Proverbs 31 Woman

As I sit on my bed this Sabbath evening, it's 1 in the morning, and I desire to be a better woman. I have set aside my text books and picked up my manual for life. Reading scripture is a love, a comfort, and a challenge. Tonight, Proverbs 31 is a challenge spoken to my heart...

"A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her." (10-11a)

I admit that the desire of my heart at this point in my life is to find a help-mate to walk alongside me and share life with me. But I question myself...am I ready? Will I be a wife of noble character? Will my husband have the ultimate confidence in who I am and what I do, and will he look upon me as if I am a rare jewel?

"She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy." (20)

Oh, Father, how I pray that I will be a woman who generously gives to all. I like to think I am, but I am human and can be as selfish as anyone. I want my heart to be in a constant state of giving and sacrificing for those in need.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity;

she can laugh at the days to come." (25)

This brought to mind - what do I clothe myself with? Intelligence? Friendship? Success? Meaningful qualities or merely meaningless characteristics that have no merit? I want strength to do the right thing. I desire dignity to walk with my head held high as I partake in my Provider's pure love. I pray a joyful laugh shall stay on my tongue to get me through the hard days.

"She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue." (26)

I believe that Christ has given me a great deal wisdom for my years. Many have come to me with heavy hearts, questions about life, and requests for instruction. I pray my door will always be open to seeking hearts. Let God speak His words through me.

"Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
'Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all'." (28-29)

The first person that comes to mind is my own dear mother, for she is the exact woman I strive to be. She, in my eyes, lives out Proverbs 31. She is good, pure, hard-working, strong, beautiful, and Godly. Each of my siblings love my mother and praise her for all she is. My father still looks at her like a love-struck teenager and views her high above any other woman. My mother is my hero and I look up to her in every way.

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be
praised." (30)

Finally, I am reminded not to be shallow and concerned with my appearance. I know my husband will love me for everything I am AND despite all that I am lacking. I do not need the compliments of many men. I will let the love of Jesus Christ shine through my eyes and smile and know that when my man is attracted to me, it will be for something deeper.