🧭 Context of Proverbs 31
The chapter closes the Book of Proverbs with instructions given to King Lemuel by his mother, advising him on wise and just leadership, followed by a poetic acrostic tribute to the virtuous woman—an ideal of godly womanhood known for strength, wisdom, diligence, and kindness.
✨ Structure and Summary
| Section | Verses | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Advice to King Lemuel: Leadership and Justice | 1–9 | Warnings against women who lead kings astray; calls for defending the poor and needy. |
| The Virtuous Woman: Character and Deeds | 10–31 | Detailed acrostic praising the diligent, wise, kind, and God-fearing woman. |
🧠 Verse-by-Verse Breakdown by Theme
🟢 1. Wise Leadership and Justice (Verses 1–9)
“Don’t spend your strength on women like those who ruin kings.” (v.3)
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” (v.8)
- King Lemuel’s mother warns him about the temptations that could corrupt a king—especially immoral women and drunkenness (v.3–7).
- The king is called to stand for justice, defend the poor, and speak up for those without a voice (v.8–9).
📌 Application: Leaders should exercise self-control, integrity, and advocate for justice.
🟢 2. The Virtuous Woman (Verses 10–31)
This section is an acrostic poem (each verse begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet) describing the ideal woman’s character and works.
🟠 Character and Value (vv. 10–12)
“A good wife is a secure treasure.” (v.10)
“She brings him good, not harm, all her life long.” (v.12)
- Her value is far above jewels.
- She is trustworthy and brings good to her family.
🟠 Diligence and Provision (vv. 13–19)
“She finds wool and flax and busily spins it.” (v.13)
“She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.” (v.19)
- She works hard and creatively to provide for her family.
- She manages resources wisely and with skill.
🟠 Strength and Service (vv. 20–27)
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” (v.20)
“She is clothed with strength and dignity.” (v.25)
- She is compassionate and generous.
- She carries herself with strength, dignity, and confidence.
- She speaks wisdom and kindness.
🟠 Family and Reputation (vv. 28–31)
“Her children stand and bless her.” (v.28)
“Charm can deceive and beauty can fade, but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised.” (v.30)
- She is honored by her family and community.
- True beauty comes from fearing the LORD and living with integrity.
🔑 Key Themes in Proverbs 31
| Theme | What It Teaches |
|---|---|
| Wise Leadership Requires Self-Control | Leaders must avoid temptation and protect the vulnerable. |
| Virtue Outweighs Riches | True value is found in godly character, not material wealth. |
| Diligence and Wisdom in Work | Hard work and wise management bless family and community. |
| Strength and Compassion Go Together | A godly woman is both strong and kind. |
| Fear of the LORD is the Source of Honor | Reverence for God shapes true beauty and lasting praise. |
🙌 Life Application from Proverbs 31
✔️ For Leaders:
- Exercise self-control, justice, and advocacy for the needy.
✔️ For Women:
- Cultivate virtue, diligence, kindness, and fear of God.
- Understand your true value comes from God, not outward appearances.
✔️ For Everyone:
- Honor and appreciate those who embody these godly traits.
- Seek to be people of wisdom, integrity, and loving service in your daily lives.
📜 Affirmation from Proverbs 31
“I seek to live with strength and dignity, working diligently and speaking with wisdom. I honor God above all, and I value true beauty—character and faithfulness. I will defend the weak and lead with integrity.”
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