The Proverbs 31 Woman

Proverbs 31 Woman by Eva C. Crawford

Next week begins the Proverbs 31 study. I thought I'd share some insights about this woman before we dig in deeper.

"Just when you thought you'd seen the last of that Proverbs 31 woman, here she comes again to remind you of how wonderful she is. But don't look at her as someone who is larger than life. See in her all the things you can become with the help of Almighty God." - Women of Character by Lawrence Kimbrough

This is an acrostic poem with each verse beginning with next Hebrew letter. The woman described encompasses all of wisdom's skills and virtues, from a to z. From The Baker Illustrated Bible Commentary

We are not in competition with this woman. In fact, she is not one woman but a composite of the wonderful attributes of womanhood.  From the ESV Study Bible - "This lofty portrait of excellence sets such a high standard that it can be depressing to godly women today until its purpose is understood. First, the woman embodies in all areas of life the full character of wisdom commended throughout this book [Proverbs]....Second, as with other character types, this profile is an ideal: a particular example of full-scale virtue and wisdom toward which the faithful are willing to be molded. It is not expected that any one woman will look exactly like this in every respect."

During this study it is important to remember our "who" from our "do". I am currently reading According to Plan by Graeme Goldsworthy. In the preface he states, "...that every part of the Bible is given its fullest meaning by the saving work of Christ, who restores a sinful, fallen creation and makes all things new." As we read Proverbs 31, we must consider who we are in Christ and what He has done for us.  Because of Jesus we can be empowered by the Holy Spirit to follow the examples written in this chapter.

The following video is by Connie Witter from her study, Because of Jesus. I'll be using some of her material to supplement our study. I'll also be using the book, The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace.