Published September 9, 1982. Whenever the Bible is mentioned some think of a dusty old
book written thousands of years ago that is no longer relevant. While it may be
true that some of the thoughts expressed may be antiquated, I am amazed at the
relevance of most of the teachings for contemporary living. Within the pages of
the Bible are some excellent guidelines for present-day marriage and family
living.
Like any other woman, Lemuel’s mother was concerned about
the kind of woman her son would someday marry. His choice, however, was
particularly significant since one day he would become king, and she,
consequently his queen. What kind of a woman should Lemuel marry? What advice
did the mother give to her son? What should a husband expect of a wife?
In the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs, Lemuel’s mother
admonished him (and I will paraphrase) to find a woman who was virtuous (verse
10), one he could also trust (verse 12) and be willing and able to work with
her hands (verse 13). Lemuel was encouraged to find a woman who was
knowledgeable about foods and willing to prepare and serve a variety to her
household (verse 14-15).
The woman he was to marry should have some knowledge of purchasing
land which implies an understanding of money management and financing. She
should also be familiar with agriculture in that she could plant and reap from
her own vineyard (verse 16).
Lemuel’s wife was to be physically fit and healthy, even
strong in that she “girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms
(a modern weight lifter?, verse 17). The queen-to-be was to be knowledgeable in consumer economics and able to make wise purchases (verse 18). Not only
that, she was expected to know how to make or produce some of her own goods
without having to purchase all of them (verse 19).
The new bride was expected to be charitable with a genuine
concern for the poor and needy (verse 20). Her children should be well-clothed
and prepared for inclement weather (verse 21). She herself was to dress
fashionably (verse 22), was to be supportive of her husband and cognizant of
his reputation (verse 23). His wife was also encouraged to become involved in
merchandizing, both in production and selling (verse 24). And the woman Lemuel
married was to be well-educated and knowledgeable in that she “openeth her
mouth with wisdom” (verse 26). She also was to be attentive to the needs of
those in her household through her diligence (verse 27).
In capsule form, this is what many husbands, ancient and
modern, want in a wife. And what a delight she would be! Truly, “Whoso findeth a
wife (such as this) findeth a good thing” (Proverbs 18 22). She would be far from a dull woman, and the description mentioned was written several thousand years
ago.
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