Proverbs Chapter 31

Welcome back to Riddles of the Wise and to the final chapter of Proverbs (Chapter 31)!  I know that Shawn (and all of the staff at Red Rocks) have had such blast with this devotional. Hopefully, you feel renewed, focused, and armed with wisdom for the days to come.

If you’ve been around church for any amount of time, you’ve probably heard a bit about “Proverbs 31”. Now, I know the majority of this chapter is geared toward us ladies, but guys, hang in there. I believe there are nuggets here for you too.

Honestly, when I first read Proverbs 31, I was a little annoyed. I mean, who is this woman? She does everything. She buys land. She sells land. Her husband loves her, and they have a wonderful relationship. She helps the poor. She’s up before dawn. She cooks for her family. She cleans. She sews clothing. Everybody loves her. Good grief, I got exhausted just reading about her.

But, today I picked up Proverbs 31, reread it, and I was inspired.

I’ve always been driven. I don’t know about you, but deep down I kind of want to have and do it all. I have a great husband. I have a house. Dogs. But, I also want a family. I’m a pastor, and I want to continue to grow in my preaching. I want to write more. I want to travel. I want to step out in faith. I want my life to be impactful. I want to see the gospel spread. I want to work out more. I want to get out and camp more this summer. I want to start a business with my husband. I want to be able to make a great home. I want to impress people with my awesome cooking skills I learned on Master Chef. I want it all. (Maybe you can relate?)

But then I get nervous because I feel like maybe having it all isn’t possible. Maybe it’s too much. Maybe I’m not enough. And then Proverbs 31:30 says, “…but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

See, this is the crux of this chapter. It’s saying that this type of woman (one who fears God) will live a life that is praiseworthy. When God is first, and He is the one we fear, revere, and build our life around, that’s when a praiseworthy life is possible. Therefore, in Christ (and only in) Christ, you can have and do it all.

The Proverbs 31 woman lives life to the max. She is a perfect blend of humility and enterprise. Of charity and prudence. Of nurturing and calling.  That type of life requires vision and strength that could only come from God.

So, we finish this series the way we began it: fearing the Lord (humble reverence and submission) is the beginning of wisdom, and the recipe for a praiseworthy life.

May you be reminded that when you live in Christ, you can live a life of vibrancy, meaning, and purpose. When you revere and submit to God, you can be driven, merciful, loving, loyal, profitable, and kind. May you continue to grow in wisdom, and start your days the way Proverbs ends it: fearing and being found in God.

Blessings, and have a great day,

Jessie