Thought for the Day

The remainder of Proverbs 31 records Bathsheba's instruction to Lemuel in choosing a wife. It is tragic that he failed to follow her advice. Solomon's wives did not know the Lord, and turned his heart from God to worship idols when he was old (1 Kings 11:1-13). Thus, a life that began magnificently ended miserably. The man who penned and preached a thousand wise things failed to practice the wisdom he taught. This chapter is not only advice for choosing a virtuous woman, but is also a spiritual type of the church (Christ's bride) who should demonstrate the qualities of the virtuous woman to the world.

Verse 10 - The first thing that is established is the price of a virtuous woman's worth. Like a costly jewel, she is not easy to come by. I believe every man needs God's help to find this kind of woman. We know that it is the Lord's will for a man to have a mate if he desires one, because after He had created Adam, He said: "...It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him" (Genesis 2:18). God's favor rests on the man who prays and waits for the right mate, so that they can serve God together. God is delighted to answer such a man's prayer and will bring the right woman into his life at the appointed time.

Verses 11-12 - A virtuous woman is a comfort to her husband; encouraging him and doing him good all the days of her life. She never leaves or divorces him. Her husband can trust her completely, because she loves him for who he is and not for what he can do for her. Since he does not have to impress her with his ability to make money, he is not tempted to take anything by dishonest gain. A woman who marries a man for his money or for the security he provides does not marry for the right motives. When two people enter into a marriage with the idea of loving and serving each other, their marriage will be blessed because it is not based on selfishness.

In Day 102 and Day 122, we looked at the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit in choosing a mate and not allowing ourselves to be led only by our emotions. Love is much more than simply "falling" for someone and experiencing a sense of euphoria. The Lord certainly gives us wonderful feelings for the person we will marry. However, allowing feelings alone to guide us in the choice of a mate, can be disastrous. This description of a virtuous woman is a guide for choosing a spouse. The Lord delights to bring the best life partner to those who ask Him to do so and wait with patience and trust for His choice. What a glorious plan God has had from the beginning for both men and women!