Women In The Bible
The bible instructs us from Genesis to Revelation on how to live a virtuous life. Proverbs 31:10-31 describes in detail the characteristics required of a godly woman so much so that she is deemed ‘The Proverbs 31 Woman’ or ‘The Virtuous Woman’. This passage describes a woman of faithfulness and courage, who is selfless and ambitious, who is generous and wise. The traditional interpretation of this woman has been that she is the ideal woman, and that Christian women should strive to emulate her example as an example of womanly virtue.
The bible also speaks of the need to protect, empower and recognize women in scripture. Deuteronomy 22:11 says, “Do not wear clothes of different kinds, such as wool and linen mixed together” the purpose being that it would recognize the clothes of a covenant woman and forbid mixing it with other clothes, thus recognizing the important of visible distinction for the social status of women in the ancient Middle East.
The Bible also celebrates women in leadership roles, as seen in the book of Judges where Deborah is praised as a leader of her people. In I Timothy 2:12, Paul praises women “I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.” Here, Paul is emphasizing a woman’s ability to lead and respect in a male-dominated society.
Womanly Piety
The bible speaks of many virtues that are intended specifically for women, and one of these is womanly piety. In Titus 2:4-5, Paul articulated, “that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.” Here, Paul is emphasizing that woman must display their piety with good works and not by flashy or expensive clothing.
The bible also speaks about the importance of mutual submission and respect for husbands and wives as found in Ephesians 5:21, which says “submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Again, this urged both women and men to respect each other.
Finally, the bible speaks of a woman’s role as a helpmeet to her husband. In Genesis 2:18, God states “it is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” This speaks of the importance a woman brings to her husband’s life and the vital role she plays in his success.
Womanly Strength
The bible speaks of the importance of womanly strength. This can be seen in the stories of Ruth and Esther, both of whom were strong, independent women who used their courage to save their people from destruction. This is also seen in the story of Deborah in the book of Judges. Here, she is a leader of her people, showing her strength and courage in the face of adversity.
The bible also speaks about the importance of a woman’s inner strength, which is found in Proverbs 31:10-31. This passage speaks of the inner strength, wisdom, and self-control a woman should have. It speaks of her ability to be patient and persevere in times of trials and suffering.
Furthermore, womanly strength is seen in the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Here, Mary shows courage in the face of difficult circumstances, exemplifying her inner strength.
Finally, the bible speaks about the strength a woman can draw from her faith. This is seen in the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:27-28. Here, she praised God for answering her prayer and dedicated her son, Samuel, to his Godly service. Her faith was an example of inner strength and courage.
Womanly Dignity
The bible speaks of the importance of reproducing and protecting the innate dignity of womanhood. This can be seen in 1 Timothy 2:9-10 which says, “I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments.” Here, Paul is emphasizing the importance of a woman’s respectability and dignity regardless of her social status.
Furthermore, the bible speaks of the importance of womanly modesty and self-control as found in Titus 2:4-5. Here, Paul is encouraging women to remain humble and not indulge in unnecessary extravagance or ostentatious display.
Finally, the bible encourages womanly respect for others in Romans 12:10, which states “love one another with brotherly affection.” Here, Paul is emphasizing the importance of building relationships based on love and respect, not just with God, but also with family and friends. He is advocating for a sense of humbleness and respect towards others.
Womanly Duties
The bible speaks of the importance of the various duties woman have. In Proverbs 14:1, it says “the wise woman builds her house, but the foolish plucks it down with her hands.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of maintaining a home and that woman are responsible for the business of their house.
The bible also speaks of woman’s role in providing instruction and comfort to her children. In Proverbs 31:26 it says “Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of teaching children and guiding them with love and understanding.
Moreover, the bible speaks about a woman’s important role in caring for the elderly, as seen in the story of Ruth and Naomi in the book of Ruth. Here, we see Ruth’s selflessness and reverence for her mother-in-law, serving and caring for her in her old age. Her faith and respect for the elderly is an example to emulate.
Finally, the bible speaks of the importance of womanly hospitality. In Romans 12:13, it says “Practice hospitality.” Here, any woman can offer comfort and hospitality to strangers or friends as a way to demonstrate God’s love.
Womanly Diligence
The bible speaks of the importance of being diligent and hardworking. In Proverbs 31:19, it says “She lays her hands to the distaff and her hands holds the spindle.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of womanly diligence and hard work.
The bible also speaks of the importance of managing money wisely, as found in Proverbs 31:20 which says “She puts her hands to the distaff and her hands hold the spindle.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of being wise with money and not squandering it away.
Furthermore, the bible speaks of a woman’s role in taking care of the sick and poor. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus speaks of being there for the sick and needy. Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of tending to the needs of those who are in need.
Finally, the bible speaks of the importance of being discreet when speaking and making decisions. In Proverbs 31:26, it says “She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Here, the bible is exhorting us to be wise with our words and think through our decisions before speaking.
Womanly Character
The bible encourages women to develop a godly character by displaying admirable qualities such as integrity, forbearance, and humility. Proverbs 31:30 speaks of the importance of a virtuous woman “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of living a virtuous life and the rewards that come from living a life of faith and trust in God.
The bible also speaks of the importance of developing strong relationships between family members, as seen in Proverbs 18:22 which says, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of developing strong family bonds, and that a woman should be careful in choosing a husband.
Furthermore, the bible speaks of the importance of female leadership in the church, as seen in the story of Lydia in Acts 16. Here, Lydia was a successful businesswoman, but more importantly, she was a leader in her faith and was instrumental in launching the church in Philippi.
Finally, the bible speaks of the importance of true friendship, as seen in the story of Jonathan and David. In 1 Samuel 18:1-4, it talks about the friendship of Jonathan and David and how it blessed them through their life. Here, we see the importance of loyalty, faithfulness and that a woman should be careful in choosing her friends.
Womanly Humility
The bible speaks of the importance of developing a humble spirit. In Luke 18:14, Jesus states, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of humility and that a woman should be careful in her pride.
The bible also speaks of the importance of bearing one another’s burdens, as seen in Galatians 6:2 where it says “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the need to put others first and not be selfish.
Furthermore, the bible speaks of the importance of humility in relationships, as seen in Proverbs 13:4 which states “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of humility and that it brings great rewards.
Finally, the bible speaks of the importance of humility in ministry, as seen in 1 Peter 5:6 which states “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” Here, the bible is emphasizing the importance of humbly submitting to Almighty God’s sovereignty and His perfect timing.
