Why Proverb31girl?

Most things I do are under the alias “proverb31girl.”

The easy answer to why is defined in the bible – Proverbs 31 – the latter part of the chapter. The hard answer is this. I believe the proverb 31 woman described in this chapter is not the way many people see her. Many see her as this ridiculously amazing woman. Someone who not only takes care of her family and the poor but does everything perfectly. She’s “practically perfect in every way.” I think she’s seen as an ideal that not many, if anyone, can reach.

I see her as a woman after God’s heart. A woman who cares about the things that are important to Him. A woman who loves everyone and strives to show love every single day to every person that crosses her path. I believe she’s a woman who is not perfect – but she’s a woman who wants to be. She sees every day as an opportunity to do what she’s called to do – whether it be a wife, a mother, a business woman, a minister etc. I think the proverb 31 woman is more visible in today’s world than one may think. I think anyone running their race the best they can, doing what God called them to do, is a proverb 31 woman. So why say “woman” but call myself “girl?” Well, I’m not quite sure I’m there yet. I feel like a proverb31woman in training. And to me, a girl is a woman in training

I know most pastors will tell you to never quote the Message Bible – that it’s for modern every day understanding rather than straight from God’s words, but for this blog I think this is appropriate. Please take the time and look up the scripture in a more literal bible as well.

Proverbs 31:10-31 (The Message)

Hymn to a Good Wife

^10-31 A good woman is hard to find,
and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve,
and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She’s like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
and brings back exotic surprises.
She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast
for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it,
then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work,
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
diligent in homemaking.
She’s quick to assist anyone in need,
reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows;
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing,
and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected
when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them,
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her;
her husband joins in with words of praise:
“Many women have done wonderful things,
but you’ve outclassed them all!”
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!

This blog is in no way affiliated with Proverbs 31 Ministries or proverbs31.org but I do recommend you check them out – it’s an amazing ministry that I’d one day love to be a part of.