Starting in vs 10 she’s telling him what to look for in a wife, one who is trustworthy and industrious (shops carefully). She is aware of her household needs and can see what work needs to be done. The fact that her children respect her (vs 28) says that she uses kindness and tactfulness in all her doings, (vs26). It appears that she balances all this productivity with having a heart for the poor (vs20) and a calmness concerning the future (vs25).

She cautions him not to be attracted to charm and beauty (as comes naturally to most men) but to look for a woman who fears the Lord (vs 30).

As men we often avoid this chapter either considering that it is for women or too fearful to discuss it with our wives lest we say the wrong thing and offend them. But, as stated before these are teachings from a mother to her son. Before verses 12-22 in verse 11 the heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. In our culture we are taught that trust is built not given, but here it comes first. Are we as men building confidence in our wives? Do we help them flourish in their God given gifts? In doing so we are not only trusting them, but also the Holy Spirit to work through them. Verse 23 states that her husband is known in the gates or respected. That respect is then transferred to her in the community. She is viewed as possessing strength and honor. Is our integrity worthy of respect in our community? Finally praise, verse 28, do we praise her in the right things or just when she makes us look good in the eyes of others? Correctly given praise will cause her to be fruitful in this earth and in Gods eyes.

 

God’s blessings on your day!