Day 360 Bible Reading

Proverbs 31: 10-20 (ESV)

“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens. She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle. She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.’

I love this passage from Proverbs 31. There is so much disinformation on how the Bible’s view of women is demeaning, but this passage from Proverbs 31 proves otherwise. This bible verse contains much praise of an “excellent wife” who is also a smart and responsible woman. The writer of Proverbs 31 lists all the things that a wife does and tells the reader what a great partner in life she will make to a man. This woman is also kind and strong to boot! Of course one has to find this kind of wife, but this Bible verse also provides a road map for a woman to remember to not be ashamed use all the gifts that God has given her to support her husband, her children, and her community.