Her Children Call Her Blessed
October 10, 2022
Commentary
The book of Proverbs begins with the command to fear the Lord (Prov. 1:7) and ends with the picture of a woman who fulfills this command. The foot notes in the Life Application Bible describes the woman in this chapter as follows:
“She has outstanding abilities. Her family’s social position is high. In fact, she may not be one woman at all – she may be a composite portrait of ideal womanhood. Do not see her as a model to imitate in every detail; your days may not be long enough to do everything she does!.”
Again we find the production of clothing for her family and to sell mentioned (v. 24). The girdles mentioned were sashes or belts that she sold to the merchants. She is obviously no weakling as strength and dignity are a part of her character (v. 25). She can rejoice as she faces the future with confidence. She is praised for her wisdom and faithful instruction which probably refers to her teaching her children and her servant girls (v. 26). She is a very busy lady and even though she is involved in business she makes her home her priority and takes good care of her family (v. 27).
The children of this “virtuous lady” call her “blessed” and her husband praises her by telling others she is the greatest of the noble women (v. 28). The writer says many women have done well but this Proverbs 31 women excellest them all (v. 29). Her secret is her godly character. Her beauty on the outside is because of the godly characteristics she has on the inside (v. 30). A person may be physically charming and beautiful on the outside but it will not last unless this person is godly on the inside. According to Jewish history a woman was not normally honored at the gate but because she was such an unusual woman she was given special recognition (v. 31).
Application
In the face of the adulterous temptations given throughout Proverbs it is quite fitting that this book concludes with the virtues of a godly women: which includes hard work, care for others, wise counsel and godly fear. Lord, help me to have godly characteristics that match these characteristics.
Proverbs 31:24– 31 (NET)
24 She made linen garments then sold them, and traded belts to the merchants;
25 her clothing was strong and splendid; and she laughed at the time to come.
26 She has opened her mouth with wisdom, with loving instruction on her tongue.
27 Watching over the ways of her household, she would not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children have risen and called her blessed; her husband also has praised her:
29 “Many daughters have done valiantly, but you have surpassed them all!”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is fleeting. A woman who fears the Lord —she makes herself praiseworthy.
31 Give her credit for what she has accomplished, and let her works praise her in the city gates.