Who can find a virtuous woman?
William MacDonald teaches that a virtuous woman is a godly, respectful, and faithful wife whose character and conduct honor God and strengthen her marriage.
In this teaching sermon, William MacDonald explores the biblical qualities of a virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31:10. He emphasizes the importance of godliness, respect, faithfulness, and practical virtues that strengthen marriage and glorify God. MacDonald provides a balanced and encouraging perspective for both husbands and wives, offering a checklist of traits to aspire to in Christian marriage.
Text
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” (Prov. 31:10
What are some of the things that a Christian husband desires in his wife? The following is a suggested list. Hopefully no one will be so immature as to expect all this in any one woman.
First of all, she should be a godly woman-one who is not only born again but spiritually minded as well. This woman puts Christ first in her life. She is a woman of prayer and active in the service of the Lord. A woman of Christian character and integrity whom he can respect spiritually; and who respects him in return.
She is a woman who takes her God-given place of subjection and who actively assists her husband to take his proper place as head…She is faithful to her marriage vows— She is a good wife and mother of her children— She is personally neat and attractive, one who does not go to extremes in dress, one who is feminine and ladylike but not prissy.
This ideal wife is a good homemaker, who keeps the place neat and clean and who manages its affairs efficiently. She serves good meals on a regular schedule and loves to show hospitality to others… It goes without saying that she should share the same goals and interests as her husband.
When differences arise, she is willing to bring her problems to the surface rather than clam up, pout or sulk. She is willing to negotiate differences and is able to apologize and confess if necessary.
She is not a gossip nor a busybody, meddling in other people’s affairs. She has a meek and a quiet spirit and is not contentious or a nagger.
This wife cooperates in living within the family income. She is not obsessed with a desire for fancy things, and does not strive to keep up with the Joneses.
She is willing to accept adversity, if necessary.
She renders her husband his conjugal rights joyfully, not passively nor disinterestedly.
She has a good temperament, is a good sport, is not a social climber, and is entirely trustworthy.
Husbands should be grateful when they find a majority of these traits in their wives, and wives can use these as a checklist to help them climb higher.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The value of a virtuous woman is far above rubies
- A godly woman puts Christ first and is spiritually minded
- She is a woman of prayer and active in the Lord's service
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II
- She respects her husband and supports his leadership
- Faithful to marriage vows and a good mother
- Maintains personal neatness and femininity without extremes
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III
- Efficient homemaker and hospitable
- Shares goals and interests with her husband
- Handles conflicts with openness and humility
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IV
- Avoids gossip and contentiousness
- Lives within family means and accepts adversity
- Joyfully fulfills conjugal duties and is trustworthy
Key Quotes
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” — William MacDonald
“She is a woman who takes her God-given place of subjection and who actively assists her husband to take his proper place as head.” — William MacDonald
“Husbands should be grateful when they find a majority of these traits in their wives, and wives can use these as a checklist to help them climb higher.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Strive to cultivate godly character and prayerfulness in your daily life.
- Support and respect your spouse’s God-ordained role in the family.
- Practice humility and open communication to resolve conflicts peacefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be a virtuous woman according to this sermon?
A virtuous woman is godly, respectful, faithful, and exhibits qualities like prayerfulness, hospitality, and humility that honor God and support her family.
Is perfection expected in a wife according to William MacDonald?
No, the speaker acknowledges that no one should expect all these traits perfectly in any one woman but encourages striving toward them.
How should a wife handle disagreements in marriage?
She should bring problems to the surface, be willing to negotiate differences, and apologize or confess when necessary.
What role does submission play in the virtuous woman’s character?
She takes her God-given place of subjection and actively assists her husband in his role as head of the family.
Why is living within the family income emphasized?
Because a virtuous woman is not obsessed with material things and cooperates in managing the family's finances responsibly.