The Principles of Proverbs 31 : This Woman...
A capable, intelligent and virtuous woman is of great value to herself, her husband and her children. She is also of immeasurable worth to society and ultimately to God, Himself. Refer to verse 10.
Fosters Healthy Relationships
Because she is trustworthy, reliable and faithful... a comforter and an encourager... her relationships with her husband, children and others are healthy. In other words, because she sows virtue, she reaps virtue. Refer to verses 11-12 and 28-29
Her children and husband openly praise her because they have benefited from her nurturing. Her husband honors her above all other accomplished women. Refer to verses 28-29
Manages Her Household Well
She attentively coordinates and manages the runnings of her household, providing whatever is needed. Today, roles vary from family to family, depending upon individual strengths and weaknesses. But whatever her roles and responsibilities in her home, this competent woman attends to them with consistently. Refer to verses 13-15 and 27
Her Self Esteem Allows Her the Confidence to be a Strategist & Risk-Taker
She counts the cost before venturing out. And when she has completed her due diligence, she is not timid about taking the risk. Following up, she constantly assesses the status of her efforts or ventures, confirming they are profitable. She thinks of herself highly...not proud, but secure in who she is and what she does. Refer to verses 16 and 18
She chooses to be resilient and strong (mentally and physically) in the face of uncertainty. And she consciously displays an almost royal dignity. Refer to verses 17 and 25
She doesn't have an attitude of laziness for she knows her work will bear fruit. Refer to verses 19 and 27
She generously shares her time, talents and money with those who are in need of them. She lends an affectionate ear to those who need comforting. Refer to verse 20
She is prepared for whatever may come, as is her household. Her confident outlook lies in the Lord as well as in her pre-planning.
Refer to verse 21
She has Godly pride in her appearance, always aware of who she represents. Let's face it. Attractiveness causes others to take notice of our lives and facilitates interaction for ministry and mentoring. When we make ourselves approachable, others will do so ...and then we can readily share Christ.
Refer to verse 22
Has an Entrepreneurial Spirit, or Attitude
She offers her varied skills to the marketplace to gain profit for self sufficiency. Refer to verse 24
Is Confident and Optimistic
She expresses her optimism and confidence about the future, knowing that she and her family are prepared for it. Refer to verse 25
Purposely Speaks Wisely and Kindly
She skillfully considers how best to express herself, doing so with kindness and Godly wisdom. Will her words edify the hearers or tear them down? Refer to verse 26
Above all else, this woman of God makes communing with her Lord a priority. Her daily, practical devotion to Him is sincere and constant. She practices His presence. Therefore her real beauty is not fleeting, because it is more than skin deep. Her grace and charm are not deceptive because she has integrity and honor. This characteristic alone, is what really makes her "more precious than rubies". Refer to verse 30
Will be Openly Rewarded! Hallelujah!
She will be materially and spiritually rewarded for her diligence and her reputation will go before her in all that she does! Refer to verse 31
