Deuteronomy 11-12 / Luke 8:22-39 / Psalm 70 / Proverbs 12:4
An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who shames him is like rottenness in his bones. (Pr 12:4)
Those of you who are married, did you know the weight you carry in the home and in your marriage? Do you know the responsibility before God? There is much said in Proverbs about the excellent wife and woman, and it may seem a heavy load to carry, but with time, obedience and patience we are all capable of attaining what is spoken of.
I love the word “excellent”. Excellent – chayil = strength, power, might (especially warlike), valor. To show oneself strong, to display valor. Leader of the army, soldiers. Ability, hence wealth, riches – to acquire wealth. Virtue, uprightness, integrity, also fitness. The strength of a tree, spoken poetically of its fruits.
In the Passion Translation, we find this explanation for the “virtuous wife”: There is an amazing Hebrew word used here. It is more commonly used to describe warriors, champions, and mighty ones. Many translations read “an excellent wife.” But the meaning of the Hebrew word chayil is better translated “an army that is wealthy,” “strong,” “mighty,” “powerful,” “with substance,” “valiant,” “virtuous,” or “worthy.”
Some women are taught to be quiet and submissive and that is also biblical, but can I tell you upfront that I identify with this excellent and virtuous warrior woman!
Have I shared the story with you of something my dad saw of me in the Spirit one day during worship? It is one of my favorite times of being identified by an important man in my life (and we must not allow just anyone to identify us!). He came to me after services and told me this – I saw you in the Spirit during worship today, and you were standing with your sword held high. Yes, I was. And yes, I do. I aspire to be ready at all times.
I’ve spoken of the warrior before, and it is something I identify with easily because my dad was a warrior, and he passed this spirit onto me. My girls have this same excellent, warrior characteristic.
Some warriors are brave and bold, and some are quiet and steady. I don’t think your personality type is what makes you a warrior. I think you are a warrior if you have submitted yourself to the will and way of Jesus Christ.
The warrior woman makes no apologies for the place she stands in Christ. She guards the truth, as well as those who are weak. She speaks both truth and grace. She defends against injustice.
What kind of man must it require to allow his wife to be excellent? A humble and strong one! Only a man who is secure and fully submitted to God himself will nurture and encourage such strength in his wife, and my hubby Jeff is such a man. He encourages and champions me in all that God has placed within me. He is not intimidated by or afraid of who I am. (And there are times I’m a little odd to some people). Jeff accepts me as I am, and I am grateful.
If you’re not sure whether you are yet excellent, may I assure you that if you are in Christ, you’re well on your way. It’s a matter of saying “yes” to His plan and purpose for you. So, say “yes” and let the adventure begin!
