In a previous post, Dr. Timothy Paul Jones argued from Scripture that what our kids wear on the outside tells a lot about the condition of their hearts on the inside.

I don’t know about you, but I have two young girls and I need wisdom on this issue as they grow and mature.  I can see the danger of becoming too lenient and letting this become a non-issue or becoming too legalistic and letting this become too big of an issue. 

Here’s Dr. Timothy Paul Jones’ advice to parents in regards to clothing and modesty:

  1. Set clear standards and say no. The long-term building of [your child’s] character matters more than the momentary calm that compromise could achieve.
  2. Recognize that what is emblazoned on your children’s clothing is likely to be expressed at some point in their behavior.
  3. Admit that the need for peer popularity is over-rated.

These are his 3 condensed points.  You can read the whole article here.  But I think it’s worth noting that even though his points are true, he seems to leave out the most important thing–namely the heart and the gospel.  Where are the questions to ask your daughter like, “Why do you want to wear these clothes?  What’s your motivation?”  And “What does your clothing communicate to others?” 

These kind of questions help get to the heart of the issue and hopefully lead our children to the gospel.  I like what C.J. Mahaney says,

As women, you can detract from the gospel mission by dressing immodestly, or you can enhance the gospel mission by dressing in a way that reflects the transforming power of the gospel at work in you. Make this your aim: that there be no contradiction between your gospel message and the clothes you wear. May your modest dress be a humble witness to the One who gave himself as a ransom for all.