Includes bibliographical references (pages 255-256.).

Part one : A wife's understanding : foundational truths for the excellent wife. The excellent wife : who can find? -- A wife's understanding of God : God's protective authority -- A wife's understanding of sin : God's provision -- A wife's understanding of relationships : God's pattern -- A wife's understanding of marriage : God's purpose -- A wife's understanding of her role : God's perfect plan -- Part two : A wife's responsibility : faithful commitments of the excellent wife. Christ : the wife's heart -- Home : the wife's domain -- Love : the wife's choice -- Respect : the wife's reverence -- Intimacy : the wife's response -- Submission : the wife's joy -- Part three : A wife's submission : fulfillment of the excellent wife. Biblical submission : basis of the wife's protection -- God's provision : resources for the wife's protection -- Honoring Christ : key to the wife's motivation -- Communication : control of the wife's tongue -- Conflict : quietness of the wife's spirit -- Part four : A wife's special concerns : sin problems of the excellent wife. The wife's anger : overcoming impatience -- The wife's fear : overcoming anxiety -- The wife's loneliness : overcoming a lack of oneness -- The wife's sorrow : overcoming a broken heart -- Postscript -- Addendum : The "put off, put on" dynamic.

The Excellent Wife is an absolute must for women today. This book is a welcomed first because it is a Scripturally based, systematic and practical work for today's women. Within its pages is a detailed portrait of a godly wife. Not only is the standard high and holy, but Martha demonstrates that by God's grace, it is attainable. Knowing Martha and Sanford personally only enhances the reading of this book, for truly they are a trophy of God's grace in their lives.