When it comes to clothing, the Bible doesn’t directly address modern-day items like shorts. However, it does emphasize modesty and the intention behind how we present ourselves. Understanding the biblical principles of modesty helps us reflect on whether or not wearing shorts aligns with these teachings.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Good People
What Does The Bible Say About Wearing Shorts
Genesis 3:21
The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.
This verse teaches us that God Himself provided clothing for Adam and Eve after they sinned and realized that they were naked. It highlights the importance of modesty and the need to cover our bodies appropriately.
1 Timothy 2:9
I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,
Here, the Apostle Paul encourages women to dress modestly, emphasizing that their focus should not be on outward appearances but on their inner character. This verse reminds us that true beauty is found in a gentle and quiet spirit, rather than extravagant clothing or accessories.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.
These verses remind us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and as such, we should treat them with respect and honor. Our clothing choices should reflect our understanding of this truth and our desire to honor God in every aspect of our lives.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
This verse encourages us to not conform to the standards and fashion trends of the world but to allow our minds to be renewed by the Word of God. Our clothing choices should align with God’s will and reflect His values rather than the shifting values of society.
1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
This verse reminds us that God places greater importance on the condition of our hearts than on our outward appearance. While it is essential to dress modestly, our clothing should not be the sole measure of our worth or significance in God’s eyes.
Proverbs 31:30
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
This verse emphasizes that true beauty is not found in external appearances but in a woman’s reverence for God. It encourages us to prioritize spiritual qualities and character traits over fleeting beauty trends.
Matthew 23:27
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.
These words from Jesus serve as a cautionary reminder that focusing solely on outward appearances can lead to hypocrisy. While it is essential to dress modestly, our hearts and attitudes also need to align with God’s truth and righteousness.
1 Peter 3:3-4
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 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.
These verses encourage women to focus on inner beauty rather than lavish external adornments. God values a gentle and quiet spirit and teaches us that this is where true beauty lies.
Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
This verse reminds us to do everything, including how we dress, in a manner that aligns with our identity as followers of Christ. Our clothing choices should honor God and bring Him glory.
1 Corinthians 10:23
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything—but not everything is constructive.
While wearing shorts may be permissible, this verse reminds us to consider whether our choices are beneficial and constructive. We should dress in a way that respects our bodies and the people around us.
Matthew 6:28-29
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
Jesus reminds us in these verses that God cares for even the flowers of the field, adorning them with beauty. Our clothing choices should reflect simplicity and trust in God’s provision, rather than anxiety or excessive focus on fashion.
1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Just as God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances, our value and worth are not determined by our clothing choices. While modesty is important, we should remember that our character and actions are what truly matter in God’s eyes.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything,” but I will not be mastered by anything.
Although wearing shorts may be within our rights, we should consider whether it is beneficial and whether it masters or controls us. Our choices should be guided by principles of love, modesty, and self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.
As followers of Christ, we are called to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit, including self-control. Our clothing choices should reflect these qualities and demonstrate our commitment to living a life that honors God.
Ephesians 5:3-4
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
This passage encourages believers to avoid anything that hints at sexual immorality or impurity. Our clothing choices should reflect purity and modesty, and our speech should be full of gratitude rather than obscenity or crude joking.
1 Timothy 4:12
Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
These verses encourage young believers to set an example through their speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Our clothing choices should align with this call to be a positive influence on those around us.
Proverbs 29:25
Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.
This verse reminds us that our clothing choices should not be based on a fear of man’s opinions or judgments. Instead, we should trust in the Lord and seek to please Him above all else.
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
This verse reminds us of our intrinsic worth and beauty as God’s creation. Our clothing choices should respect and celebrate the unique masterpiece that He has made each of us to be.
Proverbs 11:22
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.
This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that beauty without discretion is of little value. Our clothing choices should be guided by wisdom and discernment, reflecting our understanding of appropriate modesty.
1 Corinthians 16:14
Do everything in love.
This simple yet profound verse reminds us that love should be the motivating factor behind all our actions and choices. Our clothing choices should be made with love, both for ourselves and for others.
Proverbs 31:25
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
This verse describes the woman of noble character who is clothed with strength and dignity. Our clothing choices should reflect these qualities, bringing honor to ourselves and glory to God.
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
As God’s chosen people, we are called to live differently and stand out from the world. Our clothing choices should be a reflection of our identity as a holy nation, demonstrating our commitment to representing God’s character and values.
Romans 14:21
It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.
While this verse specifically addresses a different context, it teaches us to consider how our choices may impact others. Our clothing choices should take into account the feelings and convictions of those around us, seeking to promote unity and love.
James 2:2-4
Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
These verses caution against showing favoritism or making judgments based on outward appearances. Our clothing choices should never be a reason to discriminate or treat others unfairly, but rather an opportunity to demonstrate love and acceptance.
Proverbs 31:21-22
When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
This verse paints a picture of a woman who cares for her household and ensures they are well-clothed. Our clothing choices should also reflect a desire to care for ourselves and others, promoting warmth, comfort, and dignity.
1 Corinthians 14:40
But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.
These words remind us to approach all areas of our lives, including our clothing choices, with a sense of propriety and order. Our attire should be appropriate for each occasion and reflect a heart that seeks to honor God and others.