THE VIRTUOUS WIFE OF PROVERBS 31
This figure is described in the final chapter of the Book of Proverbs in the Old Testament, where she is portrayed as an ideal woman, embodying virtues such as wisdom, strength, diligence, and compassion.
PROVERBS 31
A Wife of Noble Character
10
Who can find a virtuous and capable wife She is more precious than rubies.
11
Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life.
12
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13
She finds wool and flax and busily spins it.
14
She is like a merchant’s ship, bringing her food from afar.
15
She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day’s work for her servant girls.
16
She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17
She is energetic and strong, a hard worker.
18
She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night.
19
Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber.
20
She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy.
21
She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm[c] clothes.
22
She makes her own bedspreads. She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns.
23
Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with the other civic leaders.
24
She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants.
25
She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.
26
When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.
27
She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness.
28
Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:
29
“There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!”
30
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
31
Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
DISCUSSION STARTERS
How does the Proverbs 31 woman exemplify strength and dignity, and how can these traits be developed in today's context?
How does she balance her responsibilities at home and in the community, and what strategies can we employ to achieve a similar balance?
What kind of legacy does the Proverbs 31 woman leave behind, and what steps can we take to ensure we leave a positive impact on those around us?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word. Today, we lift our hearts to You, seeking to embody the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman. Grant us strength and dignity in all our actions, and fill our spirit with kindness and wisdom. Help us to be industrious and resourceful, managing our responsibilities with love and care.
May we nurture our relationships with compassion and grace, serving our family and community with a joyful heart. Teach us to be a good steward of the blessings You have bestowed upon us, using them to honor You and uplift those around us.
Guide our steps in faith, and let our life be a reflection of Your love and righteousness. May we leave a legacy of goodness and inspire others to walk in Your light.
In Jesus' name, we pray.
Amen.