Proverbs chapter 31

You know, I'm going to miss Proverbs. I've had fun here.

vs 11

Not only is this woman trustworthy, but because of her service to her husband, he actually becomes richer and more powerful as a result.

vs 12

I think this is like an active good. I'm sure there's some passive good in there too, but my point is that doing nothing isn't doing good. This is a woman who actively brings good to her husband.

vs 13

Obviously not literally necessary - but being useful and creative are wonderful traits.

vs 14

To cook for the family, perhaps? I'm guessing, by the way, that this is written to people of noble stature, kings and the like. But then, putting a nice meal on the table every now and again is really nice.

vs 15

She works hard at what she does, is the point here. Obviously not all wives even cook. But a good woman is one who doesn't sit idle - but instead makes the most of her situation and treats it seriously. This goes just as much for a man, really.

vs 16

See, this is business savvy right here. She takes appropriate responsibility, makes decisions, and makes things happen.

vs 17

I think 'arms are strong for her tasks' doesn't mean she lifts weights. It means that she does what she's set herself to do.

vs 18

Profitable trading just continues on with the responsible and useful activities thing. The lamp never going out - reliable? Like she makes sure her husband can find his way home, even late at night?

vs 19

Of course... the distaff and spindle...

Something to do with spinning wool and making thread. Just more about being useful and productive.

vs 20

Which is just plain wise, as we've all seen from reading the rest of proverbs.