Who Can Find?

A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.

Proverbs 31:10 (NIV)
 

When we look at the“Proverbs 31 woman” it’s hard not to read of her many capabilities, wipe our brow with a sigh, and raise one eyebrow with a little head bobble and think ... well good for her. Most women have one of two responses: “I could never live up to that” or “Man, I’d better get busy!”
 

What does it mean to have noble character? At some point all of us feel overwhelmed. Mothers care for the kids, buy the groceries, put everything away, do the laundry, and clean bathrooms, all while keeping everyone on schedule and maintaining a sunny disposition. Now, Proverbs tells us a woman should also buy land, make her own fabric and apparently never sleep. How can we possibly measure up?
 

While the world’s standards are often based on the how smooth our face and thighs remain, God looks at our heart. Our “noble character” is demonstrated by the things we do for others and ourselves. Kindness and honesty are some of the honorable qualities the Lord smiles on. Whether you work 40 hour weeks away from home or 24-7 at home, you are valued. Raising a family is a commission straight from God. Being a wife is, too.

 

I’ve known the Proverbs 31 woman: she was my aunt, grandmother, mother, friend and neighbor. Many women in my life have displayed her characteristics. This passage was not meant to discourage women. We all have attributes of the Proverbs 31 woman. We should remember our nobility comes from our Heavenly Father. As we grow closer to Him, our character will develop into one more like Christ.


 

Lord, be with me today as I seek Your Will. Help me to cultivate the characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman. Help me remember I am valued and important.