The book of Proverbs is known for its wise teachings and advice. It gives us a much practical guide for how we should live a righteous and prudent life. Apart from that, many of the answers we seek, to the ever-changing questions of life, can be found in this book of wisdom.
Some of these include;
How do I make wise decisions? Answer: Seek Good
Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
How do I become successful? Answer: Honor God with your wealth
Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
Why is this happening to me? Answer: Trust in God, do not lean on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”
PROVERBS 31
One of the most popular chapters found in this centuries old book of wisdom, is Proverbs 31. In this chapter, we find the well-known description of what a wife of noble character can be. This was written by King Lemuel, but was inspired by the wise teachings of his mother.
She wanted her son, the King, to choose a wife of noble and virtuous character. Every mother wants what’s best for their children, and Lemuel’s mother ensured that her son knew what qualities he should look for in his wife.
In my analysis of the verses in Proverbs 31, I was able to identify and extract key qualities of a noble woman. Not only can it help shape the character and mindsets of women, but it can also help men to understand the value of such a woman. In return, they will be able to identify and choose such a woman, when looking for a wife.
THE 12 QUALITIES OF THE PROVERBS 31 WOMAN
1. Trustworthy
“Her husband can trust her” Proverbs 31:11
We can all agree that trust is a major factor across all types of relationships. It is one of those things that can make or break a situation, because it holds such weight within us. Being trustworthy means that we are reliable, honest, and consistent in our words and actions. It is a fundamental characteristic that we should possess, because it instils confidence and faith in others, knowing that they can depend on us to fulfil our commitments and responsibilities. When we are trustworthy, we demonstrate integrity in all aspects of life.
2. Enriches Life
“She will greatly enrich his life. She brings him good, not harm” Proverbs 31:11-12
The noble wife enriches the life of her husband. She elevates his life and adds value to it because she is valuable. To be a life enricher means we bring positive and valuable contributions to the lives of others. This leads to improvements and growth in their lives, which can occur emotionally, intellectually, socially, financially, romantically and much more.
3. Skillful
“She finds wool and flax and busily spins it” (for clothing and textiles) Proverbs 31:13
The virtuous wife holds a high level of capability and expertise in a particular area. She sharpens and uses her skills with strategy, to provide for others and her family.
4. Resourceful & Organized
“She is like a merchant’s ship, bringing her food from afar. She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day’s work for her servant girls” Proverbs 31:14-15
She goes to great lengths to obtain resources for her family, carefully selecting and ensuring it is sufficient to meet the needs of her household. She rises each day to take care of her family and carefully plans and organizes the course of the day. She is strategic in how she handles the workload, not being afraid to have help.
5. Strategic Investor
“She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard.” Proverbs 31:16
The noble wife is a business woman and investor. She carefully analyses her potential investments before she makes a decision. She understands how finances work and the importance of having cash flowing assets. She uses her gains to invest further and build more assets for her family. She seeks to create generational wealth for her family.
6. Strong Work Ethic
“She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night” Proverbs 31:17-18
She is persistent and dedicated to her work. Her diligence guarantees that whatever she does reaps success. She is committed to constantly putting in the effort, time and energy required to achieve high-level, high-quality results and abundant rewards.
7. Generous
“She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy” Proverbs 31:20
This honorable woman is selfless and compassionate towards others. She takes care of those in need and gives without expecting anything in return. She has a kind and generous heart, thinking of others and their well-being. She is involved in volunteerism, charitable work and anything she can do to help others.
8. Fearless and Faith filled
“She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes” Proverbs 31:21
She does not worry or become afraid of the difficult seasons in life. She knows that her family is provided for and will have all that they need, to make it through challenging times. She has faith that no matter what storms come their way; she shall not want.
9. Dresses Modestly
“She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns” Proverbs 31:22
In biblical times, fine linen often symbolized wealth, luxury, purity and beauty. It was a fabric that was considered to be very valuable and prestigious. Likewise, purple gowns represented royalty, nobility, wealth and authority. When the noble woman dresses in fine linen and purple gowns she embodies all of these, she dresses like a queen, which demands honor and respect.
10. Entrepreneur
“She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants” Proverbs 31:24
As an entrepreneur she identifies a business opportunity or idea and takes on the risks to bring her idea to fruition. She is an innovative visionary, using her skills wisely to generate various sources of income for herself and her family. This shows how resourceful, financially intelligent and ambitious such a woman of virtue is.
11. Strength in God
“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25
Her qualities are an integral part of her, she is capable and resilient, yet she conducts herself with grace and class. She does not worry about the future; she does not feel the need to be anxious about tomorrow. She is confident and certain that her future is bright. She prepares for it and clothes herself with her faith in God, so she can be fearless of the future.
12. Speaker and Teacher
“She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26
She speaks with wisdom, not thoughtless or careless words. They are clothed with intelligence, discernment, and spiritual principles. She also speaks with kindness; she isn’t arrogant or prideful. Her words instruct kindness, it isn’t harsh or critical. They are filled with gentleness and empathy. Her words are comforting to counsel others and help them.
Conclusion
The qualities of a Proverbs 31 woman, as described above, serves as a timeless and inspiring guide for us all. She embodies wisdom, kindness, resourcefulness, all while demonstrating unwavering faith and resilience. Her character and her identity are a testament to the idea that a virtuous and capable individual can make a profound impact on their family, community, and the world.
The Proverbs 31 Woman reminds us that true strength lies not only in outward appearances but in the way we conduct ourselves with grace, integrity, and a commitment to serving others. Her example encourages us to strive for wisdom, kindness, and hard work in all our endeavors, ultimately leaving a legacy of love, compassion, and enduring virtue.
Strive to be someone that leaves a mark on the world, and imprints on the hearts of your loved ones. Be a light, and shine bright for all to see you.