By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Finding Honor
Proverbs 31:10–16, 23–31
Commitment to Her Husband (10–12)
The climax of the Book of Proverbs is a poem in praise of the ideal woman. She is a role model. The “wife of noble character” demonstrates the qualities and purposes God had in mind when He divinely designed the woman in Genesis.
“Noble character” refers to a wife of strength and great value. She is more precious than costly jewels. The family with a noble, godly wife and mother should treasure her far more than even the most valuable material possessions.
The husband of a noble wife entrusts himself and his future to her as his exclusive partner and helper. Uniquely, this is the only place in the Bible that commends trusting anything but God. There is no inconsistency, however, because this wife is a godly woman who fulfills her God-given design. This godly woman graciously submits herself to the leadership of her own husband, but she participates actively in work that benefits her family. She faithfully honors her lifelong covenant to her husband.
Wise in Her Work (13–16)
In these verses we observe the godly wife’s diligence. In the culture of ancient Israel, women had to stay busy in their spare time spinning wool and making clothes. Doing this faithfully was a feminine virtue, and this woman is faithful. She “works with willing hands.” Literally, she works “with the delight of her hands.” She takes pleasure in creating something of beauty and usefulness.
She adds variety to the lives of her family by trading goods produced at home for food and merchandise the household cannot provide for itself. She serves her husband and family well by moving her household from a subsistence economy to a mercantile economy.
Arising before dawn implies that she is not slothful. She rises early and prepares food for her family and portions for her female servants. She fully understands the work and abilities of each person in her care.
This wife of noble character has both a good head for business and personal initiative. With her keen business sense, she has managed to save enough money to purchase a field. And not just any field. She researches the field’s condition and potential for her family before making the purchase of the property. She is wise in her work and her ways.
Sure in Her Reputation (23–27)
With a wife like this, it is no surprise that her husband is respected by the leaders of the city. Those who gather at the city gate transact legal and judicial affairs. The wife’s honor is well-known among them, and she enhances her husband’s prestige rather than overshadowing him.
She not only has fine clothing and furnishings for herself and her household, but she also has manufactured enough to sell the excess for a profit. She is skillful and industrious enough to supply merchants with luxury items like linen garments and belts.
Being a woman of strength and character, she does not fear whatever may come. She is a skillful teacher and well acquainted with wisdom. By the grace of God, she righteously applies true knowledge. She instructs others in wisdom from a loving heart. This wife of noble character does not indulge in laziness.
Honored through Fearing God (28–31)
This ideal wife and mother receives the appreciation she deserves as her family acknowledges how she has blessed their lives. Her children call her “blessed,” implying she sees her calling in life as a gift from God, not as an intolerable burden. Her positive approach and passion for life inspire her husband to echo the children’s praise.
The Book of Proverbs concludes with a closing summary of the type of woman a godly man should pursue as his wife. She “fears the Lord.” Godly character counts most.
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