Proverbs 31

“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future” (v25).  This picture of “an excellent wife” (v10) describes the kind of life that God desires for all people.  This woman isn’t looking for a magic shortcut to happiness.  She knows that “charm is deceitful and beauty is vain” (v30), and so she puts her efforts into work that produces long-lasting benefits.  She has discovered the secret of a fruitful, joyful life: deep, trusting relationships (v11) and satisfying work. 

The kind of life we admire, the life that honors God, isn’t a matter of chance.  It is a series of quiet, courageous daily choices.