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:
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King David: The Good and the Bad
The Spiritual Life - Part 4 - Steps to Spiritual Maturity
A Trustworthy Statement - 2 Timothy 2:11-13
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 23 - Improving Culture - A NT Example
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 22 - Improving Culture - An OT Example
The Spiritual Life - Part 3 - The Meaning of Spirituality
The Spiritual Life - Part 2 - The Holy Spirit’s Ministry in the Old Testament and New Testament
The Spiritual Life - Part 1 - Spiritual Disciplines
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 21 - Our Christian Armor
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 20 - Holy Angels and How they Influence Mankind
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 19 - God Judges the Nations of the World
Tares Among the Wheat - Part 18 - God’s Sovereignty and Providence
Deuteronomy 30:1-20 - Moses Anticipates Israel’s Failure and Encourages them to Obey the Lord
Deuteronomy 29:16-29 - God’s Anger Against Israel if they Disobey
Deuteronomy 29:1-15 - God’s Blessings & Covenant Renewal
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Divine Discipline for the Christian
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