What do you think of when you hear the word “modesty”?

Interestingly, the typical pattern of usage for this word has evolved to include only a portion of its broader meaning. It’s most frequent use relates to conservative clothing and bodily appearance, especially for women – but does that truly represent its full importance?

Not even close!

While skirt lengths and midriff fashions should be properly addressed, an approach to life that has far greater significance lies just beneath the surface of this important topic. You may not have realized it, but there is much for young men to consider with respect to modesty too.

Getting to the heart

The truth is that manly modesty is a matter of heart. Interestingly, the first definition of “modesty” on Merriam-Webster.com is “freedom from conceit or vanity.” Just as that implies, real modesty encompasses an absence of conceit and vanity not only in dress, but also in speech and conduct. A modest man is one who:

- Lives with an outward focus on others rather than an inward focus on self

- Shows respect to others with his words, actions and appearance

- Places the best interests of others above his own desires and preferences

- Does all of these things genuinely and with humility

Paul was a man who powerfully argued for both the necessity and benefits of Christian values and conduct in the decades just after Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry concluded. Having been appointed to teach primarily those whom God was calling from societies where there had been little exposure to God’s way of life, Paul witnessed and addressed immodesty in every form.

Through wisdom given by God’s Holy Spirit, Paul predicted that societal problems with modesty would grow far worse than they were in his day (which was saying quite a lot). In a letter to the younger pastor Timothy, he cited the root cause of all problems with modesty when he said, “…in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves…” (2 Timothy 3:1-2, emphasis added)

The outcome

Sadly, God’s inspired word to Paul has proven true. Virtues such as humility and self-control that typify a man of modest character receive little focus in modern mainstream culture. Instead, arrogance and self-indulgence are promoted as strengths, rather than being exposed as spiritual weaknesses. These character flaws undermine all aspects of Godly modesty.

However, with God’s help, we can and should choose to live differently. While the truly modest approach to life requires that a man be meek and humble, it should not be confused with being timid or weak.

In fact, the Bible is filled with the encouraging stories of many modest men like Moses and David who lived bold and courageous lives in service to God and His people. True modesty complements and enriches strength and valor; it does not replace them.

You have everything to gain as a young man learning about God’s way of life! Ask God today for the help that you need to live a life of manly modesty.