A fresh look... (part 2)

We are exploring this concept of the Proverbs 31 woman, or the “Description of a Worthy Woman” as the NASB puts it.  She is typically taught as the standard we women are to live up to, but often comes across as an unattainable and unrealistic goal of perfection. 

However, maybe we’ve had the wrong perspective of this woman. Last time, I shared my thoughts on Prov. 31:10-15.  Let’s continue today with verses 16-24. Again, the NASB translation is in standard print and my personal paraphrases are in italics.

16 She considers a field and buys it; From her earnings she plants a vineyard.

           She is wise with her money and invests it well.

17 She girds herself with strength And makes her arms strong.

           She takes care of herself and her body.  She sees the value of self care.

18 She senses that her gain is good; Her lamp does not go out at night.

           She finds satisfaction in her accomplishments. She invests time in important things (possibly referring to the self-care mentioned in the previous verse). 

19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hands grasp the spindle.

           She focuses on the things she is good/skilled at doing. 

20 She extends her hand to the poor, And she stretches out her hands to the needy.

           She is generous and compassionate toward those in need.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

           She prepares for the future.  She’s not blind to the inevitable (winter will come), but also doesn’t fear it.  She is confident and secure and helps others be the same. 

22 She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple.

           She not only takes care of her own needs, but she treats herself to good quality because she values her own identity as “royalty.” 

23 Her husband is known in the gates, When he sits among the elders of the land.

           She sees the good character of others.  She identified a good husband and she submits to his leadership.  She allows him to thrive in his areas of strength.

24 She makes linen garments and sells them, And supplies belts to the tradesmen.

           She capitalizes on her own strengths and uses them to provide for her family and benefit others.

In these verses I see that a “worthy woman” knows how to set healthy and appropriate priorities and boundaries.  She does not give until she has nothing left (an extreme expectation I often see encouraged by the church, because we’re “supposed to be self-sacrificing servants and care-takers”).  Instead, this woman has found the right balance because she knows how to take care of herself without guilt and is operating out of a healthy place when she gives to others.  What a beautiful picture!