Wisdom Literature Part 10

Proverbs 31 gives us the answers to these questions from the author’s perspective. This famous chapter of Proverbs is written by a mother to her son, to help prepare him for a life of service. Jewish tradition attributes this letter as Bathsheba’s advice to Solomon. As we respond to God’s calling and invitation to become part of His eternal family, we are also preparing for and learning to live lives of service in the ultimate Royal Family. Because of this we can read Proverbs 31 as if it was a letter written personally for each of us.

In verse 3 the mother advises her son not to give his strength to women, as that will destroy kings. There is a proper drive that God puts in men and women to desire marriage and enjoy the way He designed sexual relations specifically for marriage. To pursue real or virtual frivolous relationships can destroy that drive. This can cause a man to lose the ambition that is created to fuel his desire to be productive and capable of supporting a wife and family. Later in chapter 31 the mother encourages her son to look for a partner for life, rather than short-term relationships.

Next in verses 4-7 she weighs in on alcohol, and by extension any substance that impairs one’s ability to think clearly. A king must be clear-headed at all times to be able to exercise good judgment.

“It is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted” (Proverbs 31:4-5).

It is important not to enable addictions that change one’s priorities or ability to discern what is true and important. She acknowledges that there is benefit to some to drink and forget the challenges that they face, yet it is not for kings.

In verses 8-9, she encourages her son to use the talents, abilities and position that God has given him to serve those that need assistance. He has the ability to communicate clearly and influence outcomes for those that don’t have an advocate otherwise. This is applicable in many ways and is encouraged throughout the Bible as God does deeply care about the physically and spiritually lame, blind, deaf and diseased.  

In the balance of the chapter, the mother encourages her son to look for a wife that has valuable attributes and applies the principles that have filled the book of Proverbs. The woman he marries is to be his partner for life and the decision should be carefully considered. The characteristics the mother mentions are elements of character, and not superficial. The attributes are the result of choices and not DNA or circumstantial. The encouragement is to use maturity and judgment to consider what is truly important and focus on traits of diligence, service, wisdom and graciousness. This is the type of woman who will help him serve optimally. Her children and husband will appreciate her.

“Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised!” (Proverbs 31:30).

Her obedience and hard work earn her honor and praise rather than attributes that fade over time.  

In these final verses we experience the capstone of the book of Proverbs. We read of a woman who exemplifies the character traits encouraged throughout the book. We read of advice to a man to exhibit these same characteristics and develop them to the point where he would be a person of interest to such a charactered woman. This is all key wisdom that we can apply and benefit from in our own lives.

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.