The biblical picture of a godly woman combines strength and servanthood, and Proverbs 31 provides the classic example.
Talking Points:
- Mark #1: Strength. Being a woman doesn’t mean you’re weak or timid. Godly women give over their fears to God. Proverbs 31:17,25
- Mark #2: Compassion. It’s easy for women to get internally focused. A woman of virtue is other-focused enough to see the needs around her. Proverbs 31:20
- Mark #3: Wisdom. Knowledge plus experience equals wisdom. Godly women share the truth without condescension or judgment. Proverbs 31:26
- Mark #4: Attentiveness. Godly women are tuned in to their surroundings, in the world and at home. This doesn’t mean that all women have to be homemakers – but those who choose to be should not feel “less than”. Proverbs 31:27
- Mark #5: Servanthood. God’s Word affirms the difference in roles between women and men. Submission to godly leadership in a woman’s life does not diminish her strength or personhood. Proverbs 31:11-12
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What are some of the misconceptions about women in our society, especially from the Christian community? How have you seen those misconceptions hurt women in the church or your witness among non-believers?
- Read Proverbs 31:17,25. Share about a strong, wise woman in your life. What impact has she had on your life and those around her?
- Read Proverbs 31:20. Define compassion in your own words. Why do you think compassion makes the list?
- How have you seen self-esteem issues enslave you or another woman in your life? How has that issue affected your/their abilities as a wife, mom, friend, co-worker?
- Read Proverbs 31:26 and Proverbs 16:24. How have you seen wisdom tainted by harshness? How can you improve in the way you use your words to lead others?
- Read Proverbs 31:27. In what areas of your life are you working hard? How have you seen laziness cause trouble in your life?
- Read Proverbs 31:11-12 and Mark 10:45. How would you define submission? How does submission relate to servanthood? Why does it require strength to be a servant?
- Read Ephesians 5:33. Based on this verse, what kind of love is a husband to have for his wife? How do love and respect tie together?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
