THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
She continues by stating, "Your servant will find favor in your sight," indicating that had you understood the ultimate conclusion and fulfillment of my plea—that my request arose not from drunkenness but from deep sorrow. It is said of her, "Her face was not downcast." Can you see the faith of this woman? Before she even received what she sought, she already exhibited joy, as if it had been granted to her. This was due to her fervent prayer and unwavering commitment. As a result, she approached as though all had been fulfilled. Furthermore, God, knowing her desire, alleviated her sorrow. Let us aspire to her example; in times of distress, may we also seek the Lord. If we find ourselves without children, let us earnestly request them.
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And if we are blessed with children, let us nurture them with great diligence, shielding them from all that is wicked, particularly from greed. Temptations related to this sin are powerful, and nothing captivates this generation quite like such desires. Hence, let us protect our children with guidance, encouragement, fear, and admonition. If they conquer this vice, they will be less likely to fall prey to another; rather, they will rise above temptations involving the love of money, defeat, and drunkenness, striving to avoid corrupt behavior and immoral company. This will make them more amiable and gracious to everyone. Indeed, who will not honor a humble young man? Who will not welcome a soul who has mastered impure urges? Who among the wealthiest would not be delighted to give away his daughter to such a youth, even if he is of modest means? Just as no one would desire a reckless and extravagant man as a son-in-law, regardless of his wealth, no one would be foolish enough to overlook the value of a modest and virtuous individual. Therefore, for the sake of ensuring that our children are respected by others and find favor with God, let us nurture their spirits and guide them into chaste unions. When we do so, all earthly blessings will flow to them abundantly, and they will experience God’s mercy, granting them both current and eternal glory, which we may all achieve through the grace and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory, honor, and power, together with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.