Proverbs 31

“Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy” (v9).  The last chapter of proverbs challenges both young men and young women to envision godly adulthood as being others-centered.  The first verses warn young men against wasting their strength and energy on wild living.  Instead, godly men use their power to stand up “for the rights” (v8,9) of those who are hurting, vulnerable, and poor.  Similarly, mature women work hard (v10-19) to provide not just for their own families, but for “the needy” (v20).  

“Strength and dignity are her clothing” (v25). As Jesus showed us, true strength is the willingness to love and serve others.