the Mennonites. My mom taught me the importance of dressing modestly and femininely. I wore mostly dresses, skirts, and jumpers but not a distinctive cape-style dress.

When we married, my husband was part of a Mennonite church. Together we decided to make his church ours. One of the things this church asked was for all their female members to wear a cape dress. It is not that they considered every other kind of dress immodest. As a church, they had chosen the cape dress as a good application of the Biblical principles of modesty and separation from the world.

Since I was joining this church, I needed a new wardrobe. I can sympathize with anyone who radically changes their clothing standards. It is not fun to throw out favorite garments. I didn't always have a good attitude. There were days I dressed, stood before the mirror, and scowled at the reflection.

But time and God did a work on my heart. I now gladly wear a cape dress and have no desire to change to any other style. As Jane mentioned, the cape dress is very forgiving in all the changes of childbearing. I love that I no longer become frustrated while shopping for nice, modest clothing. Now I only need to visit a fabric shop, find a fabric I like, and sew a new dress. (Of course it helps that I like to sew!) I'm not bound by the fluctuating styles. My pattern can stay the same despite the changing fads. What some may see as bondage to rules has become a means of freedom to me.

As Jane mentioned, if you are one who is seeking to dress modestly, you are not alone. Please be encouraged; there are many women searching the Scripture to find direction on dress.
But I will caution you to beware of a trap I've fallen into: pride. How quickly I can go from seeking God's will on what to wear, to comparing myself with others and feeling superior because of my choices. God says that He hates a proud heart. All the fabric in the world can't cover a sinful heart. It is important to follow God's direction on modesty, but it is also important to cultivate a proper attitude of humility.

I would love to try to answer any questions you have on modesty. Again, I don't want this to be a debate. Each of us will answer to the Lord Himself on what we wear. May the Lord bless your journey as you walk with Him.











50 comments :

  1. I appreciate your simple, humble words, Gina. It is so true that modest clothes cannot conceal a sinful heart. The two must compliment one another. There are those of us who have worn the cape and found it to be unsatisfactory to meet our needs. I appreciate cape dresses when they are truly modest and many women are able to wear them this way. I always felt like my hips (I have small waist, larger hips) were not concealed like I wanted them to be and so now wear a simple blouse or vest (or modest hoodie/sweater in winter in the North country) over my dresses to give me that added comfort. I certainly do not mean these words to be a debate. Just adding some thoughts here.
    Modesty is so important that the Lord speaks of it in various places and from various angles in Scripture. It certainly is something that I want to be in my heart as well, and to teach my daughters.
    Thank you for honoring your mother by speaking of how she taught you to dress modestly even tho the style was different than what you now wear. I appreciated that.
    God bless and keep you.
    Marcia

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marcia-
      Thanks for your thoughts! I agree that a modest dress, vest, or jumper can be as modest as a cape dress. Blessigs,
      Gina

      Delete
  2. thanks, gina, for covering this important topic! i think you're doing a wonderful job of being tactful, graceful, & loving. as i get older, i can see how wearing dresses would be very freeing, & if i sewed, i really think i'd be quicker to do so. God bless you as you continue to seek His heart in modesty in dress & action!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Gina, I appreciate your humble and gracious words. As my heart has become sensitive to modesty, I'm thankful for God's leading and the wisdom of others! God bless you! And, I might add, modesty on men's part is so appreciated, also! Your blog teaches women, but a lot of us are raising sons!....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wendy -
      Thanks for the reminder that this isn't just women's issue! I do want my boys to understand the importance of modesty as well.
      Gina

      Delete
  4. In the past few years, God has been working on my heart and attitude about the clothes I choose. Sometimes it is a challenge because I perspire easily and so I prefer sleeveless blouses. I couldnt find alot of options in the stores that were sleeveless but also had a modest neckline and were a heavy enough fabric to be modest. But I am blessed with a mother who sews! She made some modest blouses for me that I feel comfortable. Since then (a couple of summers ago) I have really tried to want to sew, but it just isnt one of my interests (yet). Thank you for the encouragement and the honesty you share with us. Things we may think we are supposed to just accept without complaint are often struggles that we need Divine help overcoming. I share your blog when I can and I know many women who would benefit and enjoy this particular series. Thank you for the time and thought you put into your blogs. I, for one, am always blessed!

    Alicia

    ReplyDelete
  5. Thank you for sharing your story. The Lord has been convicting me about modesty. It is so much more than our outward appearance, it is also our attitude! You are such an encouragement to me! I am so glad I found your Blog!

    Kelly

    ReplyDelete
  6. My husband picked up a saying somewhere, not sure where: Long, Loose, and Layered. This does cause me to look at EACH outfit with an eye for modesty. I have worn cape dresses in the past, and some of mine still are. I am now part of a church which does not require it. Having been there, my caution would be: do not assume that every plain or cape dress is modest simply because it has the extra fabric. I have seen cape dresses so low or loose at the neck that they showed as much as women of the world. Or so tight under the cape that the shape was revealed anyway.
    That pride thing will trip us up in a minute. My heart aches when we claim modesty but aren't willing to admit there may be a better way. I have heard women say, "I feel I am as modest as I need to be." May we all be open to change/improvement. To say that I have arrived in ANY area of my Christian life is a dangerous thing.

    What a beautiful thing it is to see a joyful woman who is dressed modestly! An inner glow coupled with a neat, modest, and feminine outfit is very attractive!

    Gina, God bless your openness. May your daughters catch your vision for modesty. Do you have any thoughts on how we dress them when they are little?

    Regina

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Regina -
      What a good way to remember three descriptions of modest dress! Like you, I have been saddened by some of the cape dresses I've seen which was one of the reasons I was reluctant to where one myself. And thank you for the reminder that we should never settle into a rut but always seek to grow more.

      Do you have any insight on dressing little girls? I'm still trying to figure that one out! My girls are quite active and I have to insist that they wear shorts under their dresses because they seem to have no idea how to keep their skirts down!

      Blessings,
      Gina

      Delete
    2. I too struggled with modesty dressing for my 5 girls, I settled for divided skirted dresses, jumpers and skirts. They were easy to make and for them to wear and when they were upright as young ladies should be they looked like pleats in the skirts. I also used panteloon type shorts.

      Delete
    3. I also have a question, if I might ask it here. I would like to know more about head coverings and where to find patterns for the cape dress.

      Delete
    4. Can you email me? I'd be glad to discuss it with you!

      And since I have been asked often about cape dress patterns - look for a post on this subject in the coming weeks!
      Gina

      Delete
  7. Regina, thanks for that input on Long, Loose and Layered!

    I really like the play of words that will stick in my mind and also Long, Loose and Layered is so true!

    And I do agree with you on the fact that just because it is a cape dress it is modest, the first post quoted that "the plainest dress can be worn immodestly" and that definitely applies to a cape dress as well. Again, your husband's "loose principle" has so much as an answer to any dress that is worn, whether cape or not.

    I would love to hear others thoughts on not just how to dress our little girls, but how to instill a value of modesty in their hearts.

    ReplyDelete
  8. One insight I would like to share for dressing little (and not so little girls) is to be careful of all the frills. We tend to think "Oh, they're just little girls. That is sooo cute", (this can apply to excessive hair arrangements as well), when we are actually instilling in their little hearts a lust for beauty outside of the kind God created. As they grow, we need to instill in them that they keep their skirts down (even tho we dress them in bloomers underneath, good idea, Gina) and as they grow still older, we teach them to conduct themselves appropriately around boys and men. It may be that they don't always understand why we are asking them to wear loose fitting clothes (and sadly, their peers may not be required to do this) but since they are in our homes, and we are commanded to teach them and to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, we need to set some standards for them. And our examples of modesty and propriety in conduct goes a long way in teaching them. I hope I haven't overstepped protocol here, (don't know all the blogging rules) but I do look forward to hearing what others have to say.
    I have 2 daughters, both lower teens and they love to be modest. I love to see that in them and thank the Lord that they have chosen to let Him put modesty in their hearts.
    God bless.
    Marcia

    PS
    I have discovered that simple modesty does not need to equal frumpy. It can be tasteful, womanly and neat without needing to be slovenly or unattractive in a good way.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marcia-
      Thank you so much for your insights! A good caution on beginning early to instill a desire for inner beauty!
      Gina

      Delete
  9. It's me again...Oh how encouraging it has been to read these testimonies! I do have a 16 year old and a 6 year old girl. I thought I had it down pat with the first one. I realize now that her personality is definitely different. I suppose she would struggle more w/ the "lust for outward beauty and frills" but she did very well at keeping her dress down and being more "prim and proper". Along came daughter #2 who loves to climb trees with her brothers!! It's a real challenge, and we've found that leggings or shorts underneath are a must(always with a dress or jumper, though). However, it still is necessary to teach the principle of being aware of modesty in how she conducts herself.
    Then there is the issue of "we're just around the house, so we can wear whatever." Because we have 4 boys, my husband asks that we respect them by keeping modest in the home as well. We feel that our home should be a safe place for them as free from temptation as possible, especially with the world around us being so saturated with lustful images.

    As our daughters get older I believe we also need to go farther and teach them about the special gift modesty is to a husband.

    And I'm realizing here what a blessing I have in a husband who has a heart for his girls/wife to be modest. He is so encouraging and helpful.
    May we each seek the Lord in this and be willing to grow!

    Regina

    ReplyDelete
  10. I love this post - thank you for it.

    I always make sure my daughter has shorts or bloomers on under her skirts. I don't want her to limit her activity yet (she's 6) because she likes wearing skirts and dresses although we don't mind shorts and pants at our house. I've started remindind her sometimes to keep her legs down and I think it's like manners: she will get better at it as she gets older. Plus, she sees how I sit and act in a skirt.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I, too, enjoy the discussion going on here! A curious, how many of you are told before certain functions, such as blackberry picking, "You are probably going to want to wear pants for that?" I've been wearing dresses/skirts only for over ten years now and I am still told by some people that pants would be more appropriate wear for that activity. I also have friends who say they would love to wear dresses all the time but that it isn't practical while you are hunting, hiking, farming, and so on. I do point out that it hasn't stopped me but somehow they just think pants are easier.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I, too, enjoy the discussion going on here! I'm curious, how many of you are told before certain functions, such as blackberry picking, "You are probably going to want to wear pants for that?" I've been wearing dresses/skirts only for over ten years now and I am still told by some people that pants would be more appropriate wear for that activity. I also have friends who say they would love to wear dresses all the time but that it isn't practical while you are hunting, hiking, farming, and so on. I do point out that it hasn't stopped me but somehow they just think pants are easier.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Tia, in old time Russia, women wore dresses all the time and they went mushroom and berry picking without any problem. I don't understand why many women have issues with wearing dresses and skirts these days. My friends and I wear long dresses to enjoy our walk in forests and even mountains.
      Peregrina

      Delete
  13. Tia, Kind of makes me chuckle to think of the women of years ago riding horses, picking berries and never thinking about their skirts being in the way!
    However, if you go back 100 years, their skirts were quite loose. To think of doing all of your farm chores in a tight skirt, seems binding and uncomfortable to me as well.
    Blessings, Jane

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've mentioned that to my friends, "Just how do you think women managed for all those years?!" They reply with, "That's why they started wearing pants!" Just excuses.

      Delete
    2. Exactly, even in nursing. Nurses in the past wore long dresses and head covering. Now, my friend has trouble at work as she (a nurse) insists to wear skirt when nurses are obliged to wear pants now. That's the world today, ladies.

      Delete
  14. Thanks so much for these posts. We have a saying here as well. "Neck to Knees, noboby sees!" This way my girls know what to expect and how we shop. Enjoy your day and God bless.

    ReplyDelete
  15. I was just thinking about little girls and bloomers.

    Those of you who want bloomers for your girls or even a good place to get modest clothes made to order, you may enjoy this site.......

    http://liliesapparel.com/

    ReplyDelete
  16. Gina-
    Thank you for these posts on modesty. It reminds me of how we first "met" and my barrage of questions on modesty. Thank you for always being open and humble!

    ReplyDelete
  17. I, too, have appreciated this series. As well as the approach with a godly attitude! It isn't about being "better", it is about living according to scripture and godly convictions. It is difficult to make dressing the girls in skirts/dresses a complete lifestyle because my husband is not yet leading in this area. I struggle with how much to step in. He is very supportive of me wearing loose/long/layered (love that saying). It is a challenge when outside family give gifts of clothing that are contrary to my choices for the girls. However, I have been able to see the Lord at work through waiting on Him. My 10-year old will mostly choose skirts and the like. It's hard for me to just not run in her room and throw the rest away!
    We still use shorts underneath because she is playing/helping constantly with the toddlers at home. I do see that she is beginning to understand more lady-like behaviors as she grows.
    Great series!!!
    Annie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You know, I am sure a submissive spirit is a huge part of modesty. God bless you as you wait on Him!
      Regina

      Delete
  18. What a great series, Gina!

    Haha, well, you know who I am and what I wear. Sometimes it's even hard for me to let my daughter wear a dress, but I try to bite my tongue and appreciate her sense of femininity, instead of telling her to put on a pair of pants because -- like somebody mentioned here -- "They might be more appropriate." If she wants to wear skirts and dress, that's great!

    I've always admired and respected you, and looked up to you as a godly woman! I also really admire the way you and Ed are raising your children. Just wanted to let you know that! =)

    ReplyDelete
  19. I did not grow up in a Christian family, but I did grow up in a Christian culture!

    All of us girls wore dresses to school, and starting at about age 5 we were gently encouraged to "keep those knees together" and to cross our ankles when sitting!

    We wore bloomers under skirts, thank goodness because many of us girls liked to hang upside down on the monkey bars, and yes, climb trees!!

    My grandaughter in will be 8 shortly and she still wears shorts under dresses, and I gently encourage her.."knees together please!"

    Loving this discussion. Thanks to all for sharing!

    I can see most activities unhampered by a long skirt or dress, but what do you all suggest for swimming?

    Looking forward to help in this area!

    ReplyDelete
  20. Swimming.....wondering what all of the rest have to say, but I definitely want to chime in here.
    My girls and I had always worn swimsuits with a t-shirt over top or a short and tank top combination.
    But, recently I bought my girls and I matching modest swimsuits from Creations by Savannah...

    http://www.etsy.com/shop/CreationsbySavannah

    She did an awesome job, the suits fit us perfectly and are quite comfortable. Savannah will do custom swimsuits to your own liking as she did for us.
    Now I can't wait for the weather to warm up!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you!! I just asked my husband this today. I had let him know there was swim dressed available and he suggested a swim shirt and shorts (for myself). My daughter has been in that combo for a few years. What's funny is I know I would not even be comfortable in that. I have been able to avoid swimming in public the past couple of years. But, this July we are headed on a vacation with his immediate family and I know he will need water help with our toddlers. I want to help without being immodest!!! I am excited to look into this!
      Annie

      Delete
    2. I have been enjoying the conversation here. I was eager to hear what you all do for swimwear - especially since our family is headed for the beach soon. We have been just wearing long knee length shorts with a t-shirt. It may not be ideal but it works.

      But we also choose to go to the beach during the off-season, like in May, so that we have the beach to ourselves. And we don't ever go to public pools.

      I'd love to hear what has worked for you.
      Gina

      Delete
    3. I should have added that I had Savannah add a small sleeve and a little longer skirt/pants to our matching swimsuits. The added benefit of not having shoulder sunburn is helpful. She will make them to your liking.

      Of course, you can make your own, from what I know, the spandex/swimsuit fabric is rather expensive though.

      Delete
  21. We have a pool at our place, and I have found a pattern for swimsuits that has worked wonderfully. There is a bodice with fitted sleeves, and a skirt. Then there are separate leggings that I make to just cover their knees. Their skirt comes about to their knees. That's for the girls- I've made myself one, and if I swim with our son, put a t-shirt or swim shirt on top, as I don't feel quite comfortable. Our girls are still young, but as they mature, I'm not sure if this pattern will still be modest... I've thought of putting a looser piece across the bodice, kind of like the swimsuits from liliesofthefield.com. The pattern I have is from modest-swimwear.net. I think our girls look darling in them, and not at all suggestive. I need to ask my husband about when we go to FL this winter, and the beach... I know we won't go to any with people on that we don't want to have to avoid looking at.
    Our boys wear knee-length shorts and swim shirts. I have bought swim shirts, but found cheap material to make them! All this coverage has the added benefit of protecting our sensitive skin without (what I consider to be) harmful sunscreens!
    We also swim boys/girls separately when anyone comes. And when we go away for the day/evening we invite other families to come. So far we do swim as a family, but every year we reevaluate, knowing where our children's hearts are. We do pretty much have a rule of hands-off play in the water... I love to hear how you all handle this.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Loving your posts Gina.

    I am from a background where long skirts (generally denim) and T-shirts are the general combo with a full head covering. Many mothers have their daughters in pants up until pre-teen. Then they believe the child will be able to make the decision themself.
    For myself I have had my daughter in skirts since she was two. We use leggings underneath, although not longer than the skirt (I feel that's kinda cheating.) Or if shes doing sport we have her in a "skort" which is fairly rare. Winter is great because she can wear stockings all the time. For her it's no problem, I actually didnt mind her in shorts, but as a two year old, she was continually insisting to wear a skirt like me, (which I guess is the lesson we want anyways.)

    For swimming I have a bathing suit, with a shirt (usually one of hubby's so its oversized and plain so it's not a "man's") and a long thick sarong. I try not to go deeper than my knees because once your whole body is wet, is basically defeats the purpose. Wet clothes cling and some worldly people have said it makes a man's mind wonder more.

    Mara.

    ReplyDelete
  23. i have read all your comments, and i myself have never dressed modestly. God has been showing me though a need to be modest. I do struggle with it tremendously. Prayers are appreciated. I have found long skirts I love and simple tops as well. Yet I must admit that many times I see that my heart must also seek to be modest. To please God. That yes even a potato sack could be worn indecently.
    I thank all women who brave this world pleasing God and desiring to be modest and to be known for their Godly spirits and not their outward appearances.
    For I moved into a mennonite community 3 summers ago. The women I have met and seen have been the ones that made me see my own indecency.

    So thank you to all women who are brave in Christ. You never know what your simplicity says to others. Some may mock you but others will come to thank you, like myself.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement. I will pray for you that God will direct you on how to dress in a God honoring way.

      Blessings,
      Gina

      Delete
  24. There is nothing wrong with the female body that any woman needs to be ashamed of or cover if she does not want to.

    It is also not a woman's job to manage male behavior through modest dress - men should behave appropriately and respectfully no matter what a woman is wearing. That is what civilized society expects of them. They are not cavemen or monkeys, nor are they superior to women in any way. Inappropriate male behavior is not a woman's responsibility.

    I am sorry that so many women seem to see their bodies as shameful vehicles of temptation, and also seem to view men as incapable of controlling themselves.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. To me modesty is not an issue of whether I want to cover my body or not, it is a matter of obedience to God. Modesty is His idea, not mine.

      I am not ashamed of the female body. It was created by God and is right, good, and perfect in the way that He made it. But just as we wouldn't wear fine satin dress into a pig pen, I want to protect and cherish this treasure that God has given me. It is an honor, not a shame.

      Thanks for reading.
      Gina

      Delete
  25. I think Gina understands the point of the above Bible passages - that beauty is on the inside and covering oneself in beautiful objects doesn't fool anyone. I think after that everyone gets a bit obsessed with the details. I like the idea of removing trinkets and distractions and making one's appearance simple. I like that you feel empowered by your simple uniform (I hear the same thing from women in other cultures who also adopt a modest style). I think it is not the correct interpretation to wear covering so as to 'hide' the body; to not swim as it will make clothes cling to the body; to not wear plain/modest pants which make climbing/stretching legs out (it actually really does; do you see anyone climbing a mountain in a skirt?) easier as you feel a skirt is the only suitable modest item; or to discourage a child from climbing/doing rough outdoors play (exploring God's world, for sure?) because of the need for a skirt (a child has the blessing of inner beauty; and is asexual so there is no need for modesty from that account; a child is also learning about the world and is not yet ready to learn about herself) - all of these things I think are details confusing the real reason for the modest clothing. Failing to see the forest for the trees, perhaps. Otherwise, Gina you sound like a peaceful lady, I hope you have love for all and not only those in your family and community - and I'm an atheist!

    ReplyDelete
  26. I have been reading this post as well as the comments. My mom took me to church all my life and I was taught to be separate from the world. I was not allowed to wear anything above my knees, pants or dresses. Being separate from the world also meant that we didn't go places that were "worldly". (I was made fun of and put down just for not doing that). God started dealing with my heart about 15 years ago at the age of 18 or 19 about laying aside my pants and only wearing dresses. When I submitted to him and only started wearing dresses I felt like such a weight had been lifted from me. God has blessed my life in so may ways. The obedience is truly better than the sacrifice. I totally agree with you about modesty beginning as a change in the heart. I heard it preached that an inward change will make an outward appearance and it is so true. I was in a relationship at the time these changes came about with a man that I was about to marry. That didn't work out because of the changes that I made because it changed him too! God placed another wonderful man in my path and we have been married for 10 years. He don't know a thing about my previous life in pants. He wasn't a Christian when we married but he has always had a gentle loving spirit and encouraged me to be a better Christian. He never made fun of my dress but encouraged me to stay modest. He always said he wasn't looking for a girl that looked like the world but one that was truly set apart (I am not taking any credit for being set apart, that is all God) God saved him about three years ago and I couldn't imagine my life any other way. Just wanted to encourage others to keep being modest because it truly is a blessing and not a curse. I truly believe God will reward those that love Him and keep His commandments.

    ReplyDelete
  27. I truly respect your decisions to dress modestly, but also want to give a word of caution. You can fully follow scripture to a "T" and completely miss the point of it. That is what the Pharisees did. They were more concerned with following the law than loving God. The Pharisees loved following "the rules" and they hated Jesus. In fact, they killed him. Jesus challenged their laws and he would even break them! I think you may be missing the point. You are too focused being modest and not drawing attention to yourself that, ironically, you are doing just that. You ARE drawing attention to yourself by the way you dress. Oddly enough, why is it ok for men to wear pants??? In biblical times, men wore dresses just like women did. So, how is it ok for men to adapt to "wordly ways" by wearing pants ---when NO ONE did in biblical times---but it is not acceptable for women to. If you want to follow the Bible word for word, then men should still be wearing dresses as well. Oh, and also believe they were commanded to not cut their hair by their temples or shave their beards either. Why pick and choose which things we are to follow and which we are not to follow--it doesn't make sense. I feel as though you are missing the heart of God on this and that you have instead taken up the "religous spirit" that can be so dangerous and deceptive. Just like the pharisees. I am in no way trying to discourage you and how you want to dress. I respect you wanting to please God. But I wonder if it is really what GOD is wanting you to do...

    ReplyDelete
  28. Greeting Gina,
    I found your blog from another site. Thank you so very much for this post on modesty. And I definitely want to thank you for the caution on pride. I dress Mennonite and I wear a covering because this is the way God desires me to dress but I have unknowingly in my heart been prideful. Ouch!
    You see I'm the only one in my Baptist church who dresses modestly and wears a headcovering and it gets so lonely at times.
    Anyway, I thank you for your post. If you think of me this weekend please pray. I will be at a women's retreat with over 200 women from various Baptist church and I as always the only one who dresses the way I do and believe the way I do.
    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi Gina,
    This is a really great topic for Christians to pray about. I live in the UK in a major Metropolitan region. I don't know if you know how secular England is, but modesty isn't even on the agenda. I have been convicted to dress modesty-shoulders to below knees covered (when seated) -and have been verbally abused by strangers at the checkout for being frumpy. I believe that my dressing modestly is pleasing to God and mandated by scripture. As some others have said it is difficult to do this in isolation and I thank you for encouraging and informing the wider Christian community.
    Thanks, Lyn

    ReplyDelete
  30. Hi Gina,
    I just found your blog, and I really enjoy it. My family is Christian, but my mom and I wear pants most of the time. Lately, I have been feeling like I should only wear dresses. I don't think my mom shares my conviction. I feel alone. Do you have any advice for me?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I suggest you discuss your preference with your mom in a non-judgemental way and see if you can come up with an acceptable decision.
      Blessings,
      Gina

      Delete
  31. Gina, I am new to your blog and I am so encouraged!!!! I am not Mennonite, but I am a sister in the Lord, saved through the blood of Jesus Christ. Thank you for so much insight. I will visit regularly.

    ReplyDelete
  32. I enjoyed reading your thoughts in modesty.
    I wanted to share this link with you I was introduce too by some of of single friends:

    Bathsheba.http://www.gloriouschurch.com/pdf/the-sin-of-bathsheba.pdf

    I enjoyed this article because it gave a me deeper view how to view modesty and talks with my elder have helped me learn more about it. I feel like any women or young girl should read this to even get a glimpse on what modesty is and how not dressing modesty can lead to sin in our lives or even causing our brother to stumble.
    If I feel like something isn’t modest I will usually ask the family I live with if I’m doubting myself. I have also asked other brothers and sisters I’m close to if they feel like I’m not dressing right to let me know.

    I’m Apostolic Christian(not sure if you heard of our denomination) you can go to apostolicchristian.org to find out more about us. I’m terrible at explaining.

    ReplyDelete

I love to hear from you.

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails