Hemlines and Hearts

It is that time of year again! Why is it that so many people want to display their bodies in such an immoral way? The answer to that question can be summed up in the word "Worldliness." Of course, Christians are told not to love the world (1 John 2:15). We are told to be transformed rather than conform to the world (Romans 12:2). This should not be a major issue for Christians, but it obviously is.

In the fourth century A.D., John Chrysostom wrote about the problem of immoral dress.
"You allege that you never invite others to sin. You did not by your tongue, but you have done it by your dress and deportment more effectively than you could by your voice. When you have made another to sin in his heart, how can you be innocent? You sharpened and drew the sword. You gave the thrust by which the soul is wounded.... Tell me whom does the world condemn? Whom do judges punish? Those who drink the poison, or those who prepare and give the fatal draught? You mingled the execrable cup; you administered the potion of death. You are so much more criminal than poisoners, as the death which you cause is the more terrible; for you murder not the body, but the soul.... Nor do you do this to enemies: not compelled by necessity nor provoked by any injury; but out of a foolish vanity and pride."

Chrysostom certainly let people know where he stood on the subject!

I want to recommend a website for parents and teens. First, let me say that I do not endorse any denominational material on this site. However, it is an excellent site for imformation on how one (esp. girls) can dress modestly and still be "fashionable." The site is purefreedom.org. Just click here to go to this site. One great thing about this site is the "Truth or Bare" modesty test. It helps girls and parents know if articles of clothing are modest. This site was developed by Dannah Gresh. She saw a real need for young girls to understand the meaning and power of modest dress. I have not read her book "Secret Keeper", but based on her website, it must be excellent. You can find a link to this book in this blog (on the left side of the page).

It is no secret that immodest, immoral dress is linked to promiscuity among teens. Parents, we must take a stand. We must practice it in our lives, and we must preach it to our children. Don't wait until it is too late. We must be the adults in this matter. Our children's spiritual welfare is at stake!