Proverbs 31.  What a powerful chapter in the Bible that is not intended to make women feel as if they’re not “enough.”  Really, none of us are “enough” when the standard is a perfect and holy Christ (who clothes us in His righteousness).  Before you read it, have a different perspective and consider it from God’s pen.

• Did you know this was written by a mom to her son?  You have the privilege of influencing your children and their future choices!
• Don’t we tend to think that women in the Bible were lowly, domestic, servant-like sweethearts?  No way.  This chick is strong and hard-working….just like you!
• “I’m just a mom.  I don’t plant vineyards.  Why would I sew bed coverings?  I’m lucky to just get dinner on the table.”  What if the Proverbs 31 woman isn’t a woman?  What if she is simply the ideal woman?  We can’t imitate all this (I seem to have misplaced my spindle) but what an inspiration “she” is!   Let’s learn from this model.  Let’s put God first.  Have integrity.  Respect your man.  Help your household function well.
• Do you have a son?  The original audience of this proverb consisted of young men as a way to teach them how to pick a great wife.  Don’t you want a hard-working, valuable, selfless, wise daughter-in-law for that boy?  Teach him to look for a top-notch bride.
• Do you have a daughter?  Proverbs 31 is like a mini manual from the Lord for her.  Teach her to be trustworthy, caring, fearless, helpful, and strong.

Read this slowly, absorbing each line. You are to be praised! – Debbie

Proverbs 31:10-31 The Message Hymn to a Good Wife

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’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.

A good woman is hard to find

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’squick 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.

Whenshe 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.

Herchildren 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!

By Debbie