Personal reflection is a spiritual discipline that involves introspection and contemplation of one's life, actions, and relationship with God. It is a practice encouraged throughout the Bible, as it allows believers to align their lives with God's will and grow in their faith. The Psalmist exemplifies this in Psalm 139:23-24 : "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting."

The practice of personal reflection is rooted in the understanding that the human heart is deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), and thus, believers are called to examine themselves regularly. In 2 Corinthians 13:5 , Paul urges the church: "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?"

Personal reflection is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual one, involving prayer and meditation on Scripture. Joshua 1:8 emphasizes the importance of meditating on God's Word: "This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do."

Through personal reflection, believers are encouraged to confess their sins and seek God's forgiveness, as seen in 1 John 1:9 : "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." This process of reflection and confession leads to spiritual growth and maturity, enabling believers to live lives that are pleasing to God.

Modesty

Modesty, in a biblical context, refers to humility and decency in behavior, speech, and dress. It is an outward expression of an inward heart attitude that seeks to honor God and respect others. The Bible addresses modesty in several passages, emphasizing its importance for believers.

1 Timothy 2:9-10 instructs women in the church: "Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God." This passage highlights that modesty is not merely about external appearance but is closely linked to one's character and actions.

Modesty is also a reflection of humility, as seen in Philippians 2:3 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This humility is a key aspect of modesty, as it shifts the focus from self to serving and honoring others.

The principle of modesty extends to all believers, encouraging them to live in a way that does not cause others to stumble. Romans 14:13 advises: "Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way." Modesty, therefore, is an act of love and consideration for others, ensuring that one's actions and appearance do not lead others into temptation or sin.

In essence, modesty is a reflection of a heart transformed by the Gospel, seeking to glorify God in all aspects of life. It is a commitment to live in a way that reflects the holiness and purity of Christ, as believers are called to be set apart from the world.