How can we value "a prudent wife" as a gift from the Lord? Setting the Stage “ Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.” (Proverbs 19:14) Understanding “A Prudent Wife” Prudence is practical wisdom that consistently applies God’s truth. Scripture sketches her profile: • Proverbs 31:10-12 – she “brings him good, not harm.” • Proverbs 31:27 – she “watches over the affairs of her household.” • Proverbs 12:4 – she is “a crown to her husband.” • 1 Peter 3:1-4 – her beauty rests in “the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.” Key traits: – Discerns right paths and avoids pitfalls – Manages resources with foresight – Speaks with kindness and discretion – Fears the LORD, anchoring every decision (Proverbs 31:30) Why She Is a Gift from the LORD • Origin: Genesis 2:18 – God Himself said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” • Quality: James 1:17 – “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” • Impact: Proverbs 31:28-29 – her family “rises and calls her blessed.” • Purpose: Ephesians 5:31-32 – marriage mirrors Christ and the church; a prudent wife helps display that mystery. Practical Ways to Honor and Value Her 1. Treasure her openly – “Her husband praises her” (Proverbs 31:28). Verbal gratitude reinforces worth. 2. Lead sacrificially – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25). 3. Invest time and attention – Dwell with her “with understanding” (1 Peter 3:7). Listen, plan, and dream together. 4. Protect her reputation – Guard conversations and social media from sarcasm or put-downs. 5. Support her growth – Encourage Bible study, service, and any God-honoring skills she pursues. 6. Pray over decisions with her – Prudence flourishes when both seek the Lord’s counsel (Psalm 127:1). Cultivating Prudence Together • Regular Scripture reading as a couple (Psalm 119:105) • Shared budgeting and goal-setting, inviting her insight • Weekly debriefs: celebrating wise choices, correcting missteps • Hospitality and service that let her strengths bless others (1 Peter 4:10) Guarding Against Cultural Counterfeits • Reject the notion that success is merely financial; Scripture ranks a prudent wife above houses and wealth. • Resist entertainment that mocks biblical marriage. • Refuse comparison: her worth is God-assigned, not social-media-measured. • Remember stewardship: gifts from God are to be cherished, not taken for granted. Conclusion: Living in Gratitude Acknowledging that “a prudent wife is from the LORD” moves us to continual thankfulness, intentional honor, and joyful partnership. As we esteem her, we exalt the Giver who designed marriage for His glory and our good. |
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