Proverbial Advice Still Sound


Published September 9, 1982. Whenever the Bible is mentioned some think of a dusty old book written thousands of years ago that is no longer relevant. While it may be true that some of the thoughts expressed may be antiquated, I am amazed at the relevance of most of the teachings for contemporary living. Within the pages of the Bible are some excellent guidelines for present-day marriage and family living.

Like any other woman, Lemuel’s mother was concerned about the kind of woman her son would someday marry. His choice, however, was particularly significant since one day he would become king, and she, consequently his queen. What kind of a woman should Lemuel marry? What advice did the mother give to her son? What should a husband expect of a wife?

In the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs, Lemuel’s mother admonished him (and I will paraphrase) to find a woman who was virtuous (verse 10), one he could also trust (verse 12) and be willing and able to work with her hands (verse 13). Lemuel was encouraged to find a woman who was knowledgeable about foods and willing to prepare and serve a variety to her household (verse 14-15).

The woman he was to marry should have some knowledge of purchasing land which implies an understanding of money management and financing. She should also be familiar with agriculture in that she could plant and reap from her own vineyard (verse 16).

Lemuel’s wife was to be physically fit and healthy, even strong in that she “girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms (a modern weight lifter?, verse 17). The queen-to-be was to be knowledgeable in consumer economics and able to make wise purchases (verse 18). Not only that, she was expected to know how to make or produce some of her own goods without having to purchase all of them (verse 19).

The new bride was expected to be charitable with a genuine concern for the poor and needy (verse 20). Her children should be well-clothed and prepared for inclement weather (verse 21). She herself was to dress fashionably (verse 22), was to be supportive of her husband and cognizant of his reputation (verse 23). His wife was also encouraged to become involved in merchandizing, both in production and selling (verse 24). And the woman Lemuel married was to be well-educated and knowledgeable in that she “openeth her mouth with wisdom” (verse 26). She also was to be attentive to the needs of those in her household through her diligence (verse 27).

In capsule form, this is what many husbands, ancient and modern, want in a wife. And what a delight she would be! Truly, “Whoso findeth a wife (such as this) findeth a good thing” (Proverbs 18 22). She would be far from a dull woman, and the description mentioned was written several thousand years ago.

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