Wifey for Lifey Намуна

The Virtuous Woman

How do you feel after reading about the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31? I believe there are two type of women. The first is the one who reads it confidently, knowing that she will become like that woman very soon. Then, there is the woman who is very impressed with the virtuous woman, but frustrated at the thought of trying to become like her. 

The proverb about the noble wife begins with, “Who can find a wife of noble character? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will not lack anything good.” I am the type who loved reading Proverbs 31:10–31 dreaming of becoming like that noble woman. Then I got married and realized it was never going to happen. 

Although I may be able to fulfill some of her qualities, planting a vineyard, rising while it is night, and making bed coverings and linens sounds unrealistic and unachievable! I mean, thankfully we now have Target for linens and bedding. I can barely keep my house plant alive; how would I ever plant a vineyard? But as we continue to read this passage, towards the end it says, “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised.” 

What if we begin there? What if instead of trying to achieve what appears unachievable, we simply begin with fearing the Lord? Your greatest commandment is not about loving your husband with your whole life and making sure he has daily meals and a clean house. Your greatest command is to love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul. The Lord wants you to stay faithful to Him, even after getting married. Our virtues grow naturally out of our dependence on Christ. When pursuing a life in Christ, the virtues we obtain are a part of Him in us. 

Do not be discouraged by this virtuous woman. This passage gives a good list we can use in our wifely role, but begin by giving complete reverence and honor to God. He is the one that makes us trustworthy, strong, and capable women, able to accomplish all the things we do for our husband and children. We will forever feel overwhelmed with the model of the wife of noble character if we rely only on our own strength. Submit yourself to God. Wear Him as your fine jewels and garments (1 Peter 3:3–4). We simply cannot succeed without Him, without God’s goodness shining in us. 

“Many women have done noble deeds, but you surpass them all!”