All the world’s a stage…
Here comes another Heather confession…I’m an attention seeker. I love being in the spotlight. Give me a stage any day.
photo credit: SnaPsi Сталкер
Not just in performing arts, even in conversations I find a way to focus the attention on me. Talking about my problems. Giving my advice. Directing conversations back to little ole me.
Once again I’m struck smack in the face with another symptom of pride: “using attention-getting tactics”. Unfortunately, these tactics aren’t limited to my words. Sometimes I even hope to get attention/positive affirmation through what I’m going to wear. Seeking comments like: “You look so cute!”. “Where did you get that top?” “love your necklace”.
HEAR ME…I am NOT saying that wearing cute clothes and name-brand accessories is wrong. It’s my heart that’s wrong most of the time. It’s my heart that is self-centered. It’s my motivation for spending money on a cute new outfit. It’s the “why” behind my choice of attire that is the problem. When I buy something or put something on, I need to ask myself am I seeking to get attention?
True modesty…
I just read the book “Give them Grace” by Elyse Fitzpatrick (book review coming…fyi) and there was a section that struck me in regards to this idea of “attention-getting tactics”. Here is the quote:
“Modesty is commonly defined in an overly simplistic way-don’t wear this, do wear that-but true modesty that eventuates in modest dress is much deeper…The modesty that we see in the beloved Son’s life is a refusal to show off or insist that everyone give him his due. He didn’t proclaim his greatness in the streets (Matt 12:19); he didn’t show off in front of his enemy (Matt 4:1-11)…He had nothing to prove, and he lived humbly because he loved us and never showed off.”
Christ did not flaunt that He was the Son of God. He did not show off his power by doing unnecessary miracles. In fact after performing a miracle He frequently instructed the recipient to not share about it with others. He is our ultimate example of humility and modesty.
We can even be proud of our attempts at being modest. At purchasing only clothes from resale shops. We need to examine our own hearts in all things to know if we are attempting to get attention or if we are demonstrating true humble modesty.
- a sweet friend who encompasses humility, modesty, & gentleness…captivating!
Are there women in your life that are stunning but aren’t consumed with drawing attention to themselves?** Aren’t you drawn to them because of their hearts? Their beauty comes from within…”Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” (1 Peter 3:3-4).
Lord, transform my heart. I want to draw attention to You and not myself. I want my motivation to be showing You off. Give me a modest, gentle and quiet spirit. I know that you made me uniquely. My personality may be more outgoing and loud, but keep me humble. May my words, choices, actions be driven by my desire to serve others and You for your glory. Amen.
Check out more symptoms of self here.
**there are sooo many women in my life who demonstrate true modesty and humility. I am very thankful for God surrounding me with those who prize inner beauty!
This is another really good one, Heather. Thank you for putting it all out there. And Amy is a great example of how I wish I had a heart like hers! Keep the great insight coming!
Would you be interested in cross posting this on Is This Modest, or writing a guest post on this topic?