Proverbs 31
BSB1 These are the words of King Lemuel—the burden that his mother taught him: 2 What shall I say, O my son? What, O son of my womb? What, O son of my vows? 3 Do not spend your strength on women or your vigor on those who ruin kings. 4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to crave strong drink, 5 lest they drink and forget what is decreed, depriving all the oppressed of justice. 6 Give strong drink to one who is perishing, and wine to the bitter in soul. 7 Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more. 8 Open your mouth for those with no voice, for the cause of all the dispossessed. 9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the poor and needy. 10 A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life. 13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. 15 She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants. 16 She appraises a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She girds herself with strength and shows that her arms are strong. 18 She sees that her gain is good, and her lamp is not extinguished at night. 19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. 20 She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet. 22 She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is known at the city gate, where he sits among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchants. 25 Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the days to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband praises her as well: 29 “Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!" 30 Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her at the gates.
Study Notes — Proverbs 31
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Proverbs 31
- Themes from Proverbs 31
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Proverbs 31
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Proverbs 31 begins with a description of the virtuous woman, who is a rarity and a treasure (Proverbs 31:10). The chapter then lists her various qualities, including her trust in God, her kindness, her diligence, and her generosity (Proverbs 31:11-31). The virtuous woman is a homemaker, a businesswoman, and a community leader, who is respected by her family and neighbors (Proverbs 31:23, 28, 31). The chapter concludes by emphasizing that a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised (Proverbs 31:30).
Context for the Chapter
Proverbs 31 is the final chapter of the book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wisdom sayings and teachings. The chapter is part of a larger section that deals with the importance of wisdom and virtue in everyday life. The chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of fearing God and living according to His ways. In the context of the entire Bible, Proverbs 31 is a unique and valuable contribution to our understanding of God's character and His plan for humanity.
Heart Application
As we consider the virtues of the woman in Proverbs 31, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God and living according to His ways. We are called to fear the Lord, to be diligent and hardworking, and to be kind and generous to those around us. By applying these principles to our own lives, we can become more like the virtuous woman, and we can experience the blessing and respect that come from living a life of integrity and character.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Proverbs 31 describes a woman who is kind, hardworking, and trustworthy. She is a good wife, mother, and neighbor, and she is respected by her community. The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing God and living according to His ways, and it reminds us that a woman who trusts in God is a treasure beyond measure (Proverbs 31:10, 30).
Voices from the Church
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and it is the foundation of all true virtue and character.”
— John Calvin
“The virtuous woman is a rare and precious jewel, and she is worth far more than all the riches of the world.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:1-9) — The chapter begins by introducing the virtuous woman, who is a rare and precious find. She is described as a woman of noble character, who is trustworthy and kind.
- The Virtues of the Woman (Proverbs 31:10-27) — The chapter then lists the various virtues of the woman, including her trust in God, her diligence, and her generosity.
- The Woman's Role in the Home (Proverbs 31:13-22) — The chapter describes the woman's role in the home, which includes managing the household, caring for her family, and being a good neighbor.
- The Woman's Reputation (Proverbs 31:23-31) — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the woman's good reputation, which is based on her character and her actions.
- Conclusion (Proverbs 31:30-31) — The chapter ends by emphasizing the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of the virtuous woman's character.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Fearing God
- Proverbs 31 emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. This fear is not a cringing or servile fear, but a reverence and respect for God's power and majesty.
- The Value of Hard Work
- The chapter highlights the value of hard work and diligence, which is evident in the woman's various activities and responsibilities. Her industry and productivity are a testament to her character and integrity.
- The Role of Women in the Church
- The chapter describes the woman's role in the home and in the community, which includes managing the household, caring for her family, and being a good neighbor. Her responsibilities are varied and demanding, but she fulfills them with grace and excellence.
- The Importance of Character
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of character, which is the foundation of all true virtue and reputation. The woman's good character is evident in her actions and decisions, and it is the basis of her reputation and influence.
Lessons from Proverbs 31
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. We can learn from the woman's example and prioritize our trust in God in our own lives.
- The Value of Hard Work and Diligence — The chapter highlights the value of hard work and diligence, which is evident in the woman's various activities and responsibilities. We can learn from her example and prioritize our own work and responsibilities.
- The Role of Women in the Home and Community — The chapter describes the woman's role in the home and in the community, which includes managing the household, caring for her family, and being a good neighbor. We can learn from her example and prioritize our own responsibilities and relationships.
- The Importance of Character and Reputation — The chapter emphasizes the importance of character and reputation, which is the foundation of all true influence and respect. We can learn from the woman's example and prioritize our own character and reputation.
- The Importance of Fearing the Lord — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. We can learn from the woman's example and prioritize our own fear of the Lord.
Themes from Proverbs 31
- The Virtuous Woman — The chapter describes the virtuous woman, who is a rare and precious find. She is a woman of noble character, who is trustworthy and kind.
- The Importance of Fearing God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing God, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. This fear is not a cringing or servile fear, but a reverence and respect for God's power and majesty.
- The Value of Hard Work and Diligence — The chapter highlights the value of hard work and diligence, which is evident in the woman's various activities and responsibilities. Her industry and productivity are a testament to her character and integrity.
- The Role of Women in the Home and Community — The chapter describes the woman's role in the home and in the community, which includes managing the household, caring for her family, and being a good neighbor. Her responsibilities are varied and demanding, but she fulfills them with grace and excellence.
- The Importance of Character and Reputation — The chapter emphasizes the importance of character and reputation, which is the foundation of all true influence and respect. The woman's good character is evident in her actions and decisions, and it is the basis of her reputation and influence.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that I can demonstrate my trust in God, like the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31?
- How can I prioritize my responsibilities and manage my time effectively, like the woman in Proverbs 31?
- What are some ways that I can show kindness and generosity to those around me, like the woman in Proverbs 31?
- How can I cultivate a reputation for integrity and character, like the woman in Proverbs 31?
- What are some ways that I can fear the Lord and live according to His ways, like the woman in Proverbs 31?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:1-9)
| Proverbs 31:1 | The chapter begins by introducing the virtuous woman, who is a rare and precious find. She is described as a woman of noble character, who is trustworthy and kind. |
| Proverbs 31:2 | The king's mother advises him to find a woman who is virtuous and noble in character, rather than one who is beautiful or wealthy. |
2. The Virtues of the Woman (Proverbs 31:10-27)
| Proverbs 31:10 | The chapter then lists the various virtues of the woman, including her trust in God, her diligence, and her generosity. |
| Proverbs 31:13 | The woman is described as a hard worker, who is skilled in various tasks and responsibilities. She is a homemaker, a businesswoman, and a community leader. |
3. The Woman's Role in the Home (Proverbs 31:13-22)
| Proverbs 31:13 | The woman is described as a skilled homemaker, who is able to manage the household and care for her family. |
| Proverbs 31:15 | The woman is also described as a businesswoman, who is able to buy and sell goods, and to manage her own finances. |
4. The Woman's Reputation (Proverbs 31:23-31)
| Proverbs 31:23 | The woman's husband is respected in the community, and he praises her for her virtue and character. |
| Proverbs 31:28 | The woman's children also praise her, and they rise up to call her blessed. |
5. Conclusion (Proverbs 31:30-31)
| Proverbs 31:30 | The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. |
| Proverbs 31:31 | The woman who fears the Lord is to be praised, and her works will be rewarded in the end. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Proverbs 31?
The main theme of Proverbs 31 is the description of the virtuous woman, who is a rare and precious find. She is a woman of noble character, who is trustworthy and kind (Proverbs 31:10).
What are some of the virtues of the woman in Proverbs 31?
The woman in Proverbs 31 is described as trustworthy, kind, diligent, and generous. She is a hard worker, who is skilled in various tasks and responsibilities (Proverbs 31:13-27).
What is the role of the woman in the home, according to Proverbs 31?
The woman in Proverbs 31 is described as a skilled homemaker, who is able to manage the household and care for her family. She is also a businesswoman, who is able to buy and sell goods, and to manage her own finances (Proverbs 31:13-22).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 31:10 → 1 Peter 3:1-6 | The virtuous woman in Proverbs 31 is similar to the woman described in 1 Peter 3:1-6, who is submissive to her husband and trusting in God. |
| 2 | Proverbs 31:13 → Titus 2:3-5 | The woman in Proverbs 31 is also similar to the woman described in Titus 2:3-5, who is a homemaker and a teacher of good things. |
| 3 | Proverbs 31:15 → Luke 10:38-42 | The woman in Proverbs 31 is similar to Martha in Luke 10:38-42, who is a hard worker and a hospitable hostess. |
| 4 | Proverbs 31:23 → Ephesians 5:22-24 | The husband's praise of his wife in Proverbs 31:23 is similar to the husband's love for his wife in Ephesians 5:22-24, which is a picture of Christ's love for the church. |
| 5 | Proverbs 31:28 → Psalm 128:1-6 | The children's praise of their mother in Proverbs 31:28 is similar to the blessing of the children in Psalm 128:1-6, who are a heritage from the Lord. |
| 6 | Proverbs 31:30 → Psalm 34:9 | The fear of the Lord in Proverbs 31:30 is similar to the fear of the Lord in Psalm 34:9, which is the beginning of wisdom. |
| 7 | Proverbs 31:31 → Galatians 6:9 | The reward of the woman's works in Proverbs 31:31 is similar to the reward of good works in Galatians 6:9, which is a harvest of blessing. |
| 8 | Proverbs 31:1 → Ruth 3:11 | The virtuous woman in Proverbs 31 is similar to Ruth, who is a woman of noble character and a worthy wife for Boaz. |
| 9 | Proverbs 31:13 → Proverbs 22:6 | The woman's diligence and skill in Proverbs 31:13 is similar to the teaching in Proverbs 22:6, which emphasizes the importance of training and discipline. |
| 10 | Proverbs 31:30 → Matthew 5:3 | The fear of the Lord in Proverbs 31:30 is similar to the poverty of spirit in Matthew 5:3, which is the foundation of true blessedness. |
Sermons on Proverbs 31
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Rope Wanted by William Booth | In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of Mary, a young woman who bravely risked her life to save others during a devastating tidal wave. Despite the warnings of her comrades |
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A Bride Worthy of Christ’s Attention by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Proverbs 31 and discusses the qualities of a bride worthy of Christ's attention. The preacher emphasizes the importance of fallen people and |
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A Young Man's Attitude Towards Women by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the loss of innocence and beauty in our culture. He laments how the simple act of touching hands can no longer evoke a sense of awe and excite |
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Husbands Love Your Wifes! by Keith Daniel | Keith Daniel emphasizes the biblical command for husbands to love their wives, drawing from Matthew 19:5 and Ephesians 5:25. He highlights the importance of 'cleaving' to one's spo |
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1st Epistle of Peter by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude for being invited to speak and for the opportunity to bring her family with her. She acknowledges the daily routine and challenges t |
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Pt 7 the Pearl of Great Price by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of being hurt by someone's negative comment about the church attendance. He contrasts the reactions of two individuals, one |
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Good News to the Poor by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing Jesus' proclamation of preaching good news to the poor. He highlights the current need for this message, especially in times of nat |
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Call to Discipleship by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon emphasizes the importance of reaching out to children in need through the Bridge of Hope program by Gospel for Asia. It highlights the impact of investing in children's |
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Marriage in the Scriptures by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher expresses his astonishment at how the messages that were solely based on the Scriptures have spread worldwide. He sought God's guidance to deliver a me |
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A Call to Modesty (Compilation) by Compilations | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a holy and modest life. He urges the congregation to examine their lives and repent of any secret sins or hidden wr |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Proverbs 31
Matthew Henry's commentary on Proverbs 31 emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of all true virtue and character. He notes that the virtuous woman is a rare and precious find, and that she is a woman of noble character, who is trustworthy and kind. Henry also emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence, which is evident in the woman's various activities and responsibilities. He notes that the woman's husband and children praise her, and that she is a blessing to her community. Henry concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom and the foundation of all true virtue and character (Proverbs 31:30). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Fearing the Lord
The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord, which is the foundation of the virtuous woman's character. This fear is not a cringing or servile fear, but a reverence and respect for God's power and majesty.
The Value of Hard Work
The chapter highlights the value of hard work and diligence, which is evident in the woman's various activities and responsibilities. Her industry and productivity are a testament to her character and integrity.
The Role of the Woman in the Home
The chapter describes the woman's role in the home, which includes managing the household, caring for her family, and being a good neighbor. Her responsibilities are varied and demanding, but she fulfills them with grace and excellence.