A Gem of a Husband

Who can find a good husband?

Birol Christ o is a former Shepherdess Coordinator for the Southern Asia Division. Birol and her husband, Gerald, are retired and living in Maranatha Colony, Hasur, India.

Who can find a good husband? For his price is far above rubies and diamonds. The heart of his wife is bound up with his, because he was good to her all the days of her life. You will find him in Proverbs 31:10-31, side by side with the virtuous woman, his spouse. He is a rare gem indeed.

He loved her from the day they were married. He made her feel at ease; she felt free to open up to him and expose her feelings. He understood her nature, her needs, and her desires.

He provided for her well. He knew that a woman needs a helper in the home, and he realized it would be too much for her to do all the household chores by herself, especially when the babies arrived one after another. So this husband provided well for his house, there was food, clothing, and maid-servants. He noticed how frugal she was, so he gave her money to run the house. With what she saved, she bought wool and flax and made garments for the children, for herself, and also for him. He took notice that she wasted not her time, money, talent, and energy.

He trusted her with money so he never questioned her about how she used the money he gave her. He never insisted that she write down all her expenses so he could check. He never took back the balance of the money. What she saved he let her use as she pleased. He trusted her with men with whom she had business. He safely trusted her in everything and she did not betray his trust.

He gave her room to grow. He allowed her to improve her talents of sewing and weaving. She not only made clothing for the family but also to sell. He did not suppress her. He drew out all her goodness and abilities. Her business did well. She made enough money so she could help the poor and the needy. All loved her as there was kindness in her tongue. He was kind to her and let her help anyone she wanted to. Her business grew. Shebought a field and planted a vineyard. He praised her. He told others at the gates what a remarkable woman his wife was. He showed others the garments his wife made for him to wear. He recognized that in spite of her busy activities, she bought up her children well so that they too rose up and blessed her.

He was not a dictator. He did not chide her for getting up early and leaving him alone v hen she traveled. He wanted her to b e free and happy. He did not grumble. He trusted her when she was away on her business trips and waited for her return with excitement because he loved her truly. He admired her ability and efficiency.

He gave her freedom—freedom to travel and do business—freedom of choice—freedom of speech. He did not tell her what to wear, how to do her hair, and how to do this and that. He was a God-fearing man, respected and known by people all around.

Who can find a husband like this one for his price is far above rubies and diamonds? The heart of his wife is bound up with his love. He loved her as Christ loved the Church. He is the one behind her, the cause of her success, the cause of her happiness. Are there any more husbands like this one? I would like to know!

Birol Christ o is a former Shepherdess Coordinator for the Southern Asia Division. Birol and her husband, Gerald, are retired and living in Maranatha Colony, Hasur, India.