The final chapter of Proverbs describes a godly, virtuous woman who commands respect and who any man would love to have as a wife. But who is she? What does this list of characteristics mean for modern Christian women? A closer reading of the passage reveals several interesting points about this lady.
Christian ladies tend to look up to a particular biblical figure: the Proverbs 31 woman. Who is this mysterious woman and how can we emulate her? Take a closer look here. #ORBC #biblestudy Share on X
A Strong, Determined Woman
The woman of Proverbs 31 is certainly no pushover. She makes plans and executes them with her family’s best interests in mind. In verse 16, when “She considers a field and buys it,” she doesn’t get permission from anyone (even her husband!)–she simply makes what she knows is an excellent choice, and her family benefits from it.
At the same time, however, her strength doesn’t make her husband look weak by comparison. On the contrary, “Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.” Gates in ancient Israel referred to centers of judgment and governance, indicating that her husband either holds a governmental position or is highly respected by those who do. Her husband is as strong and driven as she is!
A Woman of Excellent Character
Proverbs 31 also tells us this is a woman of noble character. Not only is she up before sunrise ensuring her family has plenty of food, but she also makes time to help the less fortunate. She recognizes that she has been blessed and wants to share her blessings with others in any way she can.
This lady “does not eat the bread of idleness” either. The Bible describes her working late into the night, getting up early every morning, handmaking clothes to sell, and purchasing supplies for all her activities. She works hard! She goes above and beyond to keep her family clothed and fed.
Grow Deeper: The Proverbs 31 woman is trustworthy, both to her husband and others. Everyone knows she honors her word and goes out of her way to help others.
Praised by Others
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” Others recognize this lady’s character and godliness and rightly praise her for it. Her children, her husband, even strangers in the gates understand what a driven, godly woman she truly is. This doesn’t fall under mere flattery either–these people are genuinely in awe.
A Woman Who Fears the Lord
The Proverbs 31 woman doesn’t exist and likely never has. No one could keep up the level of activity and work this lady puts in, after all. But this chapter gives us a list of praiseworthy characteristics for us to strive towards in our everyday lives. As you study Proverbs 31, use the lessons you find to mold yourself into a hardworking, godly woman of strength and dignity.
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