not to gasp. First of all, she was gorgeous! I had never seen a more perfect body. Then I realized... I didn’ t have to use my imagination … she had very little clothing on! Obviously, she had dressed for a“ hot” summer day, but we were not at the beach.
When we arrived at the park, we met up with her Dad. Within a few minutes she whispered to him.“ Dad, is this outfit scandalous?” He said,“ Well, honey, I guess if you have to ask the question, then it is.” Quietly reaching into her backpack, she pulled out a full cut shirt to cover her bare midriff, skintight halter-top and“ low … low rise” jeans.
Her Dad commented to me later.“ Her mother was just like her when we first started dating. She had no clue how others perceived her scant clothing. I had to be the one to tell her.”
For the first time, I realized it was possible that inappropriate dressing could be something other than an intentional decision. If there is not a parent or mentor to help guide those
decisions, teenagers choose their trendy styles from movies, TV, social media and fashion magazines. Again, I am not finding fault with fashion or fads. It’ s fun to create, but do it with discretion.
This is extremely important as you take the role of a leader. People are looking to you as an example. What standard do you want to set? When others look at you, what do they see? The subject of modesty in church leadership is a big concern. When you stand before the congregation, whether you are“ the” worship leader or just a part of the band on the platform, you are a leader. People are“ checking you out.”
When every curve or bulge can be seen, I promise you, there are many people having to close their eyes to have a spiritual experience … men and women alike. If a fabulous body is being flaunted, girls are caught up in a whirlwind of thoughts that range from envy, jealousy, criticism or self-degradation. The guys are fighting their own battle of passion that has been visually ignited.
Girls, let’ s be kind to the guys. Don’ t make it difficult for them. Think of them as a best friend who needs your help to keep a pure thought life. When they look at us, let their first thought be of Jesus … not a sexy body or lack of it. Save those“ sexy outfits” for a date night with your spouse.
The same is true for the guys. Tight clothing is not only uncomfortable but distracting. Be kind to the ladies. Let them see your gentleness, compassion and strength of character.
Now … getting to the“ sexy outfit” statement. Husbands and wives need to continue dating even after they’ re married. It’ s important to keep the“ fire of passion” alive for your spouse. Be the one they can’ t wait to get home to. I want to encourage you: be a“ jewel” on the inside but let your outward appearance be vibrant and pleasing as well. Exercise the“ romantic allure” that made your spouse fall in love with you in the first place. Sex is a beautiful thing. God ordained it to be shared between a married man and woman. Throw your sweats in
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