Proverbs 31:10-31

Women's Ministry in the Home and Community.

1. The commandments of God are a mirror for the soul to look into. (James 1:25)

   1. Prov 31:10-31 is the mirror for a woman who fears the Lord.

   2. Prov 31:10-31 is a transforming mirror because it is the word of God.

• 1Thess 2:13

  1. Prologue: it's really a matter of the heart, vv. 10-12.

• Proverbs 12:4, Proverbs 19:14

• Her character is displayed in her eager care and work.

  1. She works with her hands "with delight" [willingly], v. 13.

  2. She demonstrate her skills in making sure her household is well provisioned, vv. 14-15.

  3. She engages in business venture planning for the future, v. 16.

  4. Her commitment is shown in steady and determined service.

• Even her coverings reveal much about her soul.

  1. She prepares clothing for her family, v. 19

  2. She loves her neighbor as herself, covering those less blessed than her own household, v. 20.

  3. Her reputation extends to those who are leaders in the community.

• The godly joy of her soul is shown in her character and in her words.

  1. Her moral wardrobe is richer than her physical wardrobe.

• Proverbs 24:3-4

  1. Her moral wardrobe is displayed in her speech.

• James 3:2

• Her goodness toward others comes back upon herself.

  1. God sees to it that blessing comes back upon itself.

• Gal 6:7-9

  1. She is blessed by her children, v. 28

  2. She is blessed by her husband, vv. 28-29.

  3. She is a sanctified woman.

• Revelation 12:17

• The conclusion and moral of the proverbial teaching, vv. 30-31.

  1. The valor of this wife comes from her fearing the Lord.

• Romans 12:1, Proverbs 11:22, Psalm 147:11

  1. She can live a transparent life.

  2. Her work and service are valued by the Lord.

• Matthew 7:18, Romans 6:22, Mark 14:19, Acts 9:39

• A few more things to think about as you meditate on this divine mirror of feminine beauty.

  1. Proverbial teaching deal with what should be, or what is the general case. What about the effects of the fall in this picture?

  2. The description of this woman's work is from an ancient culture. But the principles are of universal application.

  3. A woman who follows the example of Proverbs 31 has to walk down paths which are not always honored in the world.

  4. Single women can look to the mirror of Proverbs 31 also.

     1. Serve your family.

     2. Serve your church.

     3. Serve the needy, especially in the church. 1 Corinthians 7:34

     4. Christ is your Lord, submit to him, and look for his praise. 1Peter 3:6.