Proverbs 31

A friend of mine asked me to type this up and E-mail it to her. I have "The Message" version of the Bible, and I enjoyed the slightly different sound of this version. This scripture is intimidating, in any translation. But, it is also inspiring. Please, enjoy....

Proverbs 31:10-31

Hymn to a good wife

A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She’s like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises.
She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking.
She’s quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows, their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her: her husband joins in with words of praise.
“Many women have done wonderful things, but you’ve outclassed them all!”
Charm can mislead and beauty soon faces.
The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!

I was especially impressed by the "has something worthwhile to say". I know that I waste time, speaking, and writing, things that aren't really worthwhile. I am going to try to be more aware of making the things I say worthwhile. I can usually handle the "kindly" part, except where my husband is concerned. I am going to try to be more kind to him too. He deserves it more than anyone, but it is easiest to be annoyed with him, because I spend the most time with him, and because I am so completely comfortable with him. We talked about that at bible study yesterday. Our husbands deserve to be lifted up. If we give them praise, they will live up to it. They will strive to be what we say they are, and that is something we, as wives, should try to encourage.
So, hold me accountable my friends. I will try to be more "worthwhile" in what I say, and more kind in my words to, and about, my husband.