The Proverbs 31 Husband

The Proverbs 31 Husband

An excellent husband, who can find?

He is far, far more precious than jewels.

The heart of his wife trusts in him, and she will have no lack of gain because of him.

This man does her good, and does not harm her, all of the days of his life.

He seeks what he needs to provide for his family, working with willing hands.

He is like the ships of the merchant; he brings food from afar.

He rises while it is yet night and provides food for his household.

He carefully plans and calculates his investments, and with his own hands makes his family's dreams become reality.

He addresses himself with strength and makes his arms strong.

He perceives that his merchandise is profitable.

His lamp does not go out at night.

He puts his hands to the distaff, and his hands hold the spindle.

He is compassionate towards and helps those who need it.

He is not afraid of the snow for his household, for all in his household are clothed in scarlet.

He dresses himself with respect and authority.

His wife is known among the people as a woman of wisdom and honor. She is able to sit with the most esteemed.

He creates linen garments and sells them; he delivers sashes to the merchant.

Strength and dignity are his clothing, and he laughs at the time to come because he is prepared.

He opens his mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on his tongue.

He looks well to the ways of his household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

His children rise up and call him blessed; his wife also, and she praises him: "many men have done excellently, but you surpass them all."

Charm is deceitful, and good looks are vain, but a man who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Give him the fruit of his hands, and let his works praise him among the people.

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I am so thankful for the man that I have, and am honored to call him my "husband." He is wise, strong, a hard worker, diligent, protective. I am able to trust him, and he IS far more precious than any jewel. He is compassionate, respectful, and a man who fears the Lord. So many times, this Proverbs 31 passage is used as an example of what a woman should be like--which is great, but did you notice how many attributes are also beautiful for a husband to have? This passage is used by many as an argument that women should not work outside the home, but if you read it in a light that isn't already tainted with ideas of interpretation, you can see that this passage is not at all restrictive or demeaning. Instead, it is a gorgeous and honoring portrait of a good spouse. Thank you, my dear husband, for being this man for me. I hope that I also am this for you and our children, and it is because of these attributes, that I know our family will be strong. I love you. <3 i="i">