The purpose of Proverbs is to teach us how to attain wisdom and do what is right, just and fair in our daily lives. I think it’s beautiful that Proverbs ends with a woman who embodies just that. The Proverbs 31 woman has been held in high esteem in our society due to the duties she seems to handle with grace. Some scholars have speculated that the Proverbs 31 woman is not one woman, but a conglomeration of admirable attributes of different women. Others say that she’s not a woman at all, but a personification of wisdom. Regardless of what’s accurate, this chapter has lessons to glean. Since it is Women’s History Month, I will assume the position of talking about one woman, so let’s take it from there.
Aside from her accomplishments, there’s a lot we can glean from her essence, and there are beautiful hidden gems in verses 10-31 that I’m excited to dive into and share my interpretation. I discovered that those verses create an acrostic poem as each scripture begins with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. To me, that subtle charm exemplifies the beauty that women sprinkle onto the things we touch.
The first verse introduces this woman and mentions her noble character and self worth (Proverb 31:10). Before highlighting your accomplishments, you must understand that you are precious in the eyes of God and worth, “far more than rubies,” because He made you. Simply existing and evolving to be the best version of yourself makes you priceless. And, it is because of this woman’s character that, “her husband has full confidence in her,” (Proverb 31:11). When you value who you are, you give others no other option than to follow suit. But, it’s not just a one way street. Verse 12 says, “She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”
I paid closer attention to the order of the words describing the Proverbs 31 woman. It doesn’t start with her accolades and leadership skills, as society tends to focus on, but rather, it highlights her character and her being. So, who are you before the work you do? I believe her self esteem is the reason she shows up and, “works with eager hands,” (Proverb 31:13). She seems to enjoy her life and is determined enough to, “get up while it is still night [and] provide food for her family.” (Proverbs 31:15)
So far, the Proverbs 31 woman shows us God is first because He made her, then her family and then we finally get into what she does for a living in verses 16-24. God desires wealth in all areas of your life. What good is an honorable plague if your house isn’t in order? What good is achieving milestones that many people pray for, like marriage and children, if you’re miserable with whom you spend most of your time? The Proverbs 31 woman lays out how to make an impact and keep your family together – work not only for yourself but everyone you’re connected to. You should be working for your family, employees, church and community. Why? It unveils ways to bring in more money and wealth which is fantastic for business. My pastor once said, “If God can get money through, He will give money to you.” The Proverbs 31 woman diversified her portfolio and became a manufacturer, importer, manager, realtor, farmer, seamstress, upholsterer and merchant which speaks to the many skills and talents God has placed in all women. You are intricately complex and can hold multiple titles at the same time. I’ve heard many business tips about creating multiple income streams, however, the Bible said it first!
As you diversify your income, you must ensure your efforts are “profitable” (Proverb 31:18). God’s daughters are not in business to lose money, so this is when your boss woman energy comes out unapologetically. When you work hard and give God something to bless, there’s little room for worry in rough seasons (Proverb 31:21). When you are diligent and focused, your efforts will invite an overflow to be a blessing to those in need (Proverb 31: 20). When you work selflessly, you also put respect on the names attached to you (Proverb 31:23). When you stay faithful, you will enjoy each day and spread hope and wisdom to those who will eternally love and respect your journey (Proverbs 31:25-31).
Mighty is God in the lives of women! Read Proverbs 31 today with this new interpretation, and I hope it helps you see your greatness in a different light. I have faith in you.
Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending self worth to all women. Her true work began after climbing out of a dark place with the help of God and therapy, and her life mission is to provide tangible peace through her Divine gifts to help women heal and transform their lives. Follow the mission on Instagram and Facebook: @perennialpeaces.
