I’ve always been a little disappointed that the the Proverbs 31 passage says nothing about the importance of friends. You don’t learn everything from mom and dad. And you can’t share your embarrassing moments with just anybody. So here is my revelation. All of the characteristics mentioned in this passage of scripture are ones that don’t just benefit a woman wanting to excel all other women, or for a man seeking a good wife. This passage of scripture is a good way to tell if you have a good friend.
Just as a husband’s heart trusts safely in a P31, you can rest in knowing you are safe with a friend who can keep your secret or major concerns confidential. The P31 seeketh wool and flax to work with, and seeketh food from afar. Having a shopping body that is good at finding a sale and making you buy that dress you were on the fence about, is invaluable. She’s there for you in your time of need. When you are poor in spirit and strength, she’s there to help you. She knows how to do things you don’t know how to do, and willingly teaches you. She inspires you.
The most important characteristic is the wisdom she shares in love. She’s honest with you and follows it with encouragement. She tells you about yourself when you didn’t really ask for her opinion, but the truth always makes you better. She happily teaches you in order to help you be a better woman. When I think of the passage in this sense, a P31 is truly worth more than rubies. Who else will tell you to show your meat some love.
References: Proverbs 31: 10,11,13,14,20,26,29
