Proverbs 31
Part 1
The words of King Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.”
This is all we know of King Lemuel, but you see be reemebered what his mother taught him, no doubt when he was a young man. Lemnel may have been another name for Solomon; anyway these words have been kept with The Proverbs. His name means, “He who is turned, or devoted, to God, so these words will help any who want to honor God; they are called a “prophecy”, which meant important words learned of the Lord.
King Lemuel’s mother warned him not make friends with evil persons, nor to drink wine and liquor which would cause him to forget the laws, and be an unjust ruler.
The last part of this chapter is a poem in the Hebrew language, and each of the twenty-two verses begins with a letter of the Hehrew alphabet in order, which would make it even more interesting. The poem tells of a “virtuous”, or good woman. You may think this would be a very old fashioned lady, told of so long ago, and one not wise, but if you read all this poem you will see she was very wise and capable.
Her first virtue was that she could be trusted, she was not deceitful, but true and faithful (Verses 11,12). Then she was industrious and willing. In those days garments and articles for the house were not only sewed by hand, but yarn and thread were spun from wool and flax and the cloth woven at home. Often helpers were needed but this wise woman knew how to do herself and to direct all. She also planted a field, or garden, and a vineyard, and provided food for all. She made fine linen which were used to keep, the loose garments in place, and often embroidered; these she sold.
Her husband was “known” in the gates, which was where all important matters were settled and business done, and he was a leader there. But this high place did not cause his wife to be idle she was most diligent. They must have had a large household, and we think how God has a household on earth of all His people, there is much work for them to do. Each one of His family is in a high position, but it is a place to help others.
You notice the good woman was not planning or spending her time or talents for herself, but for others, and for what was of value and needed, or to give joy, not for what was vain and useless. She bought the field and planted and sold cloth, that she might have more to give others.
There are ever so many ways for all to help in God’s household, if they are willing to help with everyday tasks. There were men and women who worked much to help Paul, Peter and others who were teaching God’s Words; surely the boys and girls helped too, perhaps to prepare a meal, or a room to sleep, or the room to meet together, or to ask some one to come to listen (Romans 16).
How did this good woman work? Verse 13.
When did she arise? Verse 15.
Were her candles burned out when most needed? Verse 18.
Did she help the poor? Verse 20.
Her household were clothed in “scarlet” (double), so of what was she not afraid? Verse 21.
What do you think this means, “She eateth not the bread of idleness?” Verse 27.
We will learn more of this good woman another time, the Lord willing.
ML 05/25/1941