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If we have daughters, we must ask ourselves what kind of future wives we're rearing.
Of course, not all of our girls will marry. But most will. And those who do not, will still require the characteristics of a good wife in order to maintain a level of true godliness. This is something that truly attracts others to Christ.
Does your daughter submit to your wishes?
If you ask her to do something for you or one of her siblings, does she do it without argument? Someday, she may find the need to submit to the leadership of a spouse.
Is your daughter typically cheerful and positive?
Or does she find the negative in nearly everything? Someday, she will need strength of character in the face of difficult life trials and stresses. She will have the power to influence her home environment for good ... or bad.
Does your daughter complain a lot about aches and pains?
Or does she regard general ills as something minor while praising God for her overall good health? The sniffles or a stubbed toe shouldn't be something that gets in the way of servanthood or thankfulness.
How does she react to daily stress?
Noise, sibling problems, a list of chores... Someday, she will find her plate overflowing with truly overwhelming duties with eternal significance, and how she learned to deal with stress today will show forth when she's an adult!
Is your young lady quiet?
Or is she loud and abrasive? Is she meek or bossy? A woman who exhibits gentle traits is rare indeed! And very special!
How is her walk with God?
Does she make time with the Lord without prodding on your part? Does she come to you and freely ask questions or converse with you on spiritual matters? Or does God have no place in her life? The mark of a true lady, is her close walk with the Lord!
Is she diligent?
A girl who knows hard work will be a true help to her husband, and will be able to run a smooth household! Chaos will be far from her!
Is she choosy when it comes to her friendships?
You will find her closest relationships now, will have a direct impact on what type of spouse she chooses, tomorrow.
How does she manage the money she has available?
Does she spend it as fast as she receives it... or does she plan for its use wisely, respecting its value?
How does your daughter feel about her appearance?
Is she proud and can you often find her in front of a mirror? Does she relish her looks and spend a lot of time trying to make herself more attractive? On the other hand, a girl who has not accepted how God has created her (perfectly!) is also too focused on what is on the outside. Vanity is not a pretty thing! A godly young lady will be more concerned about keeping a neat appearance and cultivating her heart rather than fussing over hair, fabrics, shoes and new dresses!
Your future son-in-law can be blessed by you, Mom and Dad! Train up a daughter whose price is far above rubies! The work will be worth it!
Your daughter's eventual spouse deserves a woman who is a true helpmeet! One who can be safely trusted with the care of his children's upbringing. He deserves to come home after a hard day on the job to a home filled with laughter and smiling. His wife should not spend his money faster than he can earn it -- there will be bills to pay and necessaries to purchase! He shouldn't have to be burdened with a woman who is constantly unhappy and argumentative. She should be able and willing to submit to his wishes without a fight. And most importantly, he should be a Christian, reflecting your daughter's desire to be selective in choosing a lifetime partner. She needs to link hands together with him, and learn to bear further fruits of the Spirit.
He and your grandchildren will rise up and call her blessed!
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