Proverbs chapter 31

vs 21

They're clothed well because she has clothed them well. She has made sure the family has not just clothes, but good clothes. And not just good clothes, but expensive clothes, stylish clothes.

vs 22

Industrious and well groomed - from the previous verses, you almost get the idea that the reason the family can afford this stuff is because of her work, not the husband's.

vs 23

This isn't just an idle verse - he's respected partly because of her.

vs 24

One more point for industriousness. She's doing so well that she can sell stuff that is of a quality the merchants want it for themselves!

vs 25

A strong woman, confident, dignified. She has this air of self-sufficiency, but in fact is being sufficient for the whole family.

vs 26

Because, of course, the children will learn a lot from her, and probably her husband too.

vs 27

Mmm, bread of idleness.

I'd suck at doing regular household chores. The idea of doing things over and over again, of work never being done? Erk. I'd be baking big old batches of idleness.

vs 28

Deservedly, from the sounds of it. Although I can imagine some women of noble character whom are not recognised as such by their familes - but if they're confident enough, they should be able to encourage such respect.

vs 29

Awwww. What a nice thing to say to your wife.

vs 30

And that's the crux of the matter. Sure, you can be pretty. Sure, you can be a sultry charming lass. But if you're a woman of God, you're going to be trustworthy, dependable, hard-working, and a boon to the whole family.

vs 31

And see, she will also be praised for the work she has done. People will see the fruits of her industry, the support she gives the family, the way they are always so well looked after, and say, "Gosh, that guy's got a great wife."

And so, here endeth Proverbs. On a rather happy note, really.