Godly Woman Characteristic – Adorns herself appropriately
Godly Woman Characteristic – Adorns herself appropriately is a part of the godly woman characteristics series. The previous post in this series can be found here.
With curves for miles, my fingers grazed the shining red beauty. With heavy anticipation and no small amount of fear, I drew closer. Stooping low, my heart started to pound, and adrenaline coursed through my veins. I needed just one chance! “She is a beauty, isn’t she?” asked the showroom manager. Startled, I stood up. “If only,” I said, laughing nervously. Smiling widely, he humours me by regaling all of the assets of the Aston Martin and why it is such an excellent investment. Clearly, he is humouring me because I am not even close to the wealth bracket to buy this car.
It was a work event, and I was invited to the Aston Martin showroom in the heart of London. Begging for some fresh air to graciously escape any expectations, I walked over to the showroom window. As the evening progressed, I became transfixed by the energy and excitement of the room and the stillness of the night outside. Peering outside, I saw a couple walking down the street holding hands. As I watched the lady passing by, I was mesmerized by how dignified she looked. I thought, “Now, here is someone who fits well with this beautiful car”. From her hair to her quietly stated jewellery and clothes to her walk and smile. She looked distinguished, full of grace, kind and gentle.
I remember being awed by her and proclaiming, “I am so not her!” This encounter started me on a journey of learning. I wanted to know what it meant to be a lady, and more importantly, a godly one.
Encouragement
Now, let me start here by encouraging you. This is not about comparisons. As humans, we compare ourselves a lot to others, often doing it with the wrong persons in mind. We were all created uniquely by God, and we are grateful for that as it would be hard to live in a world where everyone was the same. This uniqueness should encourage us to look deep within ourselves to respond to Paul’s charge below from a different lens.
I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,
1 Timothy 2:9
Some believe that Paul said this only for the people in Ephesus who dealt with many false teachings; others think this teaching is applicable today. No matter the side you choose, let us remember and keep at the forefront of our mind:
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
2 Timothy 3: 16-17
What does 1 Timothy 2:9 mean?
If we strive to become godly women, then 1 Timothy 2:9 should have some application in our lives. Only God can speak with us through our conscience if what we wear is pleasing to Him. I remember times I have worn outfits that I kept fidgeting in or pulling down because it was too short. My lack of comfort was a telling sign that what I wore was not pleasing God or bringing glory to His kingdom.
My hair is locked (braided), but my conscience is free because I know that the Lord led me to that decision. For years I was adding chemicals to my hair and body. When I felt the Lord calling me to eat no uncleaned items, I was restless at stopping there. I knew I had to go a step further and take care of my body holistically, which meant allowing my hair to grow naturally and not adding any chemicals to it.
What is really important for a Godly Woman who wants to adorn herself appropriately?
1 Timothy 2:9 is encouraging us as Godly women not to focus on the outside, but instead let us focus on what is more important, God. The Bible tells us,
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also… “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Matthew 6:21-24
If our heart’s desire is on beauty and charms, then we don’t have much space for God. How much time do you spend on beauty? Are you able to pray and read scripture in the morning, or is there not enough time because of your morning routine? I am guilty of this. I find myself rushing my time with God to make up enough time to finish everything else I need to do in the morning.
This is not to say that, as women, we should not take care of ourselves; we absolutely should as our bodies are Christ temple (1 Corinthians 3:16), but let it not control and override everything else. Do not let what we wear become a stumbling block for other believers or those outside the faith.
Food for thought
Like the beauty and grace of an Aston Martin, do we present ourselves daily in a glorious manner for the kingdom of God? Do what we wear create a stumbling block for others? Remember, a Godly Woman Characteristic – Adorns herself appropriately.
Prayer
Holy Father, great is thy faithfulness. Lord, it is easy to be caught in the world’s idea of beauty, cosmetics, and clothing. It is easy to want to look a certain way to please others. We know, Lord, that you are calling me to seek You first, to please You above all others. Thank You for continually working on me. I don’t want to be a hindrance for anyone that wants to grow closer to You. I desire to be a godly woman who adorns herself appropriately, bringing glory and honour to Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen