Pastor's Corner: Finding a Godly wife

Proverbs 18:22 He who finds a (true) wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.

My wife and I will soon celebrate our 31st anniversary. The last 30 years of our life together has flown by quickly.

We raised three children and now have the opportunity to enjoy three grandchildren. We have experienced the loss of loved ones and the birth of babies. As we age, we sometimes reflect on our legacy.

The Bible teaches us that a Godly man leaves an inheritance to his children and grandchildren. That inheritance may be many things including money, land, faith in Jesus and good memories of our time here on earth.

I have had the opportunity to counsel couples preparing for marriage. I usually tell the groom that his earthly father can give him a house or riches but only God can give him a Godly wife. The last part of Proverbs 19:14 instructs us that a wise, understanding, and prudent wife is from the Lord.

Proverbs 31 lists many of the qualities of a capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman. This woman is more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. This kind of woman comforts, encourages and does her husband only good.

I recently heard a quote from the former football coach Bob Green who, when talking about his wife, said something like, “There are two types of wives in college football — great wives and ex-wives. I have a great wife.”

I wonder how many marriages would be healthier if each spouse sought to honor God as they worked to fulfill their marriage vows to each other.

The Godly women that I know care about others. They are generous and help the needy in a variety of ways. Sometimes they give their time to others and at other times they give their resources to give someone a hand up. They exercise and pray. They serve others. They prepare and plan for their families. They are strong and have dignity. They possess skillful and Godly wisdom and the law of kindness is on their tongues giving counsel and instruction. They do not gossip or feel sorry for themselves. Their kids bless them and their husbands love them and tell them that they are the best.

I am thankful for my wife. When things were tough, my wife would be an encourager to me. When others need help, she is seeking God as to what we should do to help them. Karrie honors her mother and her in-laws. We still do not have everything figured out, and it is by the grace of God that any of us stay married for any length of time, but I want to encourage you that Biblical principles still work in 2016. Traditional marriage may not be as popular in our society as it once was but God has not changed His mind. He told us that it was not good for the man to be alone. This week let us agree that God will provide Godly spouses for our kids and grandkids. Let us work to love one another and serve one another. Let us live our lives for an audience of One.

May God bless you big.

Sincerely,

Kevin Barsotti

Ark Church