Proverbs 14 of 14: Epilogue – A Wife of Noble Character

Proverbs 31:10-31

Today we come to the Epilogue of Proverbs, words that describe an incredible woman, a wife that surpasses them all. Volumes have been published on this section in Proverbs, entire organizations founded to honor women, etc. I’m not trying to add to the list at all, just taking time this morning to honor my wife and listen for that which God wants me to hear today.

Strong and Independent Wife

It’s fascinating that a culture in which women are subjugated to men we find this passage that stands out among few that honors, even promotes, strength and wisdom of women, especially an amazing wife. To be clear, I’ve never thought of women as second-class or in any way inferior or superior to men. We were both created in the image of God, distinctly different and perfectly designed to be better as a couple than as two individuals. Oddly enough, as the proverbs that describes fools, sluggards, the wicked, etc., the image in my mind is always a man. Outside of the specific proverbs that address adulterous women, it’s men I see acting like idiots, so I guess it’s true–I am biased!

As a father of four daughters, my prayer is they would embrace the traits listed here, that they would be as strong and independent as their mom.

1. virtuous and capable
2. more precious than rubies
3. trustworthy
4. always does good
5. works hard, tirelessly
6. prudent in business
7. prepared for all seasons
8. kind to the poor
9. resourceful
10. full of wise words, speaks with kindness
11. strong and dignified
12. praised by her husband

As a husband of nearly 30 years, I see an accurate description of my amazing wife.

This isn’t a list to be checked each morning for compliance, it’s simply an observation that honors those who have found wisdom. More than that, this is a portrait of a woman that put wisdom to work.

Who can find a virtuous and capable wife?
She is more precious than rubies.
Her husband can trust her,
and she will greatly enrich his life.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
Proverbs 31:10-12

 

Time. Years, not minutes. It takes time to see the fruit of a solid moral character as described throughout Proverbs. In a society that always seems to be in a hurry, it’s important to slow down and reflect on the blessings that are right in front of us. When stressful days seem to overwhelm us, when we are at odds with circumstances that could tear our relationship apart, we take a walk and assure each other that our intention are good,  that we are on the same team. My wife is especially adept at navigating these times.

Her husband is well known at the city gates,
where he sits with the other civic leaders.
Proverbs 31:23

The result of selfless intent, my wife honors me and I hope to honor her. The evidence of which is noticed by others, but that isn’t the goal, just an observation.

She is clothed with strength and dignity,
and she laughs without fear of the future.
When she speaks, her words are wise,
and she gives instructions with kindness.
Proverbs 31:25-26

Strong, intelligent, wise, confident, independent–just a few words that describe my wife. Being independent is not often a quality that people appreciate in marriage, but one that is incredibly important to me. She speaks with confidence and wisdom…kindness is a goal!

Her children stand and bless her.
Her husband praises her:
“There are many virtuous and capable women in the world,
but you surpass them all!”
Proverbs 31:28-29

No doubt about it, our children will happily stand and provide testimony to their mom. The bookends of a great poem to an amazing wife, no pressure dear, you are indeed virtuous and capable!

Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
Proverbs 31:30

Wisdom begins with reverent fear of the Lord, with deep knowledge of the truth that comes from the Lord of creation. Knowing my wife is one that seeks to honor God in all she does challenges me to do the same. I hope we are better as a result.

Reward her for all she has done.
Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
Proverbs 31:31

 

Amen!