The virtuous housewife
I. HER INFLUENCE IN THE SPHERE OF HOME. (Proverbs 31:10-22.)
1. Her exceeding worth. (Proverbs 31:10-12.) A costly treasure not everywhere to be found; no commonplace blessing: an ornament and a joy above all that earth affords of rare and beautiful. A treasure on which the heart of the possessor ever dwells with delight.
"Continual comfort in a face,
The lineaments of gospel books."
She is the rich source of revenue to her husband in all good things.
"All other goods by fortune's hand are given;
A wife is the peculiar gift of Heaven."
(Pope.)
"If women be good," said Aristotle, "the half of the commonwealth may be happy where they are." "The greatest gift of God is a pious, amiable spouse, who fears God, loves his house, and with whom one can live in perfect confidence" (Luther).
2. The picture of her domestic industry. (Proverbs 31:13 - 22.) It is an antique picture, the form and colouring derived from ancient custom; but the general moral effect is true for all times. The traits of the housewifely character are:
II. FURTHER TRAITS AND DETAILS OF THE PICTURE, (Proverbs 31:23-31.)
1. She reflects consideration on her husband. Her thrift makes him rich; her noble character gives him additional title to respect. His personality derives weight from the possession of such a treasure, the devotion of such a heart. Her business capacity, her energy, and the quiet dignity of her life and bearing; the mingled sense and shrewdness, charm and grace of her conversation (Proverbs 31:24-27);—are all a source of fame, of noble self-complacency, of just confidence to the man who is blessed to call her "mine."
2. Her life and work earn for her perpetual thanks and benedictions. (Proverbs 31:28, Proverbs 31:29.) Her children, as they grow up, bless her for the inestimable boon of a mother's care and love. She has revealed to them God; and never can they cease to believe in goodness so long as they recollect her. She basks in the sunshine of a husband's constant approved. "Best of wives!" "Noblest of women!" is the thought ever in his heart, often on his lips.
3. It is religion which gives enduring worth and immortality to character, (Proverbs 31:30, Proverbs 31:31.) Beauty is a failing charm or a deception of the senses. But religious principle gives a spiritual beauty to the plainest exterior. Being and doing from religious motives, to religious ends,—this is a sowing for eternal fruits. And the works of love for God's sake and man's fill the air with fragrance to the latest end of time, and are found unto praise, honour, and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.—J.