Introduction: Titus 2:2, 6-8 (This passage speaks of God s idea of a real woman. Contrast this with modern concept and you will see a real difference. In this study we will explore God s concept of what a woman should be.)
I. What Is Not Important: (Follows are some things the world will tell you are very important to being a real woman. We will learn from the scriptures these traits are not always favorable in the sight of God.)
1. Physical Beauty: 1 Pet. 3:1-4 (The world would have you to believe you need physical beauty to get by in life. It will also encourage you to use your physical charm to get what you want in life. This passage speaks of how a woman can influence her husband in a favorable way. Notice it emphasizes good behavior and quality of character as opposed to physical beauty. To give attention to your appearance is fine. Your husband is sure to appreciate such efforts on your part. However, such beauty is fleeting and vain. Your real emphasis must be on godliness.)
2. Independence: 1 Cor. 11:3, 1 Tim. 5:14 (The world will tell you that you must maintain your independence. In some situations you may be made to feel inferior if you do not "take charge and be in control of your life". These verses teach there are certain rolls a woman must take in the family that require her, like the man, to set aside personal independence and serve the family.)
3. Being Bold And Assertive: Prov. 27:15, Prov. 21:9 (The world promotes the idea you must be bold, brazen and assert yourself. The Bible teaches the idea of being contentious and always demanding your way are not favorable traits in the sight of God.)
4. How Handsome A Man She Can Obtain: 1 Kings 11:1f (The world would have you to believe the measure of a woman is found in whether or not she can snare a wealthy and handsome man. If one s ability to catch an attractive mate were God s idea of good, Solomon should have been great. But his obtaining many beautiful wives was part of his downfall.)
II. What Is Important:
1. Inward Beauty: 1 Pet. 3:1-6 (God insists that having inward beauty, a meek and quiet spirit, is what is valuable in his sight.)
2. Submission: Eph. 5:22-24 (God insists being submissive to your husband is an important quality. Submission is not ugly. We all must submit to others at some time and in some way. Even Christ submitted to death. In this light you can see why submission is beautiful in the sight of God.)
3. Keeper At Home: Titus 2:3-5, Prov. 31:13-16 (Having career skills and opportunities can be good in certain situations, but you have a domestic responsibility to your family you must not neglect.)
4. Making A Christian Home: Eph. 6:4 (God wants us to have homes that train our children to be godly.)
A. Contrast Sarah And Job s Wife: Job 2:9 (We ve already noticed that Sarah was good to Abraham and they made their home a godly home. In contrast, Job s wife advised Job to curse God. You will play an important and powerful roll in making your home a Christian home.)
B. A Picture Of Motherhood: Jdgs. 5:7, 4:5, Ezek. 16:44 (Deborah was like a mother to the nation of Israel. Her influence was powerful and positive. People came to her for guidance. You can be like this in your home and your circle of influence. The proverb is true. Your children will tend to be like you. Will that be good or bad in the sight of God?)
Conclusion: (God s idea and the world s idea of a real woman are very different. As women, you must dismiss the evil notions of the world and aspire to be what God wants you to be. As men, you must forget trying to find a wife or reshape your wife into the world s idea. You must accept and encourage God s idea of a real woman.)
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