Proverbs 31 and the 21st century woman

~Tuesday Thoughts~

The 21st century respected woman, as portrayed in media, is a beautiful and self-sufficient one. She is always busy and on the go. She does not depend much on her husband; her financial income and status would be almost as good without him. The virtuous woman loves her children, but doesn’t have much time for them. She juggles work, child-caring, and household errands. Her growing “self-sufficiency” is also portrayed by her attitude to God: “I can do as well without Him”.

The Bible’s vision of a virtuous woman is found in Proverbs 31: 10-31. She works (vv. 13-19, 24) and cares for her family (v. 21-22, 27). However, she is not “self-sufficient.” She fears the Lord (v.30) and brings good to her husband (v. 11-12, 23). She also is “clothed with strength and dignity” (v.25), speaks wisdom (v.26), and helps the poor (v. 20). She is not necessarily beautiful (v.30).  This wife is “worth far more than rubies” (v.10) and should be praised (v.28-31).

From a secular viewpoint, many would say that the 21st century woman is much like the Bible’s virtuous one, arguing that they both work and are busy. However, the other attributes portrayed in the Bible do not match the contemporary “I'm enough by myself” attitude.

How about you? What are your thoughts on the topic?