Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
Religion & Spirituality:Christianity
The Proverbs 31 Woman
Dr. Steven R. Cook
Proverbs 31 describes the woman of excellence. The phrase an excellent wife (Prov 31:10; Heb. אֵשֶׁת־חַיִל esheth chayil) was first used of Ruth, who was described as a woman of excellence (Ruth 3:11, NASB) or a woman of noble character (CSB). Ruth was the great-grandmother of King David, who married Bathsheba, who is perhaps the one who shared her wisdom with her son, King Solomon (Prov 31:1). If this is correct, then it’s possible Bathsheba saw in Ruth a template for the woman of noble character. A study of the book of Ruth reveals she was committed to God and His people (Ruth 1:16-17; 2:11), possessed a strong work ethic (Ruth 2:7, 17), listened to good advice (Ruth 2:8-9; 3:1-6), showed respect to others (Ruth 2:10), cared for the needy (Ruth 2:17-18), sought to marry a noble man (Ruth 3:7-10; 4:13), and was praised for her excellence and love for others (Ruth 3:11; 4:15).
According to Proverbs 31:10-31, the excellent wife is precious to her husband (Prov 31:10), and he trusts her (Prov 31:11). It is said, “She does him good and not evil all the days of her life” (Prov 31:12). She delights to work with her hands, knowing she’s providing for the good of her family (Prov 31:13, 15, 17-19, 27). She’s a smart shopper (Pro 31:14), and savvy business woman (Pro 31:16, 24), who is recognized for her work (Prov 31:31). She uses her time well (Pro 31:15, 27), is energetic and strong (Pro 31:17), cares for the poor and needy (Prov 31:20), provides for those in her household (Prov 31:21, 27), and does not neglect her own needs or appearance (Prov 31:22). As she is respected in the home, her husband is respected in the community (Pro 31:23), and both he and her children give praise for her dignity (Prov 31:28). She has an optimistic outlook on life, as “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future” (Prov 31:25). She is also noted for her wisdom, and “the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (Prov 31:26). She is the ideal wife, for though many women have done nobly, she excels them all (Prov 31:29). What makes this woman so excellent? What drives her to possess all the virtues of a godly woman, for which her husband praises her? Solomon tells us. It’s not her personal charm, which is deceitful; nor her physical beauty, which is fleeting (Pro 31:30a). Rather, it’s because she is “a woman who fears the LORD” (Prov 31:30b). This one “shall be praised” by all who know and appreciate her godliness. What is prioritized is the inner qualities of godliness and virtue that make for an enjoyable, stable, and lasting marriage. Other qualities and features of godly women are as follows:
Soteriology Lesson 46 - What Must I Believe to Be Saved - Part 2
Soteriology Lesson 45 - What Must I Believe to Be Saved?
Soteriology Lesson 44 - Unlimited Atonement
When a Christian Turns to a Sinful Lifestyle
Soteriology Lesson 43 - Total Depravity
Soteriology Lesson42 - The Meaning of Sin
Soteriology Lesson 41 - Biblical Meaning of Repentance
Soteriology Lesson 40 - Reconciliation with God & Redemption of Christ
Soteriology Lesson 39 - Penal Substitution & Propitiation for Sins
Soteriology Lesson 38 - The Love of God that Saves
Soteriology Lesson 37 - Justification Before God
Soteriology Lesson 36 - The Imputation of God's Righteousness
Soteriology Lesson 35 - The Holiness of God
Soteriology Lesson 34 - Guilt Before God
Soteriology Lesson 33 - God's Grace
Soteriology Lesson 32 - Forgiveness of Sins
Saved by Grace Alone, Through Faith Alone, in Christ Alone
Soteriology Lesson 31 - Assurance of Salvation
Soteriology Lesson 30 - Faith in the Bible
Soteriology Lesson 29 - Eternal Life & Expiation
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