top of page

Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 offers a two-part message. The first part (verses 1-9) contains advice from King Lemuel's mother, urging him to rule with justice, avoid excess, and defend the rights of the poor and needy. The second part (verses 10-31) describes the qualities of a virtuous woman, offering a model of wisdom, diligence, and strength. This chapter highlights how leadership and domestic virtues align with wisdom.

Proverbs 31:1-10 (NKJV)
1 The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him:
2 What, my son? And what, son of my womb? And what, son of my vows?
3 Do not give your strength to women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings.
4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink;
5 Lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.
6 Give strong drink to him who is perishing, and wine to those who are bitter of heart.
7 Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
8 Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die.
9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

King Lemuel recounts the advice of his mother, who urges him to avoid indulging in destructive behaviors, especially when it comes to women and alcohol. She warns that such excesses lead to poor judgment and injustice. Instead, a king should use his voice to defend those who cannot speak for themselves and judge righteously, especially protecting the poor and needy.

Proverbs 31:10-12 (NKJV)
10 Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.

This passage describes the value and character of a virtuous woman, portraying her as priceless and trustworthy. She is more precious than jewels, emphasizing her rarity and worth beyond material wealth. Her husband safely trusts in her, knowing she will enrich his life and bring him no harm. Her dedication and integrity allow him to rely on her completely, and she consistently does good for him throughout their lives. This passage highlights the strength, loyalty, and wisdom of a godly woman whose actions contribute positively and faithfully to her family and relationships.

Proverbs 31:13-15 (NKJV)
13 She seeks wool and flax, and willingly works with her hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar.
15 She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household, and a portion for her maidservants.

The virtuous woman is industrious and diligent. She seeks materials for her work, reflecting her initiative and creativity. Like merchant ships that bring goods from afar, she ensures her household is provided for with care and forethought. Rising early, she prepares food for her family and servants, demonstrating her dedication to their well-being and her commitment to managing her household effectively.

Proverbs 31:16-18 (NKJV)
16 She considers a field and buys it; from her profits she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is good, and her lamp does not go out by night.

This woman is not only wise but also entrepreneurial. She carefully evaluates a field before purchasing it and uses the profit to invest in a vineyard, reflecting her resourcefulness. Her strength and energy are evident as she diligently works with her hands and remains attentive to her responsibilities, even working into the night. Her business acumen and hard work lead to success.

Proverbs 31:19-21 (NKJV)
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hand holds the spindle.
20 She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household is clothed with scarlet.

Her skill in spinning wool into yarn shows her hands-on involvement in providing for her household. However, her care extends beyond her own family as she generously gives to the poor and needy. She prepares ahead, ensuring her household is well-protected against harsh conditions, symbolized by the scarlet garments, which indicate warmth and provision.

Proverbs 31:22-24 (NKJV)
22 She makes tapestry for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies sashes for the merchants.

The virtuous woman also takes pride in her personal appearance, making beautiful tapestry and wearing fine clothes. Her diligent work and virtuous character enhance her husband's reputation, elevating him among the leaders of the community. She is also a successful businesswoman, creating and selling garments, thus contributing to the household's prosperity.

Proverbs 31:25-27 (NKJV)
25 Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Strength and honor characterize this woman, and because of her diligent and wise life, she looks forward to the future with joy. Her speech reflects her wisdom and kindness, and she remains constantly aware of her household's needs, ensuring everything runs smoothly. She is never idle, always actively contributing to the welfare of her family and community.

Proverbs 31:28-31 (NKJV)
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.

This virtuous woman is appreciated and honored by her family. Her children recognize her value, and her husband speaks highly of her, acknowledging that while many women do well, she surpasses them all. Ultimately, her true worth comes from her fear of the Lord, which endures beyond charm or beauty. Her hard work and virtuous life are her lasting legacy, bringing her praise even in public spaces.

bottom of page