THE GODLY WOMAN (PROVERBS 31)

Dear Members in Christ,

The godly woman (Proverbs 31) 

It is an often-heard expression, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” What is the origin behind this oft-quoted saying? Is there any truth in it? The history behind this saying is obscure, and one source cites this as a phrase published in a U.S. newspaper in 1946, others attribute the source to homespun sayings from the Roosevelt era. Yet others trace it to the worldly feminist movement of the 60s and 70s. Which is correct? No one knows exactly, but whatever the origins, as Christians, we draw wisdom not from man’s words but God’s word.

We know that the Bible has this to say about the good and godly influence a virtuous woman can have upon those around her.  

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.” (Proverbs 31:10, 11)

Who is this virtuous woman?

The writer of the thirty-first chapter of the book of Proverbs lists many characteristics of a virtuous woman. In other parts of the Old Testament, we will find this Hebrew word being translated as “strength”, “might” or “valor” (Num 24:31, 2 Kings 5:1, 24:16, Proverbs 31:3) or “wealth” (Gen 34:29, Proverbs 13:22). It conveys the meaning of one who is held in high esteem for certain virtues, e.g. strength, wealth, power. But does it not seem strange that these qualities of valor, strength, and might are usually associated with men, but in Proverbs 31:10, it is used to describe a “virtuous woman”? The language leads us to the understanding that the writer is bringing forth a woman who possesses virtue and character that is highly sought after.

What characteristics define this “virtuous” woman? Herein is wisdom found within the context of the writer of Proverbs. The book of Proverbs contains many sought-after characteristics of a virtuous woman. For example, the quality of wisdom, as we read in Proverbs 14:1, that “Every wise woman buildeth her house…”. The book of Proverbs personifies wisdom as a feminine character, standing at the prominent places “She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors” (Proverbs 8:3). The virtuous woman is also described as gracious, for, “A gracious woman retaineth honor...” (Proverbs 11:16). She is a “crown to her husband” (Proverbs 12:4). Most importantly, these virtuous women can live out virtues in their lives because of the fear of the Lord. She is wise, gracious, prudent, for she lives a godly life, fearing God. This we read in Proverbs 31:30, “a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.”

The blessing of a virtuous and godly companion

The teaching from Proverbs 31 about the virtuous tells us of the tremendous blessing a godly and god-fearing woman can bring to those around her. Her children and her husband are immediate beneficiaries of her virtues.

“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” (Proverbs 31:27, 28).

Even her maids receive of her charity, for “giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.” (Proverbs 31:15). Her heart displays love, grace, and mercy for others, and “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.” (Proverbs 31:20). In all, we see a woman who is Christ-like in character. She is diligent in her duties, she is kind at heart, and her love and kindness are seen by others. Her testimony of godliness brings praise to God.

The world versus the wisdom of Scriptures

The conclusion of chapter 31 of Proverbs warns us of the deception of the world. “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain…” (Proverbs 31:30). This is the deception which the adversary uses to seduce many. The world extols external beauty, and many a youth have been drawn away unawares. But, “but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” A discerning young man who is praying for a life partner would do well to take good heed of this scriptural teaching, remember, “beauty is vain”! 

Finally, as Christians, we are all urged to be Christ-like. We (men and women) ought to be gracious, loving, and merciful in our dealings. But this portion of the book of Proverbs highlights the huge impact a godly woman can have on the lives of those around her. This chapter tells us the foundation for building the character of such a woman, that the person fears God. Truly, “a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” (Proverbs 31:30). Let this be the prayer of every one of us, that God’s Holy Spirit will guide the lives of women. Sisters amongst us, pray this prayer, “God help us to be the godly and Christ-like women.” Husbands pray for your wives, parents for your children, brothers and sisters, pray for one another, that we may all learn the wisdom from God’s words and live praiseworthy lives for Him. Amen.                       

In Christ,

Dn. Lim Seh Beng