Proverbs 31 Woman

One of the silliest advertisements I ever saw was in a Christian women’s magazine. I don’t recall what it was advertising, but the catchline read something like “There’s far more to the modern woman than Proverbs 31”. Now I don’t know if the person who composed the advert had ever given Proverbs 31 more than a cursory read, but my immediate thought was, “Go and have another look at the passage!”

What are we to make of the Proverbs 31 woman? If the passage was written by Solomon, he certainly had the opportunity to observe a variety of women, being  the husband of many. So what are the characteristics to be prized – a beautiful face, youth and an attractive body? Today’s media would certainly have us think so.

Given that we believe that all scripture is authored by God, what do we learn from Him through this passage about the traits of a desirable woman? For starters, this lady who is to be prized above precious jewels is described as capable, intelligent and virtuous (31:10). The opening verse of this passage concentrates not on her looks, but her character. The subsequent verses outline her character attributes more fully:

• She’s morally trustworthy within her marriage. She comforts and helps her husband and encourages him to work honestly. He is able to take his place in society without fear of scandal.

• She’s a hard worker, providing what is needed for her household, both in a material and spiritual sense.

• She considers opportunities for honest gain, increase and fruitfulness. (v16) This may be in a business sense, or the verse may also be symbolic of growth and fruitfulness in more personal areas.

• She has strength and courage because of her dependency on God. She knows He will equip her to face whatever trials life may bring.

• She is generous to the poor and needy.

• “her lamp goes not out.” (v18). Like the wise virgins in the parable of Matthew 25, she is prepared for what may happen in the future, because she has worked hard physically and is in right relationship with God spiritually. In fact verse 25 states that she “rejoices over the future”. She knows who holds the future in His hands.

• When she speaks, it’s with kindness, wisdom and counsel, without gossiping or complaining.

• She loves and reverences God. Although this attribute appears almost at the end of the chapter, it is arguably the most important attribute anyone, man or woman can have. From love and reverence for God we love and serve others, and He enables us to develop to our best.

The Proverbs 31 woman is a special kind of gal. Someone I’d like to emulate. A woman for all time.