Hymn to a Good Wife

Proverbs 31:13 (The Message)

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 the 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 all 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!"