There is so much wisdom to be found in the book of Proverbs. One I’ve pondered often is, “Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good” (Proverbs 14:22). Sharing his insights into this verse, a visiting preacher at my church pointed to Adolf Hitler, the Nazi leader who masterminded the murder of six million Jews. He noted that Hitler “devised evil,” that he planned evil, as meticulously as a bride plans her wedding.
So, how do you become a Godly wife?
A Good Wife Plans Good You and I can choose to plan for good or plan for evil, but as God’s beautiful women we are called to do good! So, make it your goal to set sail every day on a course of doing good toward your husband all day long.
Practice Your Plan Don’t be content with merely planning to do good. Follow through on those good intentions! Put your plan to work. I read somewhere once that a goal without a plan is just a hope without priority. When we write things down and place intention behind our goals, that's when we enable our selves to act on carrying them out.
Put the Plan in Place
If you need help with putting a plan in place, the book of Proverbs can help with that too. The last chapter of Proverbs begins with a young prince learning from his mother what should characterize his reign as a godly king. This godly and wise mother gave him a description of the kind of wife he should look for. She asked, “Who can find a virtuous wife?” This mother points out that such a woman is rare but explains how finding such a woman is worth both the time and effort it takes.
God clearly gave us a plan in these verses. Every part of our life can easily be mapped out by utilizing this as inspiration:
- Marriage — Proverbs 31:10-12 This amazing woman demonstrated impeccable loyalty to her husband and earned his trust and confidence. Because of her thrift and industry, she added to her husband’s wealth and reputation and her family’s comfort.
- Work Ethic — Proverbs 31:13-24 This enterprising lady was compared to a merchant ship that travels to distant lands to seek clothing, food, and items to be bought and sold for profit. She was a “realtor” who bought, improved, and sold land. Her physical strength and endurance seemed inexhaustible as she rose before dawn and worked far into the night caring for her family and household, which were her foremost priorities.
- Character — Proverbs 31:25-27 This magnificent woman was said to be clothed in “strength” and “honor,” which described her character. Her inward character gave her the outward confidence to face the future with its unexpected challenges. She took what she had learned and passed it on to others with wisdom, all the while displaying a heart of kindness.
- Family Life — Proverbs 31:28-29 Because of her unfailing love and ceaseless energy, the Proverbs 31 woman was highly respected, not only by her community but most importantly by her family. There is no greater joy for a mother than for her children to grow up to praise her as a source of the wisdom that made them godly. But her highest praise came from her husband who said, “You excel them all” (v. 29).
- Spirituality — Proverbs 31:30-31 The book of Proverbs begins with a reference to the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom. As the book concludes, this same quality is again seen in the life and heart of this exceptional woman. She may have been hardworking and an exceptional businesswoman, but her true source of power was her devotion to God.
RESPOND:
Dear Lord, I’m relying on Your grace to show goodness to my husband—and then to others—as I go about my day. Thank You for Your Word and Your Spirit that guide me. Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES:
In Beautiful in God’s Eyes, Elizabeth George guides women through the popular Bible verses in Proverbs 31 to show how God defines beauty and reveals His plan for a woman’s success.
REFLECT:
What characteristics of the Proverbs 31 woman do you see in yourself?
REMEMBER:
God says, "A woman who fears the Lord shall be praised!"
