WHERE ARE THE WOMEN

 

Prov 31:10-31 

Where are the godly women in our society? I am not speaking of anyone in our church family. I am very thankful and fortunate to be surrounded by godly women from our church. I am speaking in a broader sense, where womanhood, and motherhood is under attack from our culture. For example: expecting mothers are called “birthing person” anyone who gives birth, this also includes transgender men, non-binary individuals, and cisgender women. This has been on my heart for the past many months, because today’s liberalism, and modern feminist movement, continues to destroy the family. We are living in radical times where people deny the simple biology of only two genders; and the attack on women continues to get louder and louder. The average person today can’t even define what a woman is; an adult female is the only answer to that question. I am not even talking about equal pay or equal positions in the work force. I see no issue with that, if you can do the job that is required without compromise. What I am talking about, is the way God intended for women to live in a broken, sinful society, I am talking to the Christian woman, whose high calling is to live holy.

What is your response to this kind of language being

used today by other women.

Here’s an eye-opening statement from the Declaration of Feminism, dating back to 1971. “The end of the institution of marriage is necessary for the liberation of women. Therefore, it is important for us to encourage women to leave their husbands and not live individually with men. All of history must be rewritten in terms of oppression of women. We must go back to ancient female religions like witchcraft.”

Annie Laurie Gayler, said in her article titled, “Feminist Salvation, she wrote, “Let’s forget about the mythical Jesus and look for encouragement, solace, and inspiration from real women. Two thousand years of patriarchal rule under the shadow of the cross ought to be enough to turn women toward the feminist’s salvation of the world.”

 

Hense my title, “Where are the women”, the true woman, who love their God given role to exemplify our great God, and King, with strength, not as inferior.

 

Here is a Biblical worldview, VERSES modern liberalism, and modern feminism. The Bible says….

 

Love your husbands……feminism encourages liberation.

Love your children…… feminism praises abortion.

Be self-controlled…… feminism promotes the “wild woman” lifestyle.

Be pure……feminism fights for sexual autonomy, encourages high body count.

 

Be working at home……. The feminist movement has encouraged women to get out of their homes and out of the “bondage” of homemaking.

 

Be kind…… the feminist movement has been one of anger and bitterness.

 

Be submissive to their own husband…… one thing you will never hear the feminists promote, it’s biblical submission. Feminism encourages women to rebel against submission and to be their own authority.

 

This is why John MacArthur said, “One of the most devastating and debilitating and destructive movements in our day is the Feminist Movement. It is changing not only the world, but sadly it is changing the church. And as a result, the Word of God is being dishonored.”

 

Do you realize ladies, that God has given you a great responsibility; and that is to love, and nurture, His wonderful creation...back to Him! Think about the very first created, soon to be, the first Mother.  “Eve”

Eve, the mother of all living, must have been a creature of unsurpassed beauty. She was finishing crown and the pinnacle of God’s amazing creative work. She was the last living creature to be called into existence by a holy God. She was actually fashioned directly by the Creator’s own hand in a way that showed particular care and attention to detail, because Adam was refined from dirt, where Eve was refined from Adam’s rib. She was a glorious refinement and a picture of humanity itself. She was Adam’s necessary partner who finally made his existence complete. Her own existence finally signalled the completion of all creation. Given that Eve was the perfect example before she sinned; God has also given us another wonderful example of a wife, a mother, that every woman should aspire to become.

Interesting to note about this portion in the Book of Proverbs… This final chapter of Proverbs contains two poems — the Wise King (31:2-9) and the Excellent Wife (31:10-31); both of which are attributed to King Lemuel, whom ancient Jewish tradition identified as King Solomon, but who is otherwise unknown. If Lemuel is, in fact, Solomon, that means the mother who taught her son these wise sayings about excellent character was Bathsheba, a woman known more for scandal than virtue. But perhaps Bathsheba taught Solomon about his ancestor Ruth (Matthew 1:5-6), who had a spotless reputation, and then Solomon could have penned this portion with Ruth in mind. After all, the passage parallels Ruth’s life in many ways. This section of Scripture is a glorious standard and role model for women to live a life of purity and praise, that is honouring to God first and fore-most.

 

Take for example several things that are commanded of Christian women/mothers in God’s Word:

 

Availability – morning, noon, and night (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)

 

Involvement – interacting, discussing, thinking, and processing life together (Ephesians 6:4)

 

Teaching – the Scriptures and a proper biblical worldview (Psalm 78:5-6; Deuteronomy 4:10; Ephesians 6:4)

 

Training – helping a child to develop skills and discover his/her strengths (Proverbs 22:6).

 

Discipline – teaching the fear of the Lord, drawing the line consistently, lovingly, firmly (Ephesians 6:4; Hebrews 12:5-11; Proverbs 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; 29:15-17)

 

Nurturing - by providing an environment of constant verbal support, freedom to fail, acceptance, affection, unconditional love (Titus 2:4; 2 Timothy 1:7; Ephesians 4:29-32; 5:1-2; Galatians 5:22; 1 Peter 3:8-9)

 

Modeling Integrity – living what you say, being a model from which a child can learn by “catching” the essence of godly living (Deuteronomy 4:9, 15, 23; Proverbs 10:9; 11:3; Psalm 37:18, 37).

 

Why would God put such emphasis

on the women?

I refer back to John MacArthur who said, “one of the unique features of the bible is the way it exalts women. Far from ever demeaning or belittling women, Scripture often seems to go out of the way to pay homage to them, to ennoble their roles in society and family, to acknowledge the importance of their influence, and exalt the virtues of women who were particularly godly examples”

 

Unfortunately, that role in society is becoming fewer and fewer as generations continue; especially observing many… young, and older women today.

 

Here are some of the trends in Singlehood for Women in Canada:

 

The rising in solo living: The number of one-person households grew from 1.7 million in 1981 to 4.4 million in 2021.

Age Factor: While women 65+ are often single due to higher widowhood rates, more women in their 30s-60s are choosing to live alone.

Declining marriage: The share of young adults (25-29) in couples dropped from 68% in 1981 to 39% in 2021. Reasons: Increased focus on personal growth, financial independence, career, and reduced social obligation to marry.

Urban trends: In some cities, educated single women outnumber their male counterparts.

 

Understand there is nothing wrong with being single, whether for a man or a woman, as Paul wrote, “To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am. But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” 1 Cor 7:8-9

(v10) in our text, calls a godly woman, “.... a virtuous wife, a role model or the ideal woman, she is a woman of valor, she is a symbol of wisdom. This Proverb is a picture of true biblical womanhood, presented by a noble woman to her son.

 

A GODLY WOMAN IS AN EXAMPLE OF GODLY CHARACTER AND GODLY VIRTUES. (v10-v12) 

Where are the women? The poem begins by asking, “Where one can find a fully capable woman”, evidently according to this poem they are a rare find. This woman is described as well-balanced and valuable to her husband. She is trusted by her husband; this means…. husbands and sons, we must encourage this in our homes, and in our society. We read in Prov 12:4 “An excellent wife is the crown of her husband” She always has her husband’s happiness in view constantly; this is a selfless act, which is polar opposite to the modern liberal, and feminist movement. She rewards all his kindness to her in benevolent acts; for kind words, she returns kind deeds. Her good is pure; she will do him good and not evil. (v12) she truly loves to serve and be used by God for her husbands good. Her good is not inconsistent; it is constant and enduring, whereas she and her husband live. (v12) We read in Genesis 2:18 woman’s purpose. “And the LORD God said “it is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him” This is her general characteristic of a virtuous wife an “excellent wife/mother” who is loyal to her husband. What this is saying is that her husband’s heart safely trusts in her, for she will do him well all the days of her life.

A GODLY WOMAN IS AN EXAMPLE OF SELFLESSNESS & HARD WORK. (v13-v24)

This is a woman who is fountain of energy, she is gifted with her hands and willingly, and she joyfully works using them. (v13)  She collects the best for her family (v14) She labours hard for her family (v15) She provides food for her family (v15) She is resourceful (v16 - v17) She knows how to budget wisely and she knows what to invest in that is going to benefit her family. (v18) She helps others (v20) 

This selfless attribute brings about blessing. “Whoever has a bountiful (generosity that person looks with a desire to give) eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” Prov 22:9

 

She anticipates the seasons, and prepares for them (v21)

She makes clothing for herself (v22)

She sells things from her handy work (v24)

This is the “Fruits, the joy of her labour” she is compassionate and her heart is concerned towards her family and those less fortunate.

 

(v23) reveals her husband is known in the village because of her excellent work not just behind closed doors, but out in the public square.

 

As one theologian wrote, “She is not the “not so great woman” who takes a great man and drags him down to averageness. No, she is a great lady that may take a average man and lift him to greatness. She makes him better than he could be without her.”

  

The praise and success she laboured to bring,

is to her family and Community.

 

A GODLY WOMAN IS AN EXAMPLE OF STRENGTH AND GENTLE SPEECH. (v25-v26) 

(v25) we are told that strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. This reveals she is so prepared for what is in the future, she does not fear, but laughs. This describes a person, who faces life with confidence, resilience, and honor. Not only is this excellent woman clothed outwardly in the finest linen, but inwardly; she is clothed with these virtues of strength and dignity. Your strength, dignity, or your worth…. is not based on the culture, or what is trending, or the latest influencer on social media. Your strength and dignity come from a holy God who has created you to be that excellent woman. This is something that every woman should be chasing after, aspire too, whether you fulfill that requirement or not. As one female author wrote, “Let us not be intimidated or shamed by this amazing woman in Proverbs 31, but instead realize that the Lord will give us grace to be just like her.” As Peter reminds us, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,” 2 Peter 1:3

She is full of wisdom and kindness (v26) This means that she is well versed in biblical teaching, and she can speak wisely to others, including her children. This also reveals that she is not grumpy, sarcastic, short-tempered, or careless with her speech; her words are kind. Words of wisdom and cascades of kindness flow from her mouth and fall from her tongue. What does opening your mouth with wisdom look like? Choosing words that encourage, instruct, and improve the listener, rather than gossip, slander, or harsh criticism. A wise person does not talk, just to talk. Their speech is measured, prudent, and timely, focusing on matters of importance rather than nothings. 

A key aspect of this wisdom is being, ”quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.”  James 1:19-25. Paul describes it as, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Eph 4:29. Wisdom seeks to not let no corrupt communication come from their mouths. What is rotten speech? Anything that will demoralize others; obscene, immoral thoughts or immoral language is forbidden. All that the Christian, (men or women) speaks should be that which is good to the use of edifying and building the hearers up in Christ. 

She is blessed with common sense and carefully guards the

untameable beast of the tongue. She cares for her family, making sure they are cared for spiritually as well as materially. 

She makes wise use of her time and is not idle (v27) The Hebrew term for "watches over" or "looks well" implies active surveying, like a sentinel or guard. She is not absent-minded or out of touch with her home, but rather aware of what is happening. Her primary sphere of influence is her home. She avoids "gadding about" or visiting other homes to engage in gossip or idle chatter. (v27) “Idleness” (means) sluggishness, laziness, or the state of being inactive or not in use. The verse describes a woman who is a proactive manager, not a passive observer. She keeps her eyes wide open, watching each member of her house, she is sensitive to their personalities, conscious of their needs, and she is quick to find danger. She is organized, diligent, and purposeful, using her time to build her home rather than allowing it to fall into disrepair through neglect. Why? Prov 14:1 says, “The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down. This Proverb highlights that a woman’s wisdom, or lack thereof, directly determines the stability, character, and overall well-being of her home, family, and relationships.

 

A GODLY WOMAN IS AN EXAMPLE OF SOMEONE WHO IS ABSOLUTELY BLESSED BY GOD. (v28-v31)

She is greatly respected by her children and her husband. (v28) She is met with an ample supply of blessings for all her self-denying efforts to make then happy and good. The blessings of God, marks her noble life and her family grow up under the noble example and spiritual instruction.

As time goes by, she sits, weakened by age, crowned with

many years and so beautiful to behold. 

Her children are grateful and they acknowledge that by her kindness, which she reaps as the greatest harvest. Nothing makes a mother happier than to know that her family truly loves and respects her for all her hard work. A great example is found in Timothy’s grandmother and mother. “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” 2 Tim 1:5. His grandmother and mother had been converted before him, and he had followed them into the kingdom through their desire for him to know the true gospel. By their example and faithfulness, they were blessed women, who loved and feared the Lord who saves by His grace. Charles Spurgeon said “I cannot tell you how much I owe to the solemn words of my good mother.” 

She is praised by her husband (V28) What this verse is saying is that, “Her husband is so fulfilled with her conduct” This means towards himself his household, his business, and their children, he praises her. He shows himself wise of her excellence, and encourages her, in her work, by the compliments he praises her with. The husband’s responsibility is love her, and care for her, as extremely valuable and encourage her to be the woman God called her to be.

When a husband witnesses:

unwavering integrity, tireless diligence, skillful stewardship, open-handed mercy, resilient strength, wise, gracious words, a vibrant fear of the Lord. He cannot stay silent. Love compels him to voice gratitude, honor, and public recognition. This is why we read in Prov 18:22, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. Pro 19:14 says, “House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.” Showing them, tenderness gives them honour, for they are special both in heart, in word, and in action. Why? Because we are joint heirs of the same eternal life through Jesus and His finishing work on the Cross. Look what her husband says (v29) “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all." In other words, I am so blessed, and I have the greatest wife in the world 

Her greatest quality is that she is a God-fearing woman (v30) A deep, reverent awe of God is the foundation for lasting character and true honor. This is a healthy, reverential, awe of God; it’s a profound respect and honor for God's authority and holiness over her life, as a woman. A fear of God displays a priority of God, by placing God's will and word above personal desires, or social pressures, from fallen men and women. This goes right back to the beginning of this book. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Prov 1:7 

Women who fear the LORD are a family’s greatest treasure. Why? Because God has set guidelines and enormous responsibilities for women, mothers of all ages. A woman who is loyal to her family and all her dealings. A woman who labours with a joyful heart, not because she has too, but because she wants too. A woman who sees human life as a gift, and a blessing from God, and not an inconvenience. A woman who is an example of godliness which is exemplified in Jesus Christ. A woman who is respected and greatly appreciated by her family & community. A woman who fears the Lord with a high view of reverence and awe, to serve a holy God.

A great example of this is found in Sarah Edwards, who was married to the well-known preacher, Johnathan Edwards. “There was a sweet inward peace that no outward trouble could disturb.” Sarah Edwards wrote these words out of a lived inner faith, formed in the quiet discipline of prayer, suffering, and trusting in God. In eighteenth century New England, amid illness, repeated loss, and pressures of family life, she learned that peace does not come from settled circumstances but from settled confidence in the sovereignty of God. Her writings reveal a soul drawn steadily towards God, resting in Him rather than striving to understand every turn of His providence. She described her heart as at rest because God reigned. Joy, For her, did not rise or fall with outward comforts. It rose from the Presence of God Himself. In moments of weakness, she testified that God became her strength, and His nearness made doubt recede. The peace she spoke of was not emotional escape, but calm resignation, a willingness that God should be Glorified in all things. Sarah Edwards desired no happiness apart from living to God and serving Him. What made God appear glorious and lovely to her was not ease, but holiness. Her testimony stands as a quiet witness that true peace is inwardly given and outwardly unshaken, because it rests not on circumstance, but on God.” 

Godly women are of immeasurable importance, acting as foundational pillars for the home, church, and society by using a profound, positive influence. Many Christian women today generously give of their time, energy, and possessions to serve God’s servants. The New Testament refers to some women as co-workers in the ministry of the Gospel, assisting in evangelism and discipleship as well. As one writer wrote, “Frequently, it is the women who are given by God the spiritual gifts of helps, hospitality, mercy, and generosity. These women provide the majority of the practical support that pastors serving Christ need to keep them serving. This is especially true of godly wives who labor alongside their husbands in Gospel ministry. Without this attention to practical needs by women, men would be greatly hampered in their efforts. In general, this is by God’s design, that women, created by God to be “helpers” to men, would be used of God to enable men to be better servants for His name.” Women are considered precious, embodying strength and dignity, with a mandate to reflect God's character through wisdom, service, and nurturing faith to future generations. 

Men! Most of us are very aware of how lost we would be without our wives, and the ladies that serve in the local churches. Let’s make sure that we honor these women, and encourage them to follow in this path, and not by the world’s deceptions and anger. May we express our gratitude to them in appropriate ways for God’s glory, and encourage the true woman to live by this example. Why? The fear of the Lord is the condition of all womanly, as well as of all manly, excellence.

 

Let’s Pray