The Scriptural charge to married women is biblically specified: to be "keepers at home," and "lovers of husbands and children." In turn and elsewhere, we are prescribed the added purpose of women---whatever their marital status---the divine commission of becoming "graceful pillars, carved to beautify a palace (Psalm 144:12)." Note carefully, dear reader, that pillars are neither the structure providing shelter, nor the main premise; rather, they, with strength and simplicity, offer the immeasurable provision of grace and beauty. In stark contrast to the world's notion of womanhood, Peter Marshall, in strength and truth, spoke words that will remain relevant to all time.
"Godly womanhood ... the very phrase sounds strange in our ears. We never hear it now. We hear about every other type of women: beautiful women, smart women, sophisticated women, career women, talented women, divorced women. But so seldom do we hear of a godly woman - or of a godly man either, for that matter. We believe women come nearer to fulfilling their God-given function in the home than anywhere else. It is a much nobler thing to be a good wife, than to be Miss America. It is a greater achievement to establish a Christian home than it is to produce a second-rate novel filled with filth. It is a far, far better thing in the realms of morals to be old-fashioned, than to be ultra-modern. The world has enough women who know how to be smart. It needs women who are willing to be simple. The world has enough women who know how to be brilliant. It needs some who will be brave. The world has enough women who are popular. It needs more who are pure."
In a world that teaches women to compete with men in every way imaginable, there is an un-explainable beauty in the arrangement that He has planned. The value of biblical femininity supersedes the expectations of a society which can only find value in monetary success. On the contrary, the Bible unfolds a vision of a very different nature: the emphasis of support. With her tongue, in the very design of her body, of kind words, of Life itself, she is to be a supporter. The very curse of her kind only reaffirmed this charge: the increase of pain in child-bearing.
I can think of no better commission than to be the wife of a visionary man, sharing in his hopes and dreams by the means of His careful description: spiritual, emotional, and affectionate support. Where home is domain and sanctuary, beautified by fruitfulness and truth. Where woman enhances and furthers Husband's vision with presence, availability, and a mind well-informed and hewn by the Spirit.
May we never grow weary in raising daughters (or being daughters) aimed for this unpopular vision. Neither the unbelieving world nor the carnal church will welcome it. But it is how this country was found, colonized, and prospered. It gave us daughters, wives, and mothers like Abigail Adams who utilized education and wisdom towards the vision and eventual success of multi-generational reformation---all from home. Let no man lead you astray in minimizing this possibility. Reform and revival always begin in the domestic seat.
