Volume 43

This issue has been an interesting one to put together! We have had a very busy summer here on the farm, with company, farming and gardening, etc. Also, my printer hasn't been working properly lately, so I'm not sure yet with I'll be able to get this printed. On the other hand, though, I am really praising the Lord for providing a faster computer for me the last month -- it is such a blessing and has sped up the production process.

I was surprised and blessed with the number of submissions sent in for this issue. So many were received that I have included nearly a dozen of these "extra" articles online -- click here to see the list. All these articles have caused me to rethink some of my own standards and to prayfully consider just why I wear what I do. I pray you will be blessed by them as well!

(As a side note: Can you see "both sides" of the above graphic? E-mail me if you can't figure it out...I think it's pretty neat the way it's put together! :-) I don't know who the artist is -- I made the graphic by scanning in an old flier we've had for years.)

Here's an outline of what this issue contains:

Theme: Inward and Outward Modesty

From the Editress
By Abigail M. Paul
A very big thank you for the surprise birthday scrapbook, along with a couple photos!

Epistolography
Four pages of encouraging comments and feedback from readers.

Special WC Answer
By Kristen K.
Kristen answers the question from Vol. 41 on ideas for what to do after graduation. You won't want to miss her practical, Bible-based advice, plus a special poem she wrote at graduation in 1998.

Wise Counsel
Many insightful answers were received for the question on how to demonstrate friendliness to one who doesn't seem to respond. One excellent answer didn't fit in the issue -- you can read it here.

Modesty: An Issue of the Heart
By Emilee Elisabeth
This excellent article gives much food for thought!

Modesty: A Balancing Act
By Jennifer S.
This time Jennifer deals with modesty in her column, "Stepping in the Light."

Thoughts on Clothing
By A Sister in Christ
An important exortation against judging others by outward appearance.

Inward and Outward Modesty
By Charlotte H.
Have you ever considered that a lack of modesty signals a lack of respect for oneself, others, and, most importantly, God?

All Glorious Within
By Amanda O.
In her new column, "Gems From God's Treasure Chest," Amanda shares the importance of the King's daughter being "all glorious within."

Who's the Fairest?
Submitted by Hannah Joy G. of PA.
"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" The age-old question with a proper, Scriptually-based answer!

Examine Yourself
By Charity G. of Brazil
An honest look at the true meaning of modesty, including three soul-searching questions to ask yourself.

A Modest Appeal... From a Father's Heart
By Mr. Robert J. N. of MN
An important reminder from a father that our appearance conveys messages to those around us. Can people tell by looking at us that we have been with God?

The Story of My Life, Chapter 38
By Abigail M. Paul
Read about my most favorite pet ever -- my "Jemima" kitty. Also, learn about how I got glasses, and the interesting evening I had right after I got them. :-) Complete with 4 photos of our family from 1992.

A Price to Pay, Chapter 7
By Jolea J.
Find out how Aaron's father becomes angry at his son for reading the Bible, and then secretly takes the Bible home with him! What will happen next? Includes another excellent illustration by Cherish F.

The Joy of the Children
By Jana Baldridge
Learn how God gave courage to step out and help children in a new way -- a ministry to public and Christian school students! Complete with 3 photos.

Make Yourself a...Drawstring Backpack!
By Adrienne G.
Adrienne's clear instructions and helpful illustrations will inspire you to make this useful little bag!

The Bibliophile's Niche
After a hiatus of one issue, this column is back, with three book reviews.

Blessed Are the Pure in Heart
By Mrs. Gloria Y.
Read the thought-provoking account of "Bamboo" and learn the importance of wholly yielding to Christ.

The Outcome
By Jessica Lee D.
"What are the benefits of drawing near to God -- it is really worth it to give up our own way and trust Him?" A very inspiring article, including a lovely illustration also by Jessica.

Subscriber's Corner
In this issue, we meet Michelle W. from MN and her family, including two photos.

In The Garden...
Grandmother Denniston's column is full of encouragement and practical advice, as always!

Recipes to...Tickle Your Tastebuds!
HW Food Editor, Theresa W., has again compiled a selection of delicious recipes for us to enjoy!

Discover the Treasures of God's Wisdom!
By Rachel P. and Abigail Paul
The Daily Bible Readings for this issue are from 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, 1 & 2 Peter, and Ruth. Join us, and discover many "treasures" of wisdom!!

Online articles
So many excellent articles were submitted on the topic of modesty that there was no way I could possibly include them in the printed issue! I just "had" to share them with you all, though :-), so here they are -- I pray they are a blessing to each of you! I'm also including a few links to articles on modesty on other websites.

Please keep in mind that I do not necessary agree with every point made in every article listed here -- in fact, there's a variety of viewpoints represented! I have included each of these articles because they are thought-provoking and they motivated me to check out the Scriptures for my own and see what the Lord was directing for my life. I pray you'll be motivated to do the same!

The Gentle Art of Modesty
By Hannah Joy G.
Here you will find a collection of quotes and poems on modesty, followed by a humble, thoughtful article.

What is Modesty?
Excerpted from an article by Mr. Charles H. Shofstahl, and submitted by Mrs. Garnett B. of MO.

An Ornament of Great Price
This article by Kelsey M. answers the questions, "Why is modesty so important?" and "What has helped me to be modest?"

Poems on Modesty
Here are two poems by a mother, Mrs. Marcia M., on what is truly important in a lady's appearance.

Modest: Properly Restrained by a Sense of Propriety
Kristen K. wrote this article, and includes insights on modesty by other writers, as well as her own thoughts.

Women's Best Ornament
This article from 1850 has much insight for us today! Submitted by Emilee Elisabeth of MO.

The Outward Appearance of God's People: Does it Matter?
Tammy F. of Ohio submitted this hard-hitting article by Mr. Daniel Botkin.

True Beauty: Without or Within?
This essay by Jolea J. incorporates many Scriptures to show us the source of true beauty in God's eyes.

Articles on Other Websites
(These will open in a new browser window for your convenience.)

Modesty: The Long-Lost Virtue
Modesty, a Matter of Heart
The Christian's Appearance - Chapter 1
Modest Apparel for Christian Women -- What does the Word of God Say?
The Sin of Bathsheba
Practical Helps for Modest Dressing
She Maketh Herself Coverings: How Christian Women Should Dress
Conversation about Dress/Modesty, From "Beautiful Girlhood"
Women's Apparel - Modesty
Kathy's Modest Sewing Patterns Page
Portrait of a Godly Woman
Links to 23 Articles on Modesty
(Note: I haven't read all of these, but the ones I read were good!)