Bible Thoughts

February 28, 1999

Men place a great value on the riches offered in our world. From precious stones to gold and silver to property to material possessions, mankind will sacrifice lives, honor, and integrity to gain such. They are attractive for the power they give the one who owns such. There is a constant struggle for men to have more and more with an increase in the power that it gives. Yet, not one single mite will be taken with any person when they die. They might even bury one with great treasures in the tomb, but sometime in the future, other men will rob their graves to have their fortunes. The values of society are too often weighed in the light of what can be gained materially.

There are greater treasures than the "treasures of Egypt"(Hebrews 11:26). King Lemuel knew that "what his mother taught him" was greater than all of the riches that might be had in this world. There is no doubt that Lemuel could have had all of those things which men value so highly, but he was not thinking like most humans. There was something higher and nobler, and far more to esteem, than rubies. It was his observation that a "worthy woman is for above rubies." Why would one in such a high place, having at his disposal the power to have anything he wanted, make such an observation? Simple--it is the truth.

A worthy woman brings trust into a man's life(v. 11). In a world of distrust, how refreshing to have someone close to you whom you can trust. The wife will build confidence into the male(can also work the other way). With the trusting mate, one's heart can be poured out without the fear of betrayal. The King had all sorts of advisors, but they could not equal the loyalty of a good and loving wife. And, interestingly, that kind of trust will lead to "no lack of gain."

A worthy woman is one who seeks to do good(v. 12). The writer contrasted that with one who does "evil." There are basically two kinds of people: those who do good and those who do evil. If a young man inclines himself to go after and marry an evil person, only trouble will be the result(works the other way as well). Since marriage is a lifetime relationship, it is imperative that one choose a mate who is "good." And--that good should not stop a few months after the knot is tied, but be a lifetime of seeking to do what is best for the husband(or wife). A worthy woman is not one who does a little good now and then, but lives life in such a manner that good is obvious throughout one's years.

A worthy woman is not afraid of work. Caring for her family requires many hours and much labor to provide for their needs. She works "willingly" at her tasks(v. 13). Such a person does not become so resentful of serving her husband and children that she becomes almost unbearable to live with. Not only thankful in her mind for the blessings of the family, the worthy woman demonstrates it by her willingness to give her time and efforts to see they have the best that she can give.

A worthy woman is energetic(v. 15). Sure, she gets tired and worn-out. There will be moments when she would like just a minute to herself and just a little rest. Knowing what she needs to do, the worthy woman, while she is able, sees that her tasks are done appropriately and timely. She "burns the midnight oil" if necessary. The strength that God has given such a one will be devoted to her God and to her family(v. 17, 19).

A worthy woman uses wisdom in making decisions. Wanting the best for her family, she weighs the use of her funds(v. 16). Carefulness in making decisions that would help(or hurt) the needs of those dearest to her, the King's wife(and all wives) considers the effect that any decision might have upon her loved ones.

A worthy woman has a heart of compassion for those in need. When she is aware of the poor and needy(v. 20), she desires to assist them in their time of want. Not negligent of her own household(v. 21), she realizes there are others who might suffer if she did not extend to them a helping hand.

A worthy woman is a compliment to her husband(v. 23). Without the backing of a good woman, there are many men who would have never been successful in this life. King Lemuel so honored his wife by saying, "Many daughters have done worthily, but thou excellest them all"(v. 29). Her children joined in the praise bestowed by the husband as well(v. 28). The worthy woman has the support of her family.

A worthy woman speaks words of wisdom and kindness(v. 26). Most wives know more than their husbands give them credit for knowing. It is wise to listen to one's wife, she can teach you something. After all, she has been around you and you taught her something--didn't you? As her words of knowledge, so her words of kindness can cause one to honor and recognize her strengths. While men tend to be abrasive and sharp in many situations, the traits of one like Lemuel's wife can make a house a place of love, joy and happiness.

A worthy woman, most of all, is one that "feareth Jehovah"(v. 30). All of the other qualities will be brought into the woman's life when she has this attitude toward Jehovah. With the determination to sit an example for all of her family, her friends, and all those with whom she comes in contact, the worthy woman will place God and His word before all else. The application of the truths in God's word will truly make one a worthy woman.

Always remember, "Grace is deceitful, and beauty is vain; But a woman that feareth Jehovah, she shall be praised" (Proverbs 31:30).