Proverbs 31:25-31This is the description of a virtuous woman of those days, but the general outlines equally suit every age
and nation. She is very careful to recommend herself to her husband’s esteem and affection, to know his
mind, and is willing that he rule over her. 1. She can be trusted, and he will leave such a wife to manage
for him. He is happy in her. And she makes it her constant business to do him good. 2. She is one that
takes pains in her duties, and takes pleasure in them. She is careful to fill up time, that none be lost. She
rises early. She applies herself to the business proper for her, to women’s business. She does what she
does, with all her power, and trifles not. 3. She makes what she does turn to good account by prudent
management. Many undo themselves by buying, without considering whether they can afford it. She
provides well for her house. She lays up for hereafter. 4. She looks well to the ways of her household,
that she may oblige all to do their duty to God and one another, as well as to her. 5. She is intent upon
giving as upon getting, and does it freely and cheerfully. 6. She is discreet and obliging; every word she
says, shows she governs herself by the rules of wisdom. She not only takes prudent measures herself,
but gives prudent advice to others. The law of love and kindness is written in the heart, and shows itself
in the tongue. Her heart is full of another world, even when her hands are most busy about this world. 7
. Above all, she fears the Lord. Beauty recommends none to God, nor is it any proof of wisdom and
goodness, but it has deceived many a man who made his choice of a wife by it. But the fear of God
reigning in the heart, is the beauty of the soul; it lasts for ever. 8. She has firmness to bear up under
crosses and disappointments. She shall reflect with comfort when she comes to be old, that she was not
idle or useless when young. She shall rejoice in a world to come. She is a great blessing to her relations.
If the fruit be good, the tree must have our good word. But she leaves it to her own works to praise her.
Every one ought to desire this honour that cometh from God; and according to this standard we all
ought to regulate our judgments. This description let all women daily study, who desire to be truly
beloved and respected, useful and honourable. This passage is to be applied to individuals, but may it
not also be applied to the church of God, which is described as a virtuous spouse? God by his grace has
formed from among sinful men a church of true believers, to possess all the excellences here described.
God Bless.