The Greek words used here suggest that a Christian woman’s dress would be respectable and would show consideration for the feelings or opinions of others. How we admire our mature Christian sisters for dressing modestly! Discernment is another quality that all mature Christian sisters demonstrate. What is discernment? It is good judgment​—the ability to tell right from wrong and then to choose the wise course. Consider the example of Abigail. Her husband made a bad decision that was going to have a serious impact on his entire household. Abigail took immediate action. Her good judgment saved lives. (1 Sam. 25:14-23, 32-35) Discernment also helps us to know when to speak and when to keep silent. And it helps us to maintain balance when showing personal interest in others.​—1 Thess. 4:11. w23.12 52:8-9

The apostle Paul wrote those words to the congregation in Rome. The brothers and sisters there had learned about Jehovah and Jesus, had exercised faith, and had become Christians. God thus “declared [them] righteous as a result of faith,” and he anointed them with holy spirit. (Rom. 5:1) Yes, they gained a valid, wonderful hope. Paul later wrote to anointed Christians in Ephesus about the hope to which they were called. That hope included receiving “an inheritance for the holy ones.” (Eph. 1:18) And Paul also indicated to the Colossians where their hope would be realized. He called it “the hope that is being reserved for you in the heavens.” (Col. 1:4, 5) The hope of anointed Christians, then, is that they be resurrected to everlasting life in heaven, where they will reign with Christ.​—1 Thess. 4:13-17; Rev. 20:6. w23.12 51:4-5

The original word for “guard” was a military expression and was used to refer to soldiers who guarded a city and kept it safe from attack. The inhabitants of a guarded city slept in peace, knowing that troops were posted at the gates. Similarly, when the peace of God guards our hearts and minds, we feel calm, knowing that we are safe. (Ps. 4:8) As in the case of Hannah, even if our situation does not change immediately, we can still feel a measure of peace. (1 Sam. 1:16-18) And when we feel calm, we often find it easier to think clearly and make wise decisions. What can we do? When you are troubled, summon the guard, so to speak. How? Pray until you feel the peace of God. (Luke 11:9; 1 Thess. 5:17) If you are facing a crisis, persevere in prayer, and you will experience Jehovah’s peace as it guards your heart and mind.​—Rom. 12:12. w24.01 3:5-6