In the book of Proverbs, in the Bible, there is a description of the biblical ideal for a wife and mother, - the kind of wife that parents wanted their sons to marry. As you read Proverbs 31:10-31 you will see a description of what an excellent wife looked like in 970 BC. The terms may sound strange and outdated, however, like the rest of the principals of living found in the Bible, these traits are practical today.
The woman pictured may sound intimidating. Who can live up to this image? I think that these passages were probably not written about one particular woman. They were, more likely, a composite of the best qualities of a godly woman. You will notice that the ‘excellent wife,’ while she is very conscientious of how she manages her home and that her husband is well taken care of,
“She brings him good and not harm.” She shops to find special food and “She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family,”She is not confined to the home and to housework. She is also a business woman, shrewdly making the decision to invest in her business and working hard to make it successful.
“She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.”She is strong and she works enthusiastically.
She watches over her affairs. Money is used wisely for the family and home and business. She is a wise manager but is not selfish with her time and money.
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.”
In the book of Proverbs, the “excellent wife” is rewarded for her faithfulness and diligence. She is praised by her husband and honored by her children. This is an ideal result, but we know that often it is not the way things turn out. You may be in a situation that you are working hard at emulating biblical qualities, but your husband or family or friends do not value your efforts. This can be very disheartening and makes it hard to continue. It is important to note that more important than all of the accomplishments of the ‘excellent wife,’ is that she fears the Lord. It is this relationship with God that brings the wisdom, zest for living and godly qualities. Being faithful to God and diligent in following His word, brings its own reward.
Remember that your Heavenly Father sees the intent of your heart and He values you beyond measure. What better reward is there than that?
Walking With Women of the Bible
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For Such a Time as This
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