Reflections on Proverbs 31
It is truly remarkable how society has changed within my lifetime—especially the perception, role, and character of women.
My mother was born in the 1940s, my grandmother in the 1920s, and my great-grandmother at the turn of the century. Three generations of strong, resilient women raised me, each shaping my understanding of womanhood.
My great-grandmother lived in a time when women couldn’t own land in their name—yet she did.
My grandmother lovingly cared for her husband, not only ironing his shirts and pants but even his undergarments!
My mother, an extraordinary woman, worked three jobs just to provide for me.
I could share countless stories of these priceless women, but one truth stands out: the wisdom of Proverbs speaks volumes about women.
The Women of Proverbs: A Contrast
Throughout the book of Proverbs, women appear in stark contrast. On one end, there’s the adulterous woman—seductive, deceitful, and destructive. Her lips drip honey, but she leads men astray. Then, there’s the boisterous woman—loud, quarrelsome, and unbearable. Proverbs warns that it’s better to live on a rooftop than share a home with her.
And then, at the end of Proverbs, in Chapter 31, we find the Priceless Woman.
A Mother’s Final Words
Proverbs 31 begins with King Lemuel’s mother’s wisdom—a mother giving her son parting advice. Though we know little about King Lemuel, we know his mother was a wise, God-fearing woman. As her son prepared for a life of leadership, she imparted crucial lessons:
Do not give your strength to women who destroy kings. Be disciplined. Look at Samson—he laid his head in the wrong woman’s lap, exposed his vulnerability, and lost his strength.
Avoid strong drink, for it clouds judgment. A leader must think clearly.
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Defend the oppressed, the voiceless, the forgotten.
Choose the right woman. She tells her son: I won’t always be here. You must learn to stand on your own. But whatever you do—choose wisely.
Choosing Wisely: The Priceless Woman
A mother who understands the power of a woman—whether like Delilah or Jezebel, who led men to ruin, or a noble woman who builds up her home—wants her son to seek the right one. She describes this ideal woman through seven defining qualities:
Courageous (v10) – The word “noble” in Hebrew is often a military term, meaning valiant and strong. She does not shrink in fear.
Trustworthy (v11-12) – Her husband trusts her fully, making himself vulnerable, knowing she will care for him and their household.
Diligent (v13-19) – Hardworking, entrepreneurial, and financially responsible, she provides for her family.
Compassionate (v20) – She is kind and gives generously to the poor and needy.
Prudent (v21-22, 24-25) – She prepares for the future. She does not fear what is to come because she has made provisions.
Honorable (v23, 28, 31) – Her character brings honor to her husband and family. They rise and call her blessed.
God-Fearing (v26, 30) – Her beauty is not external but comes from her reverence for the Lord.
The Ultimate Priceless One
The Proverbs 31 woman embodies the virtues we should all strive for—but ultimately, only Christ fully embodies them.
He showed valor, facing the cross to win the battle between heaven and hell.
He was trustworthy, diligent, and compassionate, healing the sick and caring for the broken.
He was prudent, knowing His path led to suffering, yet walking it anyway.
He endured the most shameful death to honor His Father—who then honored Him.
And He did it all because He loves us.
A priceless woman is rare and invaluable. But the ultimate Priceless One—Christ—is the true example of love, sacrifice, and wisdom.
Comments