Discretion/Modesty

by Ken Thomas

In Titus 2:4-5, older women are instructed to teach young women "to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet chaste..." "Discreet" basically means "having good judgment and self-control." In Proverbs 11:22 we learn that a beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a golden jewel in a hog's snout. Simply put, outward beauty without inward refinement and good judgment is an awkward combination.
There are many people that have not gained the ability to cope with their physical attractiveness. They have been praised, complimented, and many times "idolized" based only on their outward beauty. As Christians we need to beware of a sinful emphasis on outward appearance. Good judgment would lead us to avoid styles and types of clothing which are revealing, tight, or flashy. As the temperature rises, let us all beware of the temptation to wear clothing that is immodest and shows a lack of discretion. Short skirts may be back in style, but they should not be in style with the daughters of the Lord. Nor should the sons of God be seen with bare backs and thighs. Be discreet!


May 20, 1990



Back to the original article.