The Working Woman of Proverbs 31

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate (Proverbs 31:29-31).

Regardless of your gender, there is much to learn of the biblical personality, the Proverbs 31 Woman. Because there is a tangible description of her day-to-day life in just one chapter of God’s Word, it seems worthy to take a detailed look at this woman’s life. Obviously, from the Scripture above, her most noteworthy character trait is that she is “a woman who fears the Lord.” Her humility is admirable, and she very clearly walks closely with God. A close study of this dynamic character can be both an inspiration and an example of the happiness and intention that can be found by searching and knowing your soul before God.

This woman was married to a lucky guy! She had children who enjoyed seeing her each day! But the priority in her life was living in a manner pleasing to God (verses 29-31). She feared God (verse 30), regularly gave to those in need (v. 20), and while her body, like that of any person, needed rest, she did not let her spirit or life grow idle (v. 27).

Her prayers would have been full of faith and humility as she grew in her fear of the Lord. Her study of God’s Word would have been a regular priority since she spoke with wisdom and faithful instruction (v. 26). And her ministry would not have been just a simple invite to a Bible discussion group or church, but one testifying to her entire life, one she lived as an example for her children, relatives, friends, and coworkers. She trusted God when thinking of the days ahead (v. 25), choosing not to listen to the lies of her enemy nor to live in a state of worry.

Because of the apparent surrender of her spirit and life to God, she was happy. She filled out the life God gave her! She was a joyful woman who was all about God.  She was at peace in how He made her, and this joy reflected to the people around her. This strength of character enabled her to bring her husband good (v. 12) and to work with eager hands (v. 13). Her joy kept fear from controlling her (v. 21). And this left her husband and children saying nothing but great things about her (v. 28).

 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:44-46).

The Proverbs 31 Woman’s life matches the teaching we see here from Jesus. God and His people should be your most valued treasure. From that spirit and starting point, you will be able to craft an effective life, a highly productive one, just as this woman lived. You will see yourself more clearly, know what you like and dislike, and see how God made you—extraordinarily so. You will not waste time regretting that you are not someone else, because you will be secure in who God has made you. You will trust God with your past and look forward to a promising future. You will trust your role in life, including your position at the workplace or how you serve in the church, and you will know that God values you. And your treasure with God will be a great motivator, just as it was for this woman.

Study further, take a few minutes to read and learn more about her, Proverbs 31:10-31.