Introduction
Marriage is a sacred union designed by God, and the Bible speaks highly of the blessings that come with finding a good spouse. Proverbs 18:22 states, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord." This verse highlights the significance of marriage and the divine favor that comes with it.
But what does it really mean to "find a wife"? Is it simply about getting married, or is there a deeper meaning behind this verse? Let's explore the biblical perspective on marriage, the qualities of a godly wife, and how husbands can honor their role in this sacred relationship.
The Meaning of Proverbs 18:22
The phrase “he who finds a wife” suggests intentionality. It doesn’t say, "He who stumbles upon a wife" or "He who happens to get married." Finding a wife involves effort, prayer, and seeking God’s guidance.
This verse also implies that a wife is a blessing, not a burden. In today’s culture, marriage is often viewed as a challenge, but in God’s design, it is a source of joy, companionship, and spiritual growth. A godly wife enriches her husband’s life, providing love, support, and wisdom.
A Wife as a Good Thing
God designed marriage to be a reflection of His love for the Church (Ephesians 5:25). When a man finds a wife who honors the Lord, he experiences numerous blessings, including:
- Companionship – Marriage provides deep friendship and emotional support.
- Spiritual Strength – A godly wife encourages her husband to grow in faith.
- Family Stability – A strong marriage creates a stable home for children.
- Encouragement and Wisdom – A wife can provide wise counsel and encouragement in difficult times.
Biblical Examples of Good Wives
The Bible provides many examples of godly wives:
- Ruth – She was faithful, hardworking, and committed to her husband, Boaz.
- Sarah – She supported Abraham, even through uncertainty.
- Proverbs 31 Woman – She was diligent, kind, and a blessing to her household.
These women demonstrated love, strength, and faithfulness—qualities that make a wife a "good thing" in a man's life.
Obtaining Favor from the Lord
The second part of Proverbs 18:22 states that a man who finds a wife “obtains favor from the Lord.” This means marriage is more than just a personal choice—it is a gift from God.
God blesses marriage when it is built on His principles. A husband and wife who honor Him will experience His grace, provision, and peace in their relationship.
How to Seek God’s Favor in Marriage
For those looking to marry or strengthen their marriage, here are some key ways to seek God’s favor:
- Put God First – Seek His guidance before entering into marriage.
- Pray for Your Future Spouse – Ask God to prepare your heart and your partner’s heart for a strong, godly relationship.
- Love and Respect One Another – Ephesians 5:33 instructs husbands to love their wives and wives to respect their husbands.
- Commit to Faithfulness – A strong marriage requires loyalty, trust, and effort.
- Grow Spiritually Together – Study the Bible and pray as a couple to strengthen your bond.
A Husband’s Responsibility in Marriage
While finding a wife is a blessing, maintaining a godly marriage requires effort. Husbands are called to:
- Love their wives as Christ loves the Church (Ephesians 5:25).
- Lead with humility and integrity (Colossians 3:19).
- Encourage and honor their wives (1 Peter 3:7).
A husband’s role is to cherish, protect, and support his wife, creating a marriage that reflects God's love.
Conclusion
Marriage is a beautiful gift from God, and finding a godly wife is a great blessing. Proverbs 18:22 reminds us that a wife is not just a companion but also a sign of God’s favor. For those seeking marriage, it is important to trust God’s timing and seek His wisdom. For those already married, nurturing love and faithfulness will bring continued blessings.
By following God’s design for marriage, couples can experience a relationship filled with love, joy, and divine favor.
