When I was a younger Christian, I viewed Proverbs 31 as a book intended for married women. I was not really enticed reading it well because of this perspective in mind. Until such time that our Bible Study Group leader asked us to study this book. I was actually laughing and said to her, “It’s hard to be a Proverbs 31 woman. I cannot be like her.” Our leader replied, “Then start being one now.” In my mind, I would want to say, “but I am not yet married. How can I start being one?” With my shallow spiritual state, I did not take it by heart. Instead, I just shrugged my shoulder and mumbled “okay, you said it.”
Little did I know that years later, my perspective would change as I studied this short book of the Bible. Questions such as “what is this book really teaches about?” Are the lessons from here applicable to me, or just to married women?”
Of course, I would not want these to remain as questions. One day, I studied this book. And, it surprised me how these few verses convey some precious lessons and insights that we can probably relate to.
“Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.”
It’s interesting how a virtuous woman is compared to rubies. We know that rubies are one of the gems that are hard to find, and would cost greatly. It is the fact that they are hard to find is what make it so precious and special. And virtuous women are indeed hard to find nowadays. In this generation where we see young and old women being entangled with so many affairs of life, it would be a miracle when you hear a young woman who can exclaim, “I want to be a Proverbs 31 woman.”
If we look at what the remaining verses intend to say, we may understand that a virtuous woman possesses certain characteristics that we can relate to. Some of these are:
A virtuous woman is reputable.
Her husband trusts in her and she will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. Her children call her blessed and her husband praise her (vs. 11-12, 28 paraphrase).
As a woman, how do others see us in light with what we believe in? Having a good reputation as a Christian does not only apply to married women but to all who have professed that their lives are in Christ. Our good testimony would be such a great help in proclaiming the Gospel.
Do people trust us? Do the things that we do merit praises for the Lord?
A virtuous woman is diligent and cares for her family.
She rises while still dark and give meat to her household and a portion to her maidens (paraphrase) . . . (vs. 15-19)
I am not a morning person, I must say. I would always want to wake up late and have a cup of coffee for myself. I don’t normally care about others because I believed that myself is more than enough to care for. But this virtuous woman is different. She cares for others first before herself. Not only that she is concerned with her family, but even with others (her maidens). And I know that as a single woman, we can exercise this by being sensitive with the need of our family and fellow believers. There are so much things to do if we open our eyes to see the need of others more than our need. This would also push as to think of more purposeful activities in order to discipline ourselves. The Apostle Paul mentioned that he disciplined his body in order to have control over it and so he can be profitable to preach and minister to people.
When I started to align my activities to what the Lord has leading me to do, I asked Him to help me change my habits that impact my time. I mentioned earlier that I am not a morning person and love to wake up late. But when I am involved in few church ministries, I started to strive sleeping earlier than the usual. In this manner, I can plan my day ahead without being groggy and grumpy. Watching movies is one of the things that I need to give up in order to save time and do more worthwhile activities.
A virtuous woman is prudent and wise in words.
She is showing careful judgment in everything she does including commercial and business concern. (vs.15-19). She is wise and gentle in words (v.26). It is very important that we are mindful of our words as it can make or break others. Our words would need to build and edify more than it hurts.
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)
In conclusion, being a godly woman does not start when we are married. Instead, it starts when we heard the gospel, repented of our sin, and received Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and Lord. Being a godly woman is not something that we become by following rules or the do’s and don’ts of life. It is by first and foremost, being right with God and walking with Him closely. “It is not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord.” If we would want this Proverbs 31 woman becomes real in our lives, we must strive to mature and walk a holy life that is pleasing to Him.
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