Proverbs 11:16 - Homilies By E. Johnson

The true grace of womanhood

Even as the mighty keep a firm hold upon their possessions, so does the virtuous woman watch over her chastity and honour, to guard it from assault.

I. THE PURITY OF WOMAN IS HER " HIDDEN STRENGTH " (Milton). "She that has that is clad in complete steel."

II. IT IS HER CHIEF ORNAMENT . It clothes her amidst dangers with "unblenched majesty" and "noble grace."

III. IT IS ROOTED IN RELIGION , FOUNDED LIKE MANLY TRUTH IN THE FEAR OF GOD .

IV. IT IS PRECIOUS IN THE SIGHT OF GOD .

"So dear to Heaven is saintly chastity,

That when a soul is found sincerely so.

A thousand liveried angels lackey her,

Driving far off each thing of sin and guilt,

And in clear dream and solemn vision

Tell her of things that no gross ear can hear."

(Milton.)

J.