The Wife of Noble Character

Proverbs 31 is the last chapter of the book...so, I find myself dangling on the precipice of November 1, and think perhaps I've finally decided what material I'll use for November devotionals! This is a happy discovery, and I'm very grateful that the 31st of the month fell on a Sunday, since it gives me more time to prepare my thoughts for the first of November!

This final chapter in Proverbs is attributed to King Lemuel, and is referred to as "an oracle his mother taught him..." So, we give proper acknowledgement to King Lemuel's Mom, whoever she was...and take note of the fact that these instructions on the character of a noble wife and mother came directly from a Mom. You may or may not be familiar with Proverbs 31, but the passage at the end of the chapter is quoted often as a "blueprint" for godly womanhood. In the text, the section of the chapter is subtitled: "The Wife of Noble Character."

Because this section is 21 verses in length, I've chosen not to quote it here. I had a portion of the passage read as a part of my Mom's eulogy...she was, I believe, a wife of noble character, as was her mother before her. I am 9 days from my 50th birthday, and have not yet been a wife...time will tell whether my life circumstances will change in that regard, but in the meantime, I am, like all women, called to emulate the wife of noble character.

What is this woman like? Would you know her if you met her? Women, when you look in the mirror, do you see the woman of noble character gazing back at you?

The woman of noble character is safe...you can trust her with your heart and with your soul. She brings good to those she loves, and does not harm them. A woman of noble character works hard, day after day, and provides well for her family. She is a woman who seeks wisdom, and knows well how to use it in her personal life and in her work. This woman is generous...she is a giver...she is unafraid of the future, and looks forward with a spirit of confidence and joy. The wife of noble character brings honor and respect to both her husband and her family. She is known for her strength, her wisdom, and for her faithfulness.

The most noble woman is best loved and most highly praised by those who are closest to her..because those who are closest to her know best of all that her worth is far beyond description...beyond any earthly treasures or jewels...she is priceless in her value, and her family knows it best of all.