Studies Have Shown…
that our mood can be affected by what we wear and what we wear can be a direct result of our mood. Many times, whether consciously, or unconsciously, we choose our outfits to match our mood. But sometimes, we choose outfits to change our mood, (ex: feeling sad so wearing bright colors) hoping it will in some way pick us up.
Clothes can bring on positive or negative emotions. I had a red dress once that I got tons of compliments on whenever I wore it, from men, as well as women. It was comfortable, modest, and yet a little hint of sexy. I could literally go from day to night with it. I felt good in it no matter what my mood was.
Prior to that, though, black clothing brought on negative feelings for me due to years of listening to the lies of Satan. Thankfully, my stepmom put a stop to that in one short, powerful, conversation. (Read “A Self-Esteem Boost” post)
I had a friend who when she loved a pair of shoes, she’d buy them in a few different colors. That way, no matter what outfit she wore, she could wear her favorite shoes with it.
As Christians, sometimes we take the belief that thinking about fashion, and actually wanting to be fashionable, is a sin. And people will often use 1Peter 3:3, 4 as proof of that: “Do not let your adorning be external, the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear. But 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.”
Some versions read: “Your adornment must not be merely the external…” because there’s no way that God intended for us not to pay attention to fashion. He just doesn’t want us focusing more on that than the things that matter, like our hearts. Or to follow trends that don’t line up with His pure and modest character.
When I was having depressive episodes, it showed in my physical appearance. I would wear things that weren’t becoming, or not comb my hair, or both. There were days that I just didn’t care how I looked because I felt useless and unloved, so I figured, what did it matter what I had on. I know we all have those days when you just throw on some sweats, a baseball cap, and go out praying not to run into anyone you know…LOL! But hopefully, that’s not the day-to-day.
“In dress, as in all things else, it is our privilege to honor our Creator…We should seek to make the best of our appearance.” E. G. White; Child Guidance; Ch. 64
GOD CARES ABOUT OUR DRESS
Some people think it’s a godly thing to not want to bring attention to ourselves by dressing bland and looking unkempt-which, of course, DOES bring attention. But as Christians, we really should want to bring attention to ourselves because it’s not really us that people are seeing, but Christ. And when people approach us because of our humbleness, cheerfulness, and loving spirit that radiates from the inside out, it gives us a grand opportunity to then witness, verbally, for Him.
Ezekiel chapter 16 tells us what God does to (Jerusalem) us, His chosen, after saving us from our lowest point. He enters a covenant (a binding promise) with us, washes us and covers us in embroidered cloth, fine linen, and silk. Then He adorns us with bracelets, a chain, and a crown. He bestows on us His beauty.
And the clothing appointed to the priests in Exodus 39 to carry out the sacred tabernacle services were of blue, purple, and scarlet thread, fine linen, pure gold and precious gemstones.
As His children, we’re always in service to Him. Whether on a mission trip or at work, we are witnessing even if we don’t open our mouths. People are watching us. And since that’s the case, shouldn’t we also be arrayed in fine things that reflect His beauty?
Over the years, as I grow in my walk with Christ, I find my style changing. Old likes turning to dislikes and vice versa. My desire is to honor Him in all I do, including my dress.
“She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple…Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future.” Proverbs 31:22, 25 NASB 2020
