Proverbs 31

I saw this on someone else's blog a few weeks ago so I'm definitely NOT the creator of this, but I wanted to share it anyway. The original post can be found here.


I love staying home with James. I love that I don't have to worry about 150 other "children" and their needs before coming home to my own child every night. I completely understand that it is not for every person, but for us it was the only way. That being said, I do not love all that goes along with staying home. Specifically? The house-keeping part. I love to have a clean house, but I don't like the effort it takes. Lately, I've had to remind myself that it is disrespectful to stay home and not get anything done while Eddie works to allow me to stay home. And so, Proverbs 31:10-31...

10 [a] A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her

and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,

all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax

and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,

bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark;

she provides food for her family

and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it;

out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;

her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,

and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff

and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor

and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;

for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;

she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,

where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,

and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;

she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,

and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household

and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;

her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things,

but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;

but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned,

and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

So what does that mean today?

Characteristics of the Proverbs 31 Woman:
* Works willingly and is a good steward over finances.
* Does chores diligently and makes sure that her family is well fed and groceries are stocked.
* Keeps herself physically fit. Works hard. Not afraid of physical labor. Takes care of her home and family.
* Productive and wise in business dealings. Always seeking ways to grow and learn.
* Not a professional seamstress, but knows how to sew a button or repair a seam.
* Has compassion for the poor and less privileged. Has a heart of charity and love.
* Chooses quality over quantity. Is prepared for the winter (difficult times) and makes wise purchases.
* Respects and prays for her husband. Supports him publicly.
* Has the ability to manage business and/or self-employment opportunity.
* Has strength and dignity about herself. She is confident and trusts in God for all things.
* Speaks words of wisdom. Is trusted by others to give sound advice.
* She is aware of what is happening in her household. She is not lazy or slothful.
* She is respected and trusted by her husband and her children.
* More concerned with integrity and inner beauty, than physical beauty. But keeps herself well-maintained.
* Others compliment her on her character, talents, and integrity.