What it means to be a Virtuous Daughter

by Emily 
from Virtuous Daughters, November 2010~Volume 10, Number 8

As Christian young ladies, it is our goal to become virtuous daughters. But what is a virtuous daughter, and how can we become one? The thirty-first chapter of Proverbs depicts the many qualities of a virtuous woman. If we look at the different characteristics discussed throughout the passage, we can begin to form a picture of what we should be. To become just such a daughter, it is important that we look to the Lord and His Word for instruction and for an example to follow. It is only with Christ’s help that we can become what He wants us to be!

A virtuous daughter is trustworthy. Proverbs 31:11 speaks of this quality. She can be counted on to do what is right, and to be responsible with what is entrusted to her care. If she is asked to do something, she makes sure she gets it done, and will also do a good job on it. Regardless of who she is with, and whether or not her parents can see her, she is obedient to their wishes, and always seeks to honor them with what she does or says.
   
A virtuous daughter works diligently. She doesn’t waste time in idle dreaming, but spends her time wisely in order to get much accomplished throughout the day. Never lazy or bored, she finds ways to make her spare time productive. The virtuous woman is not afraid of hard work, nor does she think some jobs are “beneath” her. Whatever needs to be done, she’ll work at it with a good attitude, doing all for God’s glory! Proverbs 31:27 says, “She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.”
   
A virtuous daughter is one who speaks words of kindness. She endeavors to think before she speaks, and allows only edifying words to be spoken. Her conversation will be uplifting and encouraging, not full of gossip or unkindness. Proverbs 31:26 tells us how she speaks: “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” A prayer for one seeking to develop this quality is found in Psalm 141:3, which says, “Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”
   
A virtuous daughter willingly serves her family, and uses her skills to bless them. Instead of thinking of herself first, she will look around to see what she can do for others. Sometimes this may mean setting aside her own projects or pleasure time, but she is content to know that by serving others she is really serving God! Various verses throughout Proverbs 31 tells us how the virtuous woman served and cared for her family; preparing food for them, making and keeping their clothes in good repair, etc.
   
A virtuous daughter will be beautiful on the inside. Instead of placing the greatest emphasis on the body, the Bible teaches us that what is on the inside is far more important. Proverbs 31:30 says, “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” In God’s sight, the loveliest ornament we can have is that of a meek and quiet spirit! 1 Peter 3:3–4 reminds us that this is what God values. “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”
   
​Though it will be difficult at times, and at times we will fail, don’t give up! God is ready to forgive and help us onward. Remember to seek the Lord, and His strength and grace, as you press on towards the goal of becoming a virtuous daughter!