What does the bible say?
A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
PROVERBS 31:10
This woman did not actually exist. It was a list of virtues that a mother sent to her son to look for in a wife… King Lemuel (was this King Solomon by another name?)
The number one quality. – Virtuous.
Of course, a virtuous, faithful woman of God. However, they were not looking for some shrinking violet to sit at home and compliment him. There were many other attributes which they were looking for.
The rest of her qualities are listed next to the relevant verses:
A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised
Verse 30
1. Submits to God
She opens her arms to the poor
Verse 20
2. In service to others
3. Charitable
4. Helps those in need
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for the task.
Verse 17
5. Hard worker
6. Strong mentally, physically and spiritually
7. Energetic
She gets up while it is still light
Verse 15
8. Early riser
9. Good time manager
She is clothed with strength and dignity
Verse 25
10. Full of endurance
Her husband has full confidence in her
Verse 11
11. Faithful
She watches over the affairs of her household
Verse 27
12. Homemaker
She considers a field and buys it
Verse 16
13. Wise with money
Out of her earnings she plants a vineyard
Verse 16
14. Discerning investor
She sees that her trading is profitable
Verse 18
15. Astute businesswoman
She provides food for her family
Verse 15
16. Provides well for her family
She makes linen garments
Verse24
17. Creates beauty
She is clothed in fine linen and purple
Verse 22
18. Dresses well in the finest clothes
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue
Verse 26
19. Does not gossip
20. Non-judgemental
21. Wise
This estimable woman of virtue and grace is what we should all aspire to. To make the most of the gifts and blessings God has given us. It is important to remember that we are all made in the image of God. We must treat ourselves with true worth and honour. We should not allow the nagging self-critic to take hold. Instead, we need to pray to the Holy Spirit to help us make the most of the talents God has put at our disposal. It is important to pray to our Father that he helps us see his will for our lives. Then, always do our best knowing that everything we do has meaning and is for the glory of God.