1. This verse of Scripture contains an important question as well as the answer. 2. The question has to do with "a virtuous woman." a. "Virtue" is an excellent moral character that all of God's people are to pursue. 1) According to 2 Peter 1:3, God has called His people "to glory and virtue." 2) We are taught in 2 Peter 1:5 to give all diligence in adding "virtue" to our faith. 3) Philippians 4:8 says: "if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." b. In our lesson we are concentrating on passages that relate to virtuous women [women who possess an excellent moral character]. 3. The answer to the question illustrates the value of a virtuous woman. a. Her value is "far above rubies." 1) Rubies are precious stones that are mentioned several times in connection with the value of wisdom (Proverbs 8:11). 2) Rubies are used in making fine jewelry and crowns. 3) We learn from Proverbs 12:4 that "a virtuous woman is a crown to her husband." b. In Proverbs 31 information is presented that explains why a virtuous woman is so valuable.
Discussion:
I. LET US CONSIDER SEVERAL REASONS WHY A VIRTUOUS WOMAN IS SO VALUABLE
A. Her value is seen in the special relationship she has with her family. 1. She has a special relationship with her husband. a. She has the trust of her husband (vs.11). b. She always treats him properly (vs.12). c. She helps him to have a good reputation (vs.23). 2. She also has a special relationship with her children -- she tends to their needs. a. She sees that they are well-clothed (vs.21). b. She looks well to all their needs (vs.27). B. Her value is seen in the many good qualities she possesses. 1. She is industrious in that: a. she works with her hands (vs.13-14, 24) b. she plants a vineyard (vs.16) c. the quality of her workmanship is good, and she is not lazy (vs.18-19) d. she is able to take care of her own needs (vs.22). 2. She is diligent (vs.15). 3. She is strong and honorable (vs.17, 25). 4. She is also kind (vs.26). C. Her value is seen in her concern for the poor and needy (vs.20).
II. (vs.28-31) BECAUSE OF HER VALUE, A VIRTUOUS WOMAN DESERVES TO BE PRAISED
A. The virtuous woman is confident in her abilities, but she does not praise herself. B. She would not be so vain that she would have to boast about herself. C. However, she deserves to be highly praised by her children, her husband, and her own works.
Conclusion:
1. Proverbs 31:10a asks the question: "Who can find a virtuous woman?" 2. Boaz found one (Ruth 3:11; 4:13-22). 3. A virtuous woman is a God-fearing woman who fulfills her responsibilities to God, to herself, to her husband, to her children, and to her fellow man. 4. May God richly bless all virtuous women, and may He help all of us to honor, respect, and appreciate our virtuous women.
