Marriage is a beautiful and sacred institution designed by God, and the role of a wife carries profound significance. Proverbs 18:22 tells us that a wife is a good thing and a sign of God’s favor in a man’s life. But what does it mean to be this "good thing"? As women called to be wives or aspiring to be one, this verse invites us to reflect on our role and ask ourselves: “Am I truly a good thing? Will my presence bring favor into his life?” This blog explores the qualities of a godly wife as outlined in the book of Proverbs, encouraging women to pursue excellence, godliness, and wisdom in their journey of becoming or being a wife.
What Does It Mean to Be a Good Thing?
Proverbs 18:22 emphasizes that a godly wife is good, not merely in her external qualities but in her character, wisdom, and heart for God. Being a “good thing” means becoming a blessing in her husband’s life and building a home that reflects God’s peace, love, and purpose. The Bible further elaborates on this in Proverbs 31:10-31, describing the virtuous woman as one who is:
1. Valuable: “She is worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31:10). Her worth is not in material possessions but in her integrity, wisdom, and strength.
2. Trustworthy: “Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value” (Proverbs 31:11). A godly wife earns trust by being dependable, loyal, and supportive.
3. Hardworking: “She works with eager hands” (Proverbs 31:13). She contributes diligently to her household’s success and well-being.
4. Wise and Kind: “She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue” (Proverbs 31:26). Her words build up rather than tear down.
5. God-Fearing: “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (Proverbs 31:30). Her relationship with God is the foundation of her excellence.
Will He Obtain Favor Through Me?
The second part of Proverbs 18:22 says that a man who finds a wife “receives favor from the Lord.” This favor is not automatic; it is tied to the wife’s godly character and the way she lives out her calling.
A husband experiences favor when his wife:
1. Supports His Purpose: Proverbs 31 shows how a virtuous wife is a partner who helps her husband succeed. Her actions, wisdom, and prayers contribute to his growth and stability.
2. Builds Her Home: Proverbs 14:1 says, “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands, the foolish one tears hers down.” A wise wife creates an atmosphere of peace, love, and godliness, ensuring her home is a haven.
3. Reflects God’s Glory: A wife who fears the Lord draws her husband closer to God, allowing God’s favor to flow into their marriage.
Becoming a Good Thing
Becoming a godly wife is not about perfection but about striving to live in alignment with God’s design. Here are some practical steps:
1. Seek God’s Wisdom: Spend time in prayer and study of God’s Word to understand His will for your life as a wife.
2. Cultivate Godly Character: Focus on developing qualities like patience, kindness, and humility, which are essential in building a godly marriage.
3. Encourage and Support Your Husband: Be his biggest cheerleader, helping him grow in his purpose and walk with God.
4. Commit to Growth: Marriage is a journey of growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, refine, and mature.
The Dangers of Being a Hindrance
While Proverbs celebrates the virtues of a godly wife, it also warns against the consequences of ungodly behavior in marriage:
1. The Contentious Wife: Proverbs 21:9 says, “Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” Constant strife and nagging disrupt the peace of the home and drive a wedge between husband and wife.
2. The Foolish Wife: Proverbs 14:1 warns that a foolish woman destroys her own home through carelessness, selfishness, or lack of wisdom.
These warnings remind us of the power and responsibility wives hold in shaping their marriages and homes.
Conclusion: A Wife of Favor
A wife is a gift, a reflection of God’s goodness and favor in a man’s life. But to be that “good thing” requires intentionality, wisdom, and a heart submitted to God. As women, we have the privilege and responsibility to build our homes, strengthen our marriages, and glorify God through our roles.
Self-Reflection: Am I a Good Thing?
As women, we are called to examine ourselves in light of God’s Word. Here are some questions for reflection:
1. Am I a Builder or a Tearer-Down? Do my words and actions create peace and unity, or do they sow discord and strife?
2. Do I Embody Wisdom and Kindness? Proverbs 31:26 highlights the importance of wise and kind speech. Do my words encourage and uplift, or do they harm?
3. Do I Fear the Lord? A godly wife’s excellence flows from her relationship with God. Am I cultivating a life of prayer, devotion, and obedience to Him?
4. Do I Strengthen My Household? Am I working diligently to provide, nurture, and ensure that my household reflects God’s glory?
If you’re a wife, ask yourself today: “Am I a good thing? Is my life bringing God’s favor into my husband’s world?” And if you’re preparing for marriage, begin now by cultivating the character of a godly woman who reflects God’s grace and wisdom. Let’s strive to be women of virtue, faith, and love, bringing favor wherever we go
What steps are you taking to become a godly wife or prepare for marriage? Share your thoughts below!
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