Fashion That Never Goes Out of Style

Trends in clothing and accessories capture my interest. I like observing fashion and wearing clothes that are stylish. In addition, I love a bargain. When I worked at a clothing store that gave a discount, I was quite happy. As a training video told us, "If you can't exercise, accessorize."

There is nothing sinful about looking pretty, especially if I don't exceed my budget to do it. However, I am tempted to justify the time I spend researching fashions and the money I spend on clothes by saying that I get such great bargains in the end. I need to re-examine my wardrobe attitude to see if it is godly. I don't always like to think about it, but others are watching my example because I am in ministry. You, too,  can be sure that a peer or a teen is looking at what you're wearing.

• If my wardrobe is godly, it should be modest. "...women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control...with what is proper for women who profess godliness." As a fashion observer, I know this is difficult forwomen because the manufacturers make what sells and immodesty sells. I also know that men can be distracted in worship when women sitting in the pews in front of them are attired in strapless dresses. From that vantage point, it appears that some people left their clothes at home!
• A full closet is a big asset when getting dressed in the morning, but it is not worth much at the end of the day. "Do not let your adorning be external...let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious." There is not much value in showing people, by my clothes, that I clearly know that the '70s are back with a vengeance. Plus, style trends change. Instead, I want to be considered precious in God's sight. I should put my energies into dressing (my inner self) to impress God. That kind of beauty is imperishable.
• Investment dressing, picking quality items that compliment what I already own, will clothe me for years. Pursuing godly wisdom and practicing discernment in all areas of my life are investments for eternity.  "...keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck." Godly pursuits have a satisfying, beautiful result.

What will a well-dressed woman in ministry be wearing this season? This fashion-conscious lady wants to obtain a hidden, quiet beauty, which doesn't fade, comes adorned with wisdom and discretion, is precious to God and lasts a lifetime.