Proverbs 31: Impossible Standard or Inspiring Poem?From series Significant Biblical Women.
Superwoman, or Godly model?
Proverbs 31 is an acrostic poem and should be treated as such, according to my friend Bryony Taylor. It is all about wisdom, which is explained by ascribing values to a person, known as personified wisdom. This surely takes the fear out of the text? It is no longer an impossible standard to reach, but something far more accessible. I think verses eight and nine regarding speaking up for the destitute are often overlooked; these just as important values to hold as those in the subsequent verses. After reading the passage through, my first thoughts were, 'When does this woman actually sleep?!'
Some comparisons can be made with the description of the woman here and with Lydia’s character in Acts 16: both are merchants and business women, successful in their own right; both have responsibility for at least part of a household, and are wise, Godly, God-fearing and respected. In my discussion with Bryony we agreed that there are values in Proverbs 31 both sexes can emulate.
What can we learn from her practically?
This woman displays several outward values: firstly, she is disciplined and organised by getting up early to make food for the female servants (v.15). This also shows she is compassionate and kind. There is further proof of this in her attitude towards and provision for the poor, and in making sure everyone is warmly clothed in winter (vv.20&21). She uses her gifts to the best of her ability, making clothing, sewing and making coverings for her bed, working ‘vigorously’ (vv.17, 19, 24). She exercises discretion and good stewardship in spending and investing (vv. 16&18). Likewise, the Lord has given each one of us gifts and a purpose (Ephesians 2:10).
Another salient point is that she does not seem to need her husband's approval to do any of this; he is simply described as being at the gate with the other elders (v.23). This implies she is his equal, he has his job, she has hers; they have clearly defined roles, and her husband respects her. He cherishes her for all she does, more than that, he 'praises her' (vv.28-29).
What inward values does she cultivate?
If this were not enough, there are also the woman’s inward values. Whatever our gifts are, whether we can work with our hands or not, or whether we live alone with no others to provide for, we can consider this woman’s inward values. She is described in the text as strong, fearless and wise (vv.25-27). Most important of all is verse 30, which shows her priorities are right: ‘Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.’
Who is your example?
If there is a still a temptation to compare ourselves unfavourably with the woman described in the text, we have no need to make comparisons; we are already of infinite value to God (see Psalm 139). If we belong to Jesus we are 'in him’ and therefore take on his beauty and righteous, according to Rhonda Watson in Remember. We're more than a match for the Proverbs 31 woman because of who we are in Christ: ‘We are more than conquerors!’ (Romans 8:37).
Finally, lest we forget, we have an example even greater than the Proverbs 31 woman. Who was wiser, more disciplined, God-fearing and compassionate than Jesus? He should be our example.
References
Bryony Taylor’s sermon on Proverbs 31 "A Woman Of Valour, Who Can Find?” can be accessed at www.bryonytaylor.com
Facebook conversation with Bryony Taylor 14/01/13
Watson, Rhonda (2011) Remember … the things that matter when hope is hard to find Nottingham: Intervarsity Press (IVP)
Further reading and browsing
Bayliss, Amy (2012) Pursuit of Proverbs 31 My Southern Media; Proverbs 31 Ministries; Held Evans, Rachael (2012) A year of Biblical Womanhood Tennesee: Thomas Nelson
Related Content
Homecoming Blessings
Graham Daniels Sermons
Taste and See That the Lord Is Good
Paul Kassel Sermons