Taking Steps by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin on 10/09/2006 at 9:04 AM

Readers Anna and Blair ask how — specifically — single women can develop the godly character David talked about. David explained that when he says women are taking the "physical steps" to prepare, he means that Christian women are abstaining from sex outside of marriage. His frustration is that they seem to be doing little more. While purity is important, it is a defensive position. Women should consider how they might also be offensive in their spiritual lives. Are we daily pushing ourselves to greater sacrifice? Are we developing practical skills that would be helpful in a home? Are we serving others with the gifts the Lord has given us?

David says he would like to see more women pursuing their interests and calling instead of simply waiting around for a husband. Carolyn McCulley offers wonderful advice on preparing to be a wife and mother while still single. She suggests practicing hospitality, nurturing other people's children and loving your future husband. These actions require planning and discipline in our busy, self-centered culture, but the benefits are many.

Also, pray for guidance as you choose a career path. The Lord leads us step by step, so there is no need to have anxiety about decisions that may be several years down the road. Pursue something that you have aptitude for and enjoy doing. Skills you develop through education or job experience can help you in your future role as a wife and mother, so don't think of it as wasted time. A job need not become a barrier to marriage, either. Ask God to keep you pliable as you make important life decisions, and trust He is molding you into a woman who will bless others.

Taking Steps by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin on 10/09/2006 at 9:04 AM

Readers Anna and Blair ask how — specifically — single women can develop the godly character David talked about. David explained that when he says women are taking the "physical steps" to prepare, he means that Christian women are abstaining from sex outside of marriage. His frustration is that they seem to be doing little more. While purity is important, it is a defensive position. Women should consider how they might also be offensive in their spiritual lives. Are we daily pushing ourselves to greater sacrifice? Are we developing practical skills that would be helpful in a home? Are we serving others with the gifts the Lord has given us?

David says he would like to see more women pursuing their interests and calling instead of simply waiting around for a husband. Carolyn McCulley offers wonderful advice on preparing to be a wife and mother while still single. She suggests practicing hospitality, nurturing other people's children and loving your future husband. These actions require planning and discipline in our busy, self-centered culture, but the benefits are many.

Also, pray for guidance as you choose a career path. The Lord leads us step by step, so there is no need to have anxiety about decisions that may be several years down the road. Pursue something that you have aptitude for and enjoy doing. Skills you develop through education or job experience can help you in your future role as a wife and mother, so don't think of it as wasted time. A job need not become a barrier to marriage, either. Ask God to keep you pliable as you make important life decisions, and trust He is molding you into a woman who will bless others.