In His Name Devotionals
THE WIFE OF NOBLE CHARACTER
In His Name Devotionals
THE WIFE OF NOBLE CHARACTER
“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10 NKJV)
The first full line of Proverbs 31 says, “The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him.” This queen mother cared enough about her son to teach him her values. However, the list of skills and qualities she encourages for him to look for in a woman can be exhausting. This “excellent wife” was expected to be self-confident, trustworthy, good with money, devoted to her husband, creative, a good cook, a land developer, strong in character and muscle, sensitive, hardworking, generous, an expert seamstress, a wonderful decorator, well-dressed, quick to laugh, never idle, loved by her children, praised by her husband, faithful to God, and well respected by the entire community.
Many women read this chapter and are often left feeling inadequate. It is a mistake to assume that all of the virtues in this section are to be embodied in any one woman. This proverbial description of womanhood was meant to be a “best of” listing.
So many women today look at themselves and feel as if they are coming up short. The truth is, however, that we are “taller” than we think. God wants us to be ourselves. He knows our human weaknesses. By being ourselves we must learn to depend on God. He alone can guide us from human imperfection to divine perfection.
The excellent woman of Proverbs 31 serves as a mentor for all women. Her wisdom spans the ages, and her truths are eternal. Women today should aspire to this excellence realizing that with God’s help, all things are possible.
The woman of Proverbs 31 lived her life of service in this order:
(1) God;
(2) Family;
(3) Church/Community; and
(4) Work.
The woman of today also values these four areas of service. Yet, these four areas are often found out of order. The ancient proverb reminds us to turn our own lists and lives around. It is the character we display daily, and the love we share with others that will ensure a proper goal has been reached for future generations.
