By Sharon Akuboh
Women have been urged to build their lives around godly character, wisdom, kindness and positive impact rather than beauty, age, marital status, position or material possessions.
The charge was given by Princess Joy Omagha Idam, who delivered a special Women’s Day sermon at the Voice of Victory International Gospel Ministries, Suleja, Niger State, where she spoke on the theme, “The Mark of the Virtuous Woman.”
Speaking from the biblical passage, Proverbs 31:10–31, Idam said the true worth of a woman was not determined by what she possessed but by the quality of her character and the impact she made on the lives of others.
She said, “A virtuous woman is valuable because of who she is, not just because of what she has,” stressing that women must recognise their God-given worth and refuse to allow rejection, disappointment or the opinions of others to define them.
According to her, women should also resist unhealthy competition and instead celebrate and support one another, noting that another woman’s success does not diminish the accomplishments or potential of others.
Idam further described character as one of the greatest marks of a virtuous woman, saying that while beauty could attract attention, character ultimately earns respect.
She urged women to remain trustworthy, honest and dependable, adding that the true test of character was how a person behaved when nobody was watching.
The preacher also challenged women to become builders in their homes, families, workplaces and communities, saying that even when confronted with disappointment or heartbreak, a woman could rise again and continue building.
“A woman can cry and still be strong. She can be wounded and still be a builder,” she said.
Idam equally emphasised the importance of responsible communication, urging women to be mindful of the power of their words.
Quoting Proverbs 31:26, she said a virtuous woman should speak with wisdom and kindness, using her voice to encourage, inspire, correct and uplift rather than destroy other women.
She encouraged women to consider whether their words were true, necessary and kind before speaking.
According to her, however, the greatest mark of a virtuous woman remains her relationship with God.
Quoting Proverbs 31:30, Idam noted that beauty and favour were temporary, while a woman who feared and honoured God would earn lasting praise.
She therefore challenged the women to reflect on what they wanted to be remembered for, asking whether it would be their beauty, clothes and position or their character, kindness, faith and impact.
She urged them to become women who build, inspire and lift others, while leaving behind positive legacies that would bless their families, communities and future generations.
“Let us become women who don’t just seek to be noticed, but women who make a difference,” she said.
Idam expressed appreciation to the Lead Pastor of the ministry, Pastor Enetarea Paul, for the opportunity to minister to the women and for the warm reception accorded her and other guests at the Women’s Day celebration.
She concluded by praying for God’s blessings upon the women and urging them to live out the virtues of faith, wisdom, kindness and service in their daily lives.