Monday, May 21, 2012

Who can find a virtuous man?

Proverbs 31:10-31 has a pretty great description of the ideal virtuous woman, whose price is far above rubies.  It seemed to me that we need a male counterpart, so I took it upon myself to write one, though considerably modernized. ;-)


Who can find a virtuous man? For his price is far above emeralds.
The heart of his wife safely trusts in him, so that she will have no fear of betrayal, neglect, abuse, or pornography.
He will do her good and not evil all the days of his life.
He seeketh resources and worketh willingly with his hands.
He is like the merchants ships; he bringeth home the best deals from afar.
He riseth while it is yet night, and repaireth the broken appliances.
He considereth the yard, and moweth it.  With the tools of his garage, he trims the bushes and the trees, and planteth a garden.
He girdeth his loins with strength, and strengtheneth his arms at the gym.
He layeth his hands to the hammer, and his hands hold the nails and the screwdriver.
He stretcheth out his hands to the poor; yea, he moveth families with the elders quorum and passeth along job opportunities.
He is not afraid of the weather for his household: for all the house is in good repair.
He picketh out coverings of cotton and fine knit; his clothing is denim or a spiffy black suit and tie.
His wife is known in the city, when she sitteth among the women to talk.
He starteth a business and buildeth it.  He delivers excellent goods and services to his customers.
Strength and honour are his clothing; and he shall rejoice in time to come.
He openeth his mouth with wisdom; and in his tongue is the law of kindness and integrity.
He looketh well to the ways of his business and employment, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
His children arise up, and call him awesome; his wife also, and she praiseth him.
Many sons have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Favour is deceitful, and rugged good looks are vain, but a man that feareth the Lord, he shall be praised.
Give him the fruit of his hands; and let his own works praise him on the news.

What would you add?

3 comments:

Rozy Lass said...

My dad is a virtuous man! This is wonderful, thanks for sharing. Still working on my husband, he's come along way.

Unknown said...

There is a male counterpart. Unfortunately, it is rarely taught. Yet, it is just as important as the description of Pro 31 woman.

Man of Noble Character
Reprove a wise man and he will love you. Pro 9:8
Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser, Teach a righteous man and he will increase his learning. Pro 9:9
The generous man will be prosperous, And he who waters will himself be watered. Pro 11:25
A good man will obtain favor from the LORD. Pro 12:2
A wise man is he who listens to counsel. Pro 12:15
A prudent man overlooks an insult. Pro 12:16
Every prudent man acts with knowledge. Pro13:16
He who walks with wise men will be wise. Pro 13:20
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children. Pro 13:22
The sensible man considers his steps. Proverbs 14:15
A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil. Pro 14:16
He who is slow to anger has great understanding. Pro 14:29
A man of understanding walks straight. Pro 15:21
What is desirable in a man is his kindness. Pro 19:22
A righteous man who walks in his integrity-- How blessed are his sons after him. Pro 20:7
A wise man scales the city of the mighty And brings down the stronghold in which they trust. Pro 21:22
A wise man is strong, And a man of knowledge increases power. Pro 24:5

Anonymous said...

my father is a virtuous man, and because of him, so i have become. its a bold claim, but i went through life for 20 years not really knowing about this concept in these terms. he just brought me up this way and i feel so blessed, at peace. i simply follow my heart and the example of my father and never deny it, never sway from the truth.