Proverbs 31:10-31 describes a truly legendary wife. She seems mythical, practically impossible. But a few years ago, I sat down with this chapter of Proverbs hoping for inspiration for a homemade anniversary card for my wife on our 36th anniversary, I somewhat surprisingly (though not totally) found a match for Sharlene with every single quality listed in the passage. I wrote that card and excitedly presented it to her over a romantic dinner in a Montana steakhouse restaurant. (We’d spent the day in Yellowstone National Park.)
Without going into all the details – because there are many – the summarizing characteristics of that wife (and mine) are:
- Independent. It may be surprising to some that the Bible would hold in such high regard a wife as independent, the stereotype of Biblical wives often being dependent on their husbands.
This shows us that God doesn’t desire husbands to be controlling or micromanaging of their wives. He made men and women with minds to think with on their own and sometimes being a Godly husband means getting out of his wife’s way.
Getting out of her way doesn’t mean he stays on the couch, lazily depending on her to carry the load of provision for the family. No, he’s found, instead, at the city gate, which means he’s a respected member and leader of the community.
So Godly husband and virtuous wife live a respectable life, honoring God, others and one another.
- Entrepreneurial. It may also be surprising that a woman in Biblical culture would be a leader in the business community. This lady isn’t passively waiting for her husband to provide. She’s known and respected at the market and is relied upon by her customers to provide valuable resources.
She isn’t shielded by an overprotective husband from the risks of lurking scammers looking to take advantage of the vulnerable and naïve because she’s trusted to be shrewd and strong, not easy prey for stalkers. This woman is vigilant and keenly aware, not ruled by fear.
- Industrious. This wife is no slacker; she burns the midnight oil but isn’t found lying in the bed in the late morning hours. Her family needs her to produce and she delivers. She’s considered a blessing, not only to her husband and community, but also to her children.
Her kids are well clothed, well fed, well trained and well loved.
I take the opportunity afforded in this space to wish my wife, Sharlene, my Proverbs thirty-one wife, a happy 39th anniversary! You are every kind of blessing Solomon wrote about in this classic chapter in Scripture! I thank God for you! What a blessing you are!
This year we go to Memphis, where we’ll see Graceland, the Civil Rights Museum and other sites. We’ve been fasting and praying, but it’s time to eat! So, we’re going to celebrate our marriage and the life God has given us! The fast is over! We’re coming home fat like Elvis, baby!
Happy anniversary, you two!!!!