Many Bible words have been subjected to loose interpretations and the word modest is one such word. Generally, today’s passage is used to teach that a lady’s apparel ought to be loose fitting and flowing. Though this is certainly true, that is not the primary interpretation and application. Something that is modest is something that is not extravagant. In fact, the Lord placed an explanation within the passage. The lady was not to adorn herself with such items as “gold, or pearls, or costly array.” In other words, a person should not dress in a way that would purposely draw the attention of others to the attire itself (see 1 Peter 3:3-5). This includes insuring that clothes are not form fitting, but the application has a much broader context.
Far too many people allow themselves to accept unbalanced viewpoints. For instance, people focus on the glory of leadership while failing to realize the tremendous responsibility that comes with leadership. A student, for example, is only responsible for his own studies, while a teacher takes on the added responsibility for how he leads each of his students. A pastor who can’t rule well his own home has no business taking on the added responsibility of caring for the church of God (1 Timothy 3:4-5). An employee within a company is responsible to God for his own work. Yet, a company owner takes upon himself the responsibility for leading and caring for every individual affected by the company. With these truths in mind, we again focus upon today’s passage. James suggests that believers consider the responsibility that accompanies leadership before taking on a position of leadership.
