In other words, in its general sense, modesty is about humility and seeking to avoid offense - which is the opposite of egotistic attention-seeking. As we examine the more specific area of sexual modesty in dress, it is important to keep this more general definition in mind. In our foolish vanity, we human beings tend to focus on outward appearances. Not God. Scripture is clear: it's what's on the inside that matters.

Jesus reminds us that evil is still at work, that life is not fair, that bad things happen, even though he has come with the good news of the kingdom. God is not the only one at work. Not all actions in the world can be attributed to God. God often gets blamed for every event that occurs, but he is not the cause of every event. There is moral evil which is caused by the free will of individuals. There is natural evil which is caused by the structure of the material universe.

Jesus uses this parable to encourage us always to pray and not give up, even when the circumstances are dire. If an unjust judge will eventually act because of the persistence of a poor, defenseless widow, how much more will God, who is not like the uncaring, unrighteous judge, but is merciful, patient, and eager to assist us in all things, act on our behalf. Jesus contrasts the way of the world with the way of God's grace.

But sometimes we do not know what is best to do. Stopping to help people who have been injured by the side of the road is one thing, but what about giving to panhandlers? Christianity Today asked three different Christian thinkers to weigh in on whether Christians should always give money to people on the street who ask for it. Gary Hoag, the Generosity Monk, who has dedicated his life to encouraging Christian generosity, said to give to them freely. He told the story of C.S.