The Virtuous Woman of Proverbs 31

[Stewart (SDA)]

The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31.

For us individually, and collectively, there are good lessons all the way through the illustration.

The "virtuous woman" describes the Christian in relation to Christ. The virtuous woman also describes the Church just prior to Jesus’ return.

She is a woman of rank (clothed in silk and purple v.22); she has female servants under her (v.15), and yet she is intensely practical and hard working --- her privileged position does not lift her up in pride.

She takes initiative -- significant initiative at times (v.16), and yet "the heart of her husband safely trusts in her".

He safely trusts in her. (Oh may we all press toward this mark!) She resolves never to abuse her husband’s confidence, and she does him good, and only good, in the management of the household. (v.11,12.)

She brings her food "from afar" (v.14), which is to say, she brings sustenance from heaven, and nourishes her family.

She looks well to the ways [i.e. the conduct] of her household (v.27), and yet "on her tongue is the law of kindness" (v.26).

Every part of the description is full of value.

Who can find this virtuous woman? She is very rare. And "her price"? Her price is far above rubies. Getting her will cost more than we have.

[joeb]

I married her....

[Gerr]

Rare indeed!!!

[olger]

And I.