Any time we refer to Proverbs 31:10-31, we assume that the woman described had a great husband by her side. But what if he really wasn't so virtuous?
Of course he could have been Mr. Money Bags, providing at will.
But what if he wasn't a provider in his home?...
And yet, she worked willingly with her hands and provided (vs. 13-15)
And, you know, he may have been an ample leader spiritually, financially and in every way.
But what if he wasn't a leader in her home...
Even then, she made wise decisions, invested and made a profit (vs 16)
He could have been rather strong with his toned abs, rippling muscles and ever-willingness to help.
But what if he simply appeared to be lazy...
Still she girded up her loins with strength and strengthened her arms. (vs 17)
On the same note, he could have been a hard worker all the time.
But what if it seemed like he slept all day, and played all night?...
Yet she worked hard all day AND her candle stayed lit by night (vs 18-19)
He could have lavished her with all that she could ever want.
But what if he didn't buy her expensive clothes and pay for the latest fashions?
Well, she laid her hands to the spindle and made her own clothes, lavishing herself with luxury (vs 21- 22)
He could have been an expert in tuning in to her feelings; being attentive to her longings
But then again, he could have never been there to hearken to her needs.
What if he never talked to her or made her feel loved?
What if he were a mean man, even abusive to some extent?
Yet still, instead of using biting and hurtful words, she opened her mouth with wisdom and in her tongue was the law of kindness. (vs 26)
He could have been the Ever-Present Man.
But he also could have been emotionally and physically absent from his family...
Yet she looked well to the ways of her household. (vs 27)
And even if he spent his waking moments doing aimless things,
She did not eat the bread of idleness (vs 27)
What if there were no virtuous man? Then the woman described in this passage was virtuous indeed! Despite the circumstances, she played her role excellently and her children and husband called her blessed and praised her. If this truly were the case, then her description as being clothed with strength and honor has greater meaning (vs 25)!
She is described as a woman who fears the Lord. Could it be that since she embarked upon her role so excellently that it was indicative of a true fear of God?
What if there were no virtuous man? Then wouldn't it be amazing to have so graciously have handled her circumstances and endured to reap the rewards at the end.
Even if her husband wasn't really that virtuous man, you won't ever know. She probably didn't complain to a bunch of her girlfriends or embarrass him in public. Rather, her husband was revered and honored; he was known in the gates because of her stellar reputation (vs 23). That's why we really don't know if there were actually a virtuous man!
So was there a virtuous man?
We will never know.
Lyrics by tia 2012
Original image courtesy of Tunji Sarumi
Original image courtesy of Tunji Sarumi
The Bible does speak of a virtuous man. Unfortunately, it's just not taught as often.
ReplyDeleteHe can appreciate constructive criticism.
Proverbs 9:8
Instruction makes him wiser, and he increases his learning. Proverbs 9:9
He listens to counsel. Proverbs 12:15
He has wise friends and acquittances.
Proverbs 13:20
He leaves an inheritance to his children's children. Proverbs 13:22
He considers his steps. Proverbs 14:15
He is cautious and turns away from evil.
Proverbs 14:16
He walks in integrity. Proverbs 20:7
He is strong, knowledgeable and increases power. Proverbs 24:5
He controls his temper. Proverbs 29:11
His words are gracious. Ecclesiastes 10:12
His countenance has been softened by wisdom.
Ecclesiastes 8:1
Thank you so much @moderator for pointing out these passages for the qualities of a virtuous man!
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