Marriage Prep 101
Getting Ready for the Big Day
What to Look for in a Woman
The Ideal Woman
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is on the qualities and characteristics to look for in a woman for marriage. Of special note is what the Bible says is an ideal woman. It is recognized that although none of us are “ideal”, we can strive to become what God wants us to be. This is the second part of the lesson on the ideal man and ideal woman.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand God’s version of the ideal man and woman for a lasting marriage.
- Feel: Recognize the importance of becoming who God wants us to be.
- Do: Work to become the version God wants us to be as an ideal man and woman.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
The intent is to help the learning focus on what he feels is most important in the qualities and characteristics of an ideal woman as described by God.
Answers will vary but look for emphasis on value, rarity, and the importance of seeking.
Her husband places value for a variety of reasons and tries to be counted worthy of her. An example of her value is trustworthiness. Her husband places great trust in her. This trustworthiness is beyond that to her husband, but as a person. It is a core quality of her character in all things and relationships. Other value includes:
- She is a good worker and manager – Doesn't complain in her work (31:13)
- She is in control of what affects her (31:15)
- She has good instincts in business dealings (31:16;24). Many wives control the family budget and finances much more effectively then husbands.
- She possesses strength (31:17).
- She provides for her family's needs (31:21-23)
- She is wise, helps others in need, and has confidence (31:25-27)
- She is virtuous (31:28-29) and is praised for her virtuousness by her family
- Her reputation is seen and praised by others (31:30-31)
- Her motivation is her relationship with God and obeying His will in all things.
- Physical beauty
- She doesn't consider self-centered independence as a virtue
- Gaining education, although important, is not her primary focus
There are many shared qualities and values. Here are a few:
- Both the good man and good woman put serving God and providing for each other and their family first.
- They have a good reputation in their community.
- Outward characteristics such as physical beauty and handsomeness are not the most important thing to them.
- Honesty, good work ethic, and love for others are highly valued.
There are no set answers for this. Each of us must determine for ourselves and dedicate ourselves to be counted worthy.
The intent of this question is to cause introspection of how we seek to develop quality characteristics and to be counted worthy of the love and respect of our spouse.
God knew from creation what men and women need for and from each other. He created each of us to provide what the other needs. When the relationship is developed on our love for God and for each other, and our desire to grow in these relationships, we grow closer to God and each other. This is God's plan for us and one that offers the rewards now and an insight into what wonderful blessings God has in store for His faithful followers.