I’ll be speaking in our homeschool support group in a couple of weeks about Proverbs 31:20-22. I thought as part of my preparation that I would read the verses in a few different translations and versions. This is how The Message interprets these verses. I thought it was interesting; so, I thought I’d just share it with you all in case you don’t have this version. This is a direct quote. You can find all sorts of versions and translations at www.biblegateway.com.
Hymn to a Good Wife
10-31 A good woman is hard to find,
and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve,
and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She’s like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
and brings back exotic surprises.
She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast
for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it,
then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work,
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
diligent in homemaking.
She’s quick to assist anyone in need,
reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows;
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing,
and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected
when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them,
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her;
her husband joins in with words of praise:
“Many women have done wonderful things,
but you’ve outclassed them all!”
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!
My friend, Mrs. B. recently pointed out to me and some other ladies that this is not a real woman. This is the ideal woman as described by King Lemuel’s mother. That was a great comfort to me. This lady seems perfect. What mother doesn’t want a perfect wife for her son? Perhaps it’s something to aspire to and work toward rather than a judgement upon those of us (all of us) that are less than perfect. Know what I mean?
Blessings to you all, I’m up late rather than early! I guess I’d better get to bed.
God bless and don’t beat yourselves up over Mrs. P31 anymore!
