In Scripture, women are called "to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, ... subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored." The term "workers at home" literally means "stayers at home" or "guards." Would anyone leave a fort of military installation unprotected? No. He would hire sensible, self-controlled guards to keep it safe. Husbands and wives together are shepherds of their child's soul. Men have been given guardianship as part of their role, but women also have a critical part to play in the protection of their offspring.

Women are sensitive to the hidden matters of the heart and innately designed to be protectors of the unseen world. A woman's duty in the family can be summarized as the spiritual guard of both heart and hearth. Just as a hired sentry can see physical trouble coming and take steps to prevent it, woman are uniquely created to sense spiritual trouble when it comes near and to ward it off. They are to guard the hearts of their families "with all diligence" for out of the heart spring the issues and forces of life.

When the woman is paying attention she will pick up on matters of the heart in her family. Sometimes one may just need an encouraging word about themselves or to be able to talk to someone. If we stay attentive we can perceive these needs and take them to the Lord in prayer.

Meditation Scripture: Titus 2:4-5; Proverbs 4:23; Proverbs 31:15, 21, 27