The most important consideration as to whether or not a woman should work outside the home is that a couple reach a decision together, seeking the mind of the Lord. But perhaps our younger sisters would be willing to hear a word of caution. In the first verse above, it says a young woman should be a keeper at home. In JND’s New Translation it says “diligent in home work,” so it seems clear that a married woman’s first calling would be to make sure her house work can be done in a way that is pleasing to the Lord and to her husband before she considers doing anything outside the home.
The second verse above refers to an immoral woman. In 1 Samuel 2:9 it says, “He will keep the feet of His saints.” So even in this ungodly world the Lord will keep us if we are walking in communion with Him and in the path that is in accordance to His will. We cannot count on Him to keep us if we are walking in self-will and disobedience.
Most of us have heard that the divorce rate is just as high with Christians as with the unsaved. In Malachi 2:1616For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16) we read that God hates putting away — divorce. What is causing this awful thing among God’s people? I can’t help but wonder if women working outside the home is part of the problem. Proverbs 28:2626He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered. (Proverbs 28:26) says, “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool.” Working for eight hours a day with someone who is not your spouse can be a temptation to a wrong relationship.
It seems God has given the home as a safeguard for the woman. If finances are a reason for wanting to work, we need to first ask ourselves, Am I being content with what the Lord has given me in my husband’s income? Are there some ways I could cut corners and save? Perhaps the Lord will help you think of a way to earn a little money by working at home. Even here caution is needed that such work does not take our time away from our husbands and little ones–our first responsibilities.