The Worthy Woman
We, as women know that much is expected of us. God created us to be man’s helper (Gen 2:18) and helpers we are. When children are added to the mix, women suddenly become much more than just helpers. In fact, in a study done by Salary.com, “the typical mother puts in a 92- hour work week, and works at least 10 jobs. In order of hours spent on them per week, these are: housekeeper, day-care center teacher, cook, computer operator, laundry machine operator, janitor, facilities manager, van driver, chief executive officer and psychologist.” By figuring out the median salaries for each position, and calculating the average number of hours worked at each, the firm determined that the work completed by the average housewife should pay approximately $138,095 per year. Of course, we all know that we are not compensated in this manner. Our rewards come in various ways and some may not come until we leave this earth. Let’s take a look at the “worthy woman” described in Proverbs 31. The worthy woman brings her husband good and not evil all the days of her life (v. 12). She goes to great lengths to provide food for her family (v. 14). She works before the dawn and well into the night to provide food and clothing (v. 15-18). She works vigorously (v. 17), and is not idle (v. 27). Even after all she does for her household, she still finds time to help the poor and the needy (v.20). She is strong and dignified and still knows how to laugh (v. 25). Because of this, her children call her blessed and her husband praises her (v. 28). To sum it all up, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate” (v. 30- 31). Nothing gives me more hope than to know my labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). May we all see the blessings of being wives and mothers, and continue our work for the Kingdom.
‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will set you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’ Matthew 25:23
originally printed in the Spring 2008 issue
reprinted in the Spring 2012 issue