Part 11 - Proverbs 31

This Bible study devotional covers Proverbs 31. In this passage, we read the wisdom of King Lemuel’s mother about noble kings and worthy women.

As always, we are committed to showing you how to see the good news of the Gospel in every passage of Scripture. Proverbs 31 shows a picture of Jesus’ love for his church. Jesus, our noble king, loves and pursues his valiant wife, the church.

**Observation Questions:**

1. What are some of the activities and qualities of the valiant wife described in Proverbs 31:10-31?

2. How does the valiant wife in Proverbs 31 extend her hands to the needy, and what does this suggest about her character?

3. In what ways does the Son of Man's service, as described in Matthew 20:28, reflect the noble king's attributes discussed in Proverbs 31?

4. According to Ephesians 5:25-27, what is the purpose of Christ's love and sacrifice for the church?

**Interpretation Questions:**

1. How does the description of the valiant wife in Proverbs 31 challenge traditional views of gender roles?

2. What does it mean for a woman to be praised for fearing the Lord rather than for her physical beauty, according to Proverbs 31?

3. In what ways does Jesus' act of service and sacrifice, as mentioned in Matthew 20:28, redefine leadership and power?

4. How does the metaphor of marriage in Ephesians 5:25-27 enhance our understanding of Jesus' relationship with the Church?

**Application Questions:**

1. Reflect on the qualities of the valiant wife in Proverbs 31. Choose one quality you admire and share a specific way you can cultivate it in your life this week.

2. Considering the valiant wife's entrepreneurial spirit, what is one step you can take to use your talents for the betterment of your community?

3. In light of Jesus' example of service in Matthew 20:28, identify a specific action you can take this week to serve someone in your community without seeking anything in return.

4. As Ephesians 5 describes Christ's love for the Church, think of one way you can demonstrate selfless love in a relationship this week, whether it be familial, romantic, or platonic.

5. Choose one area where you feel inadequate and commit to a specific action or prayer that will help you rely on Jesus' strength and wisdom in that area.