Proverbs 31

“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future” (v25). This description of “an excellent wife” is very similar, in spirit, to biblical advice for men. Diligence, honesty, kindness and wisdom are the marks of both men and women who fear the Lord. They also happen to be the characteristics of people who “succeed” in ordinary life; these are people who have good relationships with others, work hard and honor commitments, and save for the future.

Free from the selfish, self-destructive habits of evil (v3-5), people of wisdom and strength have the ability to help the “afflicted and needy” (v9, 20).