Bible Thoughts

June 25, 2000

The priceless value of a good woman far outweighs anything this world has to offer. She is the jewel of every husband; the golden girl for her children; and the emerald for her grandchildren. She is blessed by others; envied by many. Her strength is often seen in the home, as she carries on the daily affairs of life. Her endurance is noted when she is able to adjust to the changes of society without endangering her family. She is the apple of a good's man's eye. Let all take notice: without godly women, there probably would be few, if any, godly men. It is only right that her children, and all others, call her blessed(Proverbs 31:28).

There are many good, honest, and faithful women who seek to know and love the Lord. They spend endless hours in doing what is proper for a woman who is a Christian. The worthy woman considers not only her family, she is considerate of all others. She is ready to help when needed; she will sacrifice time, effort, and funds to see to the needs of the less fortunate. She always seems to have time to show an interest in others without neglecting her own family.

The interest in truth and right leads her to study and apply the principles of righteousness found in the word of God. The standard by which she measures her own life can be found in the teachings of the Bible. She has reverence for things holy; thankfulness for the blessings of life; and, always, an interest in the spiritual welfare of her family. Many a gospel preacher can credit his mother with the inspiration that led him to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ.

As the worthy woman grows older, she continues to exercise an influence over others, especially righteous women. Her example is seen and respected because of the demonstration of love in her feelings and actions toward others. She is ready, and willing, to help, even though it is not always convenient. Her body may be aching; but her heart is young. She does not hesitate to ask, "What can I do to help?"

To all of those good women, young or old, who serve the Lord in this congregation, and any other, may you continue to be the example of righteousness so badly needed by young and old. May your efforts provoke others to follow your example. You will be long remembered for "your works do follow you."

Adonijah, the half-brother of Solomon, feared for his life. He had attempted to occupy the throne of David and was not successful. Adonijah enters a plea to Solomon that he be spared. Solomon's reply was simple: Show yourself "a worthy man."

Unfortunately, Adonijah did not live as a worthy man and was slain for the foolishness of asking for Abishag, the woman who was brought to David in his ailing years. Such a desire was apparently considered punishable by death. Solomon had him put to death for his unwise request.(Adonijah had earlier tried to usurp the throne from Solomon.)

A worthy man is willing to abide by the decision that God makes. God intended for Solomon to be king. Any effort to stop that ascension to the throne would make a person unworthy. Rebellion against the will of God is not the mark of a worthy man.

The world does not look upon a worthy man in the same manner as does the disciple of Christ. The worthy man in God's sight is one who is honest, humble, reverent, obedient, prayerful, diligent in righteousness, fair with all men, and, above all, loves the Lord and His way. A worthy man who can find? Search for a Christian, for this is truly the worthy man for today. Find one who is a living sacrifice to the cause of Christ and you will find a worthy man.

The worthy man is willing to do all that he can in the service of Christ. His plans permit the Lord to control his actions. His thoughts are centered on pure ideas and actions. By his life, he guides others into the path of righteousness. He is known for his works and he is respected by those who are around him. He offers sound advice, good words, and an example for all men.

The worthy man is concerned about his family. He is interested in their salvation and will make sacrifices to see they obtain the teaching and experience that will lead each member of his family toward the truth. His actions in the home will demonstrate the type of life that should be lived by all. When he acts, he does so with the Lord and His church in his mind.

The worthy man puts the kingdom and His righteousness first in his life. He is willing to sacrifice in order to meet the conditions of the gospel. He loves the truth and stands for it, whatever the personal cost may be. As he approaches the end of his life, he keeps the Lord's way in his mind and looks forward to the reward that waits for him in heaven.

What does it take to be a worthy man? The same that it takes to be a worthy woman: Respect and honor for the word of God and a faithful life that glorifies the Lord and His Son.