Today we glean some more wisdom from the book of Proverbs. Here are a few thoughts from Proverbs 31 in the Message Bible.
Vs.4-7. And it is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine. Rulers should not crave liquor. For if they drink, they may forget their duties and be unable to give justice to those who are oppressed. Liquor is for the dying, and wine for those in deep depression. Let them drink to forget their poverty and remember their troubles no more.
Drinking too much alcohol can be a person's downfall. Either don’t drink at all or be sure to drink in moderation.
Vs.8-9 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those who are perishing. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.
Look out for the cause of the poor and needy. Stand for justice.
Vs.10-12 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is worth more than precious rubies. Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. She will not hinder him but help him all her life.
Oh, the blessing of a wonderful wife! How valuable is she! She can be trusted and she will enrich his life, helping him continually.
Vs.13-16 She finds wool and flax and busily spins it. She is like a merchant's ship; she brings her food from afar. She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day's work for her servant girls. She goes out to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard.
This woman is a wise home-builder.
Vs.17-19 She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She watches for bargains; her lights burn late into the night. Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber.
She is also a diligent and productive worker.
Vs.20 She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy.
She has a heart for the poor and needy.
Vs.25-27 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs with no fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and kindness is the rule when she gives instructions. She carefully watches all that goes on in her household and does not have to bear the consequences of laziness.
Her other character qualities include – strength, dignity, a sense of humour, wise words, kindness, responsibility and diligence.
Vs.28-29 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!"
Her children honour her as does her husband.
Vs.30-31 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
A woman who fears the Lord is the ultimate value – not charm or beauty. Value her and reward her.