Applying Proverbs 31 to A Godly Man's Character

Silhouette of a father with his daughter

Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV: “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. 8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its  leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

He is industrious and hardworking,

Caring, Strong, a Good-provider, true and pure,

He is a virtuous man,

A picture of goodness that still endures.

He is an honorable gentleman,

Who is clothed with dignity and grace;

And his wife and family,

Take delight in the presence of God upon his face.

I was getting ready one morning when I had an interesting thought.  The "Proverbs 31 Woman” is described as being industrious, hard-working, caring, honorable, nurturing, and courageous. She is a helpmeet to her spouse; she is a good steward of the things she manages.  She is an asset to her husband, family, and community.  She is described as a ruby, which is vibrant, multi-faceted, and strong. These things are true of her inner character, emotions, and spiritual gifts. It is the description of a woman who loves God and others.

But then, as I meditated about this list, I had the most stunning thought. While I have never heard anyone make the comparison, there are many men I know who would also fit this description. Now, let me give you the masculine version of this list: industrious, hard-working, honorable, and a good provider. He is caring, comforting, and courageous. He is a co-worker with his spouse. He is a good steward, not just of the things that they share, but of his family. He is an asset to his wife, family, and the community.

I can even compare him to a ruby, because he is a rock: tough, and he too has many facets to his personality and character. This describes a man who loves God and others. I even wondered if, with this fresh perspective, we would be able to encourage one another to be more of who and what God originally designed us to be. We are each other’s strength when we work together, support one another, and are joined in a circle of His love. 

So while this may be a new thought, and some will say—out of context—I am saying, why not be open to a new one? God is our Rock; He is our refuge. He is the One who provides for us.  He shed His blood to give us our worth.  His character is multifaceted. His love, mercy, and grace were poured out in the most caring and nurturing act known to mankind. God gave His greatest asset, His Son, to make you His bride. And in this gift, He showed humility, strength, and courage. 

Silhouette of a man tipping his hat!

He is the image of the person,

That is described in Proverbs 31.

This man of God fulfills many roles …

Husband, father, brother, and son.

He is hardworking and loyal, 

He is our rock in times of need.

Yet he can be gentle and give us comfort,

If our heart is about to bleed.

I don’t think the Lord will mind my image at all. I hope some of you guys will even be brave enough to embrace it. By the way, it is a compliment!! And to those men, who follow Christ, you are the shining example of His love. Your lives have a radiance that blesses the Father. While we both bleed and get cuts, we can show His goodness and faithfulness to those around us by displaying the love in our hearts. I think God is proud of His Proverb 31 woman, now I wonder if He might enlist a few Good Men?

Lord, You are a Ruby,

You shed Your precious blood for me.

You are my Rock, Refuge, Redeemer,

You were displayed upon a cross, for all to see.

The many facets of Your goodness,

Forgiveness, mercy, faithfulness, and grace,

Were cuts upon the heart of God,

Yet the love reflected shines radiantly from Your face.

God loved us, and commands us to love others. Maybe Proverbs 31 is just another take on His view of love. 

A Short Bible Study on a Godly Man's Character: 

Proverbs 20:7, Psalms 112:1-2, Titus 1:7, Ephesians 4:29 and 5:25, John 13:14, James 1:19-20, and 1 Timothy 3:2-3 & Proverbs 31

Happy Father's Day, Dad, Granddad, Brothers, Nephews, Uncles, and Friends. We love seeing the ways you're growing and emulating our Lord!

by: deborah goshorn-stenger 2 Pause and Praise Creations ©