Thus far, our study of the Proverbs 31 woman has revealed to us her outstanding character and inward virtues. Verse twenty-two shows us a glimpse of her outward appearance: “She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.”
The Virtuous Woman is Well-Dressed.
The subject of women’s clothing is one that I approach with much fear and trepidation! I am not going to touch specifically on modesty in this particular post. I think it goes without saying that a woman who portrays all of the qualities we have seen in the previous verses – especially noting the trust that her husband has in her and her desire to do him good – would not choose to dress in a way that is meant to draw attention to her body.
The verse seems to imply, however, that this lady spends some time making sure that her wardrobe is the best that it can be. Sometimes I think we shy away from putting emphasis on our outward appearance, particularly our clothing, because the world goes to such an extreme in its preoccupation with current fashions. However, I think we can find a balance between being obsessed with style and taking the time to be neat and attractive in our dress.
First of all, as Christian women we are representing our Heavenly Father. Surely He Who made us feminine creatures and gave us all the beauty of a colorful world would delight in our enjoyment of lovely things.
Secondly, I am in a sense an ambassador for my husband. If I were to see one of his coworkers in the grocery store, I’d hate to be so embarrassed by how I was dressed that I’d need to hide behind a food display! If I were to walk into his place of employment or meet him for lunch in a public place, I want him to be pleased with how I’m dressed.
Thirdly, I want to set an example for my daughters. As much as I may try to shield them from worldly influences, they will still see what the world holds up as beautiful women who will undoubtedly be dressed in clothing that is less than desirable for Godly young women. I want to be a model for them of someone who dresses nicely while still being modest.
I know how difficult it can be to find clothes that are modest and stylish. It often takes more time and money to locate apparel that meets these requirements, but it is an investment that is worthwhile. When I’m going on a shopping trip, I try to remember to pray that the Lord will lead me to just what I need. Since I know that He wants me to dress modestly, would He not guide me to those garments that I should buy? I have also know women who dress beautifully in clothes they have found at consignment and thrift stores at very reasonable prices.
I am certainly not as consistent as I would like to be in this area and welcome suggestions or tips that you may have as I seek to be a virtuous woman who dresses in a way that bring honor and glory to her Lord and is a blessing to her family.
What a great post! I think you're right about looking nice. This was a big deal for my mother. She never wanted to embarrass my father or us when she was picking us up from school.
I totally agree with modesty, but regarding the verse i particular I once read that purple was a color that king or royalty would wear, it was expensive clothing that we are talking about here!!!!
SO to say that she was able to afford this type of clothing was because she was able to be a good steward of money is a very interesting take on it!
So she is dressing like royalty, because she is working unto the Lord and under her husband headship and she is blessed by it 🙂
Renee
This is a great post – and I agree with Renee too, purple is the colour of royalty, so it is very interesting to note that this wonderful woman did not mind spending a little extra to make herself look perfect for her husband. The fact that she was able to make her own fabrics with which to make her clothing probably made this elegant dress code easier to afford. I don't think this gives us an excuse to over-spend on clothing though, and if we can find the same piece of clothing for a lower price, there is no need to get the expensive one for the sake of a name on a tag!! The fact that everyone wears every colour now does change things somewhat from the day of the Prov. 31 woman, and I think the thing we need to remember is to take this in proportion to the whole passage – we must not spend unwisely, but at the same time we must dress modestly, elegantly and in a way that makes our family proud.
Love these posts, Tracey – they really make me think and consider the subject! 🙂
Dear Tracey,
What a refreshing post to read and one I agree with wholeheartedly!! I love how you stated that there is a balance between trying to shy away from today's fashions and yet doing what we can to look our best in a godly manner. I, too, pray before shopping trips and while I'm at the store…and even after I have a few items in my basket…I usually ask Him to help me put back anything I shouldn't take home! 🙂 I am all about thrift and clearance and shopping my own closet once in a while. Most of all, thanks for the affirmations to please our Father in this aspect of our lives. I have been too quick to neglect 'doing my best' in this area ~ and you've inspired me here. 🙂 I am always inspired when I watch an old classic film where ladies are dressed like ladies ~ distinguished, modest, and lovely. I'm always saying…I could do that! I always wonder how we got to the fashions we did today…and where those ones went? Anyway, I like to draw inspiration from generations past sometimes. Have a great rest of your week and have fun at Patch tonight! 🙂
I'm reading thru several of your Proverbs 31 posts and I just wanted to say that I love your "ambassador for her husband" take on things. I've read several bible studies on this women and that's a bit of a new view for me, but I see how it fits with the rest and I appreciate it. It's given me a lot to think about…