May 7, 2008

  • Proverbs 31

    A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.

    Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.

    Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long.

    She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing.

    She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises.

    She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.

    She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.

    First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.

    She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.

    She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking.

    She's quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor.

    She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.

    She makes her own clothing and dresses in colorful linens and silks.

    Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers.

    She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.

    Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.

    When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly.

    She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive.

    Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:

    "Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!"

    Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.  The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.

    Give her everything she deserves!  Festoon her life with praises! 

    Proverbs 31:10-31 MSG

    Like the old adage that says, "pretty is as pretty does," the value of a woman does not depend on her physical beauty, but rather on her inner qualities, which are manifested in charitable actions toward her family and community.  The Proverbs 31 woman seems to be a super mother, making it impossible for anyone to live up to all her ideals.  Instead of living up to all her ideals, I use her as the goal I strive for.  She inspires me to live in fear of the Lord and to be faithful to my family.  I want to be faithful to my family and community, giving gifts, talents, and time to the service of others.  Doing so promises that our children will "respect and bless" us and our husbands will join in with "words of praise."