Embracing Biblical Femininity: Strength, Courage, and Godly Conviction

As my wife and I eagerly awaited the arrival of our baby girl, we couldn't help but wonder what name would suit her best. We pondered over options like Elizabeth, Jael, and Abigail, names that held special meaning for us. Elizabeth, after my mother, a strong and godly woman who raised me as a single mother and exemplified the qualities of a Proverbs 31 wife and mother. Jael, a brave and fearless woman from the time of Judges, who fearlessly took matters into her own hands to protect her people. And Abigail, after my beloved wife, who embodies the qualities of a woman of God with her strength, boldness, and love for the church.

But recently, I came across an article that stirred up some confusion among a few Christian women I greatly respect. The article had an anti-feminist tone and expressed a disdain for the idea of women in combat roles. While these women agreed with the sentiment against interchangeability in the name of equality, they were curious about my thoughts on biblical femininity. Did I believe that women were meant to be like trophies displayed on banisters, collecting dust? Did I think that the ideal of biblical womanhood was confined to the 1950s Disney movies?

My response to them was a resounding no. Biblical femininity is not about passivity or weakness, but about strength, industriousness, and productivity. The woman described in Proverbs 31 is far from inactive. She is praised for her hard work and the fruit of her hands (Proverbs 31:31). This passage also affirms the equal value of men and women, as both are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The ideal woman is not weak, but dresses herself with strength, dignity, and laughs at the future (Proverbs 31:17, 25). She is also an heir of God's grace (1 Peter 3:7) and plays an indispensable role in the lives of men, as it is not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18).

Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of courageous and godly women who played significant roles in God's redemptive plan. Women like Sarah, who displayed imperishable beauty and trusted in God (1 Peter 3:4); Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives who defied a king to save Israelite children; Hannah, who dedicated her beloved son Samuel to the service of the Lord; Deborah, who served as a judge in Israel and inspired Barak and his soldiers; Esther, who risked her life to save God's people; Priscilla, who partnered with her husband in ministry; Ruth, who remained faithful to Naomi and trusted in God's plan; Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus; and Mary, the humble and obedient mother of God.

We should celebrate the courage and godly conviction of these women, as well as the countless others throughout history and in our own homes and churches. They are not to be overlooked or undervalued, but honored and appreciated for their contributions. More sons and husbands should rise up and call them blessed.

Unfortunately, the beauty of godly femininity is often under attack in our world today. Society pressures women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and encourages them to prioritize their careers over the cultivation of the home and motherhood. Submission to a husband is seen as intolerable, and the unique ability of women to give life is sometimes regarded as a burden. In the midst of these challenges, it is crucial that we champion and uphold the beauty of biblical womanhood.

Biblical femininity is not about conforming to cultural preferences or arbitrary roles. It is about embracing the differences that God has created between men and women and using them to reflect His image in the world. Men and women are equal before the Lord (Galatians 3:28), but we also have distinct roles and responsibilities. Instead of apologizing for these differences, we should glory in them and put God's wisdom on display.

If God blesses my wife and me with a baby girl, I pray that she will grow up to be a woman of God, fearless, faithful, and feminine according to God's word. I hope she will embrace her unique calling and contribute to the world in ways that only she can. Just as the women mentioned in the Bible left a lasting impact on their communities and played crucial roles in God's redemptive plan, I believe that my daughter will have her own unique part to play in God's story.

In conclusion, biblical femininity is not about passivity or weakness, but about strength, courage, and a deep love for God and His people. It is about embracing the unique qualities and roles that God has given women and using them to reflect His image in the world. We should celebrate and honor the women of courage and godly conviction, both in the Bible and in our own lives. And if God blesses us with daughters, may they grow up to be women who fearlessly embrace their calling and make a lasting impact on the world.