Becoming a Woman of God

“Who can find a wife of noble character? She is far more precious than jewels . . .

Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but the woman who fears the LORD will be praised.” (Proverbs 31:10 and 30, CSB)

Much has been said about the characteristics of the woman described in Proverbs 31. She was virtuous, kind, faithful, hardworking, dressed modestly, and cared well for her household. She was strong, capable, charitable, trustworthy, and just all-around nice. That’s quite a list! We might envy her numerous abilities, but we would probably also enjoy having this amazing woman as a best friend.

I have a feeling you could drop in unannounced in the middle of the morning and there would be no stray socks, random toys, or unfolded laundry cluttering things. The breakfast dishes would be washed, beds made, and the dinner menu set. In other words, she’s someone we would like to be but fear we will never measure up. At least I wouldn’t. Drop in on me unexpectedly and you might find a few dishes in the sink, a bit of dust on the furniture, and a basket of unfolded laundry.

Let me insert here that Proverbs 31 was a mother’s advice to her son on desirable qualities to look for in a wife. This passage does not describe an actual person. That makes me feel somewhat better.

I think what most of us really desire is to become a strong woman of God. That is both needful and attainable. But what characteristics should a godly woman possess?

Proverbs 31 speaks of noble character and fear (awe) of God. We can also find several godly attributes listed in Titus 2. Paul first addressed the older women, whom he desired to act as role models and teachers of the younger women in the congregation. He told them to “be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things” (Verse 3).  

With their own lives in order, then they should teach the younger women how to conduct themselves in a godly manner.

“That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” (Verses 4-5)

Although the wording may be different, many of the characteristics in Proverbs 31 are also evident in Titus 2. However, whether male or female, young or old, married or single, our mission in life should be to live godly lives that will be a witness of God’s grace wherever we may be—at home, in the church, and in our community.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” (Titus 2:11-12, ESV)

Lord, my greatest desire is to live in a way that honors You and is a witness to those around me. Help me to demonstrate that because of Your Spirit inside me, it’s possible to live a godly life in today’s ungodly world.

(This devotion is another in the series of Favorite Passages. Share with us a verse or passage that has been especially meaningful in your life.)