Hymn to a Good Wife (Proverbs 31.10-31)

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 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 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 fades.

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!