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Ok ladies, do you remember the Bible study on Proverbs last summer? (If not, go back to this link here: Proverbs 31 Bible Study) Below is a deeper look in the infamous and exciting Proverbs 31 we talked about for what must have been hours- ha!
Here is the breakdown...
The wise words laid out for us in Proverbs 31 have been providing believers a pathway to living a righteous and noble life for quite some time now. But what is the real meaning behind these beautifully poetic words?
Who wrote it and why? Let’s discover the meaning behind this well-known, and beloved passage tucked within the middle of God’s Word and see how we can apply it to our lives today.
Who Wrote It?
First, it may be important to know who wrote it. The author of such writings usually has a purpose for their words, and we see that in King Lemuel’s writing.
Although King Lemuel is not mentioned anywhere else in the Bible, we know that he loved God and longed to honor Him through his fatherly actions. Lemuel here also means “devoted to God.”
However, it may be worth noting that there are several scholars who believe that King Lemuel was a pen name and that, in fact, it was King Solomon who wrote Proverbs 31.
Since the words are inspired by “the king’s” mother, it is possible that the one dispensing the wisdom would be no other than the breathtaking beauty of Bathsheba.
Honestly, that would be fitting since she is a woman that is both intriguing and bewildering. She suffered great loss yet also knew a little something about redemption. God also choose her to be the mother of Solomon, who was included in the genealogy of Jesus.
That being said, she probably would have some words to contribute to her son. Her story would also be a true testament to how to live (and not live) according to God’s Law.
Either way, the writer makes a point to share counsel and offer insight on how to live a purpose-filled life that glorifies our God.
Who Was it Written For?
The king’s writings were meant for his son. His mother gave sage advice that he wished to share and pass down to his son and henceforth pass along to the next generation.
If we look at Proverbs 31, we see that it is broken up into two main sections. Yet, it is often the second part (verses 10-31) that is most often quoted, referred to, and sadly taken out of context in today’s culture and even within the walls of our churches and congregations.
Proverbs 31:10-31 denotes “the wife of noble character.” This long list of qualities has been touching the hearts of women, especially those that are wives or soon-to-be blushing brides, but it actually wasn’t written for them. We will address this momentarily.
The target audience for this Proverb was men, noble men of rank. As already mentioned, this was written for King Lemuel’s son, hoping to guide him to live a life that was prosperous, creating within him the ability to lead well while also pleasing to God.
This Proverb was also used to enlighten the king’s son in choosing a woman of high regard for his wife. Therefore, rejoicing over her and encouraging her to be the woman God is calling her to be.
So, while both men and women can learn valuable nuggets of truth from the poetic words offered in this lovely passage, it was originally intended for men, kings, to be precise.
The Meaning Behind it all....
Rad full article on Christianity.com
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