God created the first marriage, and still believes in the vital role of the wife which is contrary to modern secular concepts. Beside, not behind, every good husband has a great wife. What creates an indestructible team, turn to His word?
1) Accepts good choices in a husband. (Ruth 3: 10-11) Ruth had proven her qualities in her actions and Boaz was a fine catch that exhibited respect and stability in his desire for a wife. In the American culture, most marriages are initiated by the wife accepting the proposal of marriage. How much courage does it take to say no? What are the long term affects for not standing up with your gut feeling? Women typically place more decision making merit on emotion than men. How can experience from this classroom give direction to a future bride to factually look into the future?
2) Supportive (Proverbs 31: 10-12) If the husband is already moving, then she made a good choice. How can a wifes support engage a timid husband? (Note, there is a big difference between timid and idle.) How can a husband that feels the support of his wife, change his drive to provide? What are the results of a wife being evil (destructive) to her husband?
3) Strength and Honor (Proverbs 31: 25-31) How can the speech of a wife destroy the husband and the home? What are some characteristics of an idle wife in verse 27? How can a wifes actions change how the family treats her (verse 28)? How is honor destroyed when a wife cannot manage her charm and beauty outside the home? The dishonorable foolish woman is in Proverbs 9: 13-18.
4) Skilled (Proverbs 31: 13-19) While it is a personal and family challenge for a mother to work, what skills cannot be met by the husband? Re-read verse 15. What is the household outcome when a mother (wife) sends a fend for yourself message to the home? (Do not confuse this with teaching older children to be self-sufficient.) In verse 16, explain the qualities of making purchases, monetary wisdom and longevity?
5) Serving & Confident (Proverbs 31: 20-24) What can be said for the wife that gives positive direction to those in humanitarian need? Scarlet and purple were biblical colors of the early culture for strength and royalty. Describe the difference in providing a well-dressed family instead of only the best will do? How does the public appearance of a wife affect the husbands confidence and success in verse 23? God’s plan of balance and need between the wife and husband. Wife needs: SECURITY/STABILITY. Husband needs: RESPECT/SUPPORT. Written by Danjuma Iliya
