Proverbs 31

A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman--it is rare to find a woman like me?  I am far more precious than jewels and my value is far above rubies or pearls.

The heart of my husband trusts in me confidently and relies on and believes in me securely, so that he has no lack of honest gain or need of dishonest spoil.

I comfort, encourage, and do him only good as long as there is life within me.

I seek out wool and flax and work with willing hands to develop it.

I am like the merchant ships loaded with foodstuffs; I bring me household's food from a far country.

I rise while it is yet night and get spiritual food for my household and assign my maids their tasks.

I consider a [new] field before I buy or accept it expanding prudently and not courting neglect of my present duties by assuming other duties; with my savings of time and strength I plant fruitful vines in my vineyard.

I gird myself with strength spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for my God-given task and make my arms strong and firm.

I taste and see that my gain from work with and for God is good; my lamp goes not out, but it burns on continually through the night of trouble, privation, or sorrow, warning away fear, doubt, and distrust.

I lay my hands to the spindle, and my hands hold the distaff.

I open my hand to the poor, yes, I reach out my filled hands to the needy whether in body, mind, or spirit.

I fear not the snow for my family, for all my household is doubly clothed in scarlet.

I make for myself coverlets, cushions, and rugs of tapestry. My clothing is of linen, pure and fine, and of purple such as that of which the clothing of the priests and the hallowed cloths of the temple were made.

My husband is known in the city's gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.

I make fine linen garments and lead others to buy them; I deliver to the merchants girdles [or sashes that free one up for service.

Strength and dignity are my clothing and my position is strong and secure; I rejoice over the future the latter day or time to come, knowing that my family and I are in readiness for it!

I open my mouth in skillful and godly Wisdom, and on my tongue is the law of kindness giving counsel and instruction.

I look well to how things go in my household, and the bread of idleness (gossip, discontent, and self-pity) I will not eat.

My children rise up and call me blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied); and my husband boasts of and praises me, saying,

“Many daughters have done virtuously, nobly, and well with the strength of character that is steadfast in goodness] but you my wife, excel them all.”

Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain [because it is not lasting], but a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord, shall be praised!

Give me of the fruit of my hands, and let my own works praise me in the gates of the city!