Proverbs 31

THE WAY OF WISDOM Exploring Proverbs 31 g A Women’s Bible Study by Sue LeBoutillier Copyright © 2026 Sue LeBouƟllier g The Way of Wisdom g GreeƟngs Friend, Welcome to our Women’s Bible Study enƟtled The Way of Wisdom. In this six-week study we will not only explore Proverbs 31 but we’ll enjoy a mini-study of the enƟre book of Proverbs as well. Many ChrisƟans look to Proverbs 31 as a blueprint of godly living for wives. I wouldn’t necessarily disagree, but this study should uncover a broader picture. You’ll find that this chapter in Proverbs should inspire all women, not only wives. In fact, I would go as far as to say that all people, regardless of their gender, will find quite a bit of applicaƟon and wisdom for their lives tucked in this chapter. However, this is a Women’s Bible Study, so the truths we discover will be directed to women and their unique lives. The main theme of the Proverbs is the fear of the Lord and it’s impact on one’s life. It is the fear of the Lord that moƟvates us to discern between wisdom and folly. Wisdom leads us to acƟvely align our acƟons and aƫtudes with God’s character and His plan for the people He has created. Foolishness, on the other hand, will lead us to a life opposed to God. These are the concepts we learn from the Proverbs. It’s my sincere hope that this Bible Study will bless you and give you not only a greater Biblical understanding of Proverbs 31, but a fresh overview of the book of Proverbs as a whole and what it means to walk in The Way of Wisdom. May the Lord bless you abundantly, Sue LeBoutillier sue@lifebibleministry.com The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Prov. 1:7)

First Step: Whether you’re doing this study on your own or parƟcipaƟng in a group, the first thing you’ll want to do is watch the Session #1 video. You can find that video at www.lifebibleministry.com/womens-studies That introductory teaching will give you a good perspecƟve of the content of this Bible Study as well as an introducƟon on the book of Proverbs as a whole. You’ll find some prompted quesƟons for taking notes on page 5 with addiƟonal space for note-taking on page 6. AŌer you have watched the Session #1 video, you’ll find QuesƟons for Discussion on page7. Those quesƟons can be a useful resource for group discussion or just for your personal study. Next Step: AŌer the Session #1 video, you’ll be ready to begin your personal study for Week 2. Each of these weekly lessons is organized in a six-day-a-week format where you will be instructed to read one chapter of the Proverbs and then have one page of further study suggesƟons and quesƟons. This porƟon is intended to be completed independently before you watch the next session. If you read all six assigned chapters each week, you will come to chapter 31 right at the end of this study and will have digested all of the Proverbs. I encourage you to pick up a notebook or perhaps a special ediƟon of the Proverbs* for use during this study. NoƟng repeƟƟve phrases or topics can be an important part of studying Scripture, so I want to make some suggesƟons for your Proverbs reading. · You might want to begin by underlining each reference to the fear of the Lord. · Mark words or phrases which are repeated. For example, a “W” for wise or wisdom, a “$” for references to money. How to Use this Study Guide

· Then create your own notaƟons for concepts that resonate with you: your words, diligence, laziness or sloth, pride, use of money, marriage, etc. This study guide might handle differently than others in the Women of the Word series because this is more of a topical Bible study rather than a verse-by-verse study. Much of the homework will look back to the Scriptures and topics taught in the previous video session rather than look forward to the topics that will be taught. I think you’ll catch on quickly. Also, the QuesƟons for Discussion at the end of each week’s assign- ments will relate directly to the next video session rather than the independent study you’ve just completed during the week. In other words, the quesƟons may not make a lot of sense unƟl you watch the next video session. But the rouƟne should feel the same as other studies you’ve done: ¨ Watch the Session #1 video ¨ Use the QuesƟons for Discussion in your group and pray together about applying the passages to your lives. ¨ Complete your independent study for Week #2 ¨ Watch the Session #2 video ¨ Repeat the process as you do all the weeks in your Study Guide. One last reminder — be sure to approach each of the above steps with prayer and a humble heart. The purpose of this study isn’t to simply gather informaƟon, but to yield to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives to give us understanding and transformaƟon. *As of this publicaƟon, there is a wonderful liƩle paperback contain- ing the enƟre book of Proverbs called the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal. It’s printed by Crossway and you can search for it online or check your local bookstore. It’s a reasonable price and has plenty of room for notes. I think you’ll be happy to use it during your daily Proverbs reading.

Complete these sentences with insights shared in the Session #1 introducƟon video: · The book of Proverbs is a collecƟon of sayings found in the ____________________________ secƟon of our Old Testament. · The primary author of the Proverbs is ______________________. · The main purpose of the book of Proverbs is listed in the first few verses of chapter one. Mark this passage in a way that makes sense to you: V.2 To know wisdom and instrucƟon, to understand words of insight, V.3 to receive instrucƟon in wise dealing, in righteousness, jusƟce, and equity; V.4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discreƟon to the youth. V.5 Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance, V.6 to understand a proverb and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles. · The main theme of the enƟre book of Proverbs is considered to be: ________________________________________________. · The main theme of the first nine chapters of Proverbs is the contrast between _________________ and _________________. · Those two contrasƟng ideas are personified oŌen in the book of Proverbs by two ________________. Notes from Session #1 Video — Introduction

_______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Notes from Session #1 — Introduction

Questions for Discussion from Session #1 1. If you were one of those 100 people interviewed on the street and asked about your thoughts on Proverbs 31, what would your answer have been? 2. Can you share one Proverb that comes to mind which would prove the point that they are short, memorable sayings. 3. Part of the Webster’s dicƟonary definiƟon of wisdom is the exercise of sound judgment, either in avoiding evils or aƩempƟng good. What would you add to that definiƟon? 4. Wisdom doesn’t just appear like grey hair. Proverbs 2 expresses some of the acƟon required on our part to walk in the way of wisdom. Read Proverbs 2:1-5 and discuss what type of effort is required and give at least one real life example of that effort. 5. Read Proverbs 2:6. Discuss the real source of wisdom. 6. Have you ever struggled with the phrase “the fear of the Lord?” If so, how has your understanding changed following today’s teaching?

Since the format of this study is topical rather than sequenƟal, these two pages provide a simple guide to help you know in which session each of these verses are taught. 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. Session 2 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. Session 5 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. Session 5 13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. Session 3 14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. Session 4 15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and porƟons for her maidens. Session 4 16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. Session 3 17 She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. Session 3 18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. Session 4 19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle. Session 3 Proverbs 31:10-31 — Table of Contents

20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. Session 5 21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet. Session 3 22 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Session 5 23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land. Session 5 24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant. Session 4 25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the Ɵme to come. Session 3 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Session 5 27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Session 4 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Session 6 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Session 6 30 Charm is deceiƞul, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Session 6 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Session 6 a READ Proverbs chapter 1 The fear of the Lord is menƟoned 18 Ɵmes in the book of Proverbs. In addiƟon to what you already read in chapter one, look up these other six references and note anything these passages add to your understanding of the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 10:27 Proverbs 14:26 Proverbs 15:33 Proverbs 19:23 Proverbs 22:4 Proverbs 28:14 Day 1: Whoever listens to me [wisdom] will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster. (Prov. 1:33) Week Two Studies a READ Proverbs chapter 2 Proverbs chapter two begins with an exhortaƟon to seek wisdom. Once again, we find it is the older generaƟon telling those you are seƫng their course in life what the most beneficial path will be. From Proverbs 2:5-17 · List some of the benefits a person would expect to find by seeking wisdom. · List some ills that a person could potenƟally be delivered from by obtaining and applying wisdom in their life. Read Jude 1:21 and consider how this New Testament phrase aligns with the fear of the Lord. (You might want to write it out here or in your journal.) Day 2: For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Prov. 2:6) a READ Proverbs chapter 3 Proverbs 3:5-6 is a very popular passage – it may even be a life verse for some. This is the first menƟon of trust in the book of Proverbs. · How would you say trusƟng in the Lord and fearing the Lord are similar ideas? How might they be slightly different? Read Proverbs 3:5-6 and Proverbs 3:25-26 together as if the verses between them don’t exist. The NIV renders the later, “...have no fear of sudden disaster…” I’m sure you can think of several Ɵmes in your life that you were concerned, perhaps even worried about a sudden disaster, but the Scriptures tell us to have no fear. There ARE people for whom sudden disaster will be a reality. Read Proverbs 6:12-15 and explain the contrast between those people compared to the passage referenced above. How can pracƟcing ‘the fear of the Lord’, or ‘trusƟng in the Lord’, or ‘being on God’s team’ prepare you for a greater sense of stability when circumstances might seem frightening? Day 3: Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding. (Prov. 3:13) a READ Proverbs chapter 4 What are some of the contrasts that you noted as you read through the first six chapters of Proverbs? (Example: The way of wisdom (4:11) and the way of evil (4:14). Read Isaiah 5:20-21 which speaks of people entrapped in moral confusion. It sounds just like a regular dose of nightly news doesn’t it? We have SO much confusion in our world. · What does v.21 suggest as the root of that confusion? · Compare that with Proverbs 3:7. What does the Proverb give as an anƟdote for being wise in our own eyes? Day 4: The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. (Prov. 4:18) a READ Proverbs chapter 5 Proverbs 3:7 admonished us to be not wise in our own eyes. In other words — don’t be proud. Read these addiƟonal Proverbs and consider what they add to the call toward humility instead of pride: Proverbs 11:2 Proverbs 16:18-19 Proverbs 28:26 Proverbs 29:23 Day 5: For a man's ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths. (Prov. 5:21) a READ Proverbs chapter 6 In preparaƟon for the video teaching for Session #2, read Proverbs 31:1-9 which are instrucƟons from a mother to a son. · Note the number of Ɵmes the words king or ruler are used in her speech: ____________. · What does that lead you to believe about the current or future posiƟon of her son? · What acƟviƟes is mom cauƟoning her son about in these verses? · Why do you think those are areas of concern? · In v.8-9, what was she admonishing him to pay aƩenƟon to? Day 6: My son, keep your father's commandment, and forsake not your mother's teaching. (Prov. 6:20)

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Session #2

Questions for Discussion from Session #2 1. Do you agree or disagree with the Oxford study that described the health benefits of women gathering together on a regular basis? 2. Read LeviƟcus 10:9 to gain an understanding of God’s guidelines for priests. Then read Isaiah 28:7 for an example of their later disobedience. How did their disobedience in the area of strong drink negaƟvely affect the whole community? 3. Read Ephesians 5:15-18. How does the Apostle’s words bring a similar warning in a more modern tone? 4. Before watching this message, did you view yourself as a leader? Do you view yourself as a leader now? Share with your group some of the people that you regularly influence. 5. Sue said that Proverbs 31 is a picture of wisdom in acƟon – what it looks like when wisdom rules a woman’s life. Share about a person in your life that has been an example of wisdom in acƟon. 6. Before we even begin studying the character qualiƟes found in Proverbs 31, what character qualiƟes would you say that you want the Lord to grow in you?

a READ Proverbs chapter 7 Proverbs 7 is the perfect follow up to the mother’s advice given in the first half of Proverbs 31. Did you noƟce both chapters are addressed to ‘my son‘? On a natural level, chapter seven is an appeal for a youth to apply the wisdom that would spare him from destrucƟve relaƟonships. And we’re reminded that small choices make a big difference. · Go back to Proverbs 5:8 and list the two specific instrucƟons given to the young man for safety. · In Proverbs 7:8-9, explain how the youth choose… … the wrong place to be: ...the wrong Ɵme to be there: There are broader applicaƟons for us than merely avoiding adultery. The broader message is avoiding Woman Folly in our lives. · What small choices in your life might take you near the tempta- Ɵons of foolishness, which might compromise your embrace of wisdom? Week Three Studies Day 1: Keep my teaching as the apple of your eye... write them on the tablet of your heart. (Prov. 7:2-3) a READ Proverbs chapter 8 AŌer the previous chapter expressed the warnings of folly, chapter eight reminds us that wisdom isn't difficult to find, it's actually quite accessible. · List some of the ways that you have observed wisdom to be easy to find and follow in your life. · Describe some of the ‘noise’ in your life that may be concealing the voice of wisdom and cause you to have to seek harder. In Proverbs 8:13 we’re introduced to a fresh way to think about the fear of the Lord — to love what God loves and hate what he hates. · List those things that the Lord hates from this verse: · What are some of the things you know that the Lord loves: Day 2: For wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her. (Prov. 8:11) a READ Proverbs chapter 9 Proverbs 9:1-8 gives a contrast between the invitaƟon from Woman Wisdom and the previous invitaƟon from Woman Folly. · Compare this passage with Proverbs 7:10-23 and write a summary of the two invitaƟons that are always before us. Proverbs 9:10 provides the final fear of the Lord bookend for the first nine chapters. We’ve learned a lot about what it means to walk in the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:13-18 follows that by giving one final plea for the reader to turn away from folly. · Read these three passages, then write a sentence that describes the desƟnaƟon of those who chose not to heed the warning: Proverbs 7:25-27 Proverbs 23:17-18 MaƩhew 7:13 Day 3: Leave your simple ways and live, and walk in the way of insight. (Prov. 9:6) a READ Proverbs chapter 10 Today we’re beginning our trek through chapters 10-30. Remember, those are the sayings without strong organizaƟon. I encourage you to review the suggesƟons on p.3-4 of this study guide and prepare to log certain themes that the Lord brings to your aƩenƟon. I’ll start us off — one theme I noƟced in this chapter is our words. I counted 16 Ɵmes that the author used a reference to: mouth, lips, babbling, slander, etc. It seems that there is almost an equal amount of posiƟve references compared to negaƟve ones. · What are some of the potenƟal posiƟve outcomes of the speech of the righteous — the one who fears the Lord? · What are some of the negaƟve outcomes? On another note, Proverbs 10:27 (as well as Proverbs 9:11) seem like a promise for anyone who has really embraced wisdom in their life. Yet we all know people whose years have been cut far too short. Consider how we are to handle verses like this. Is this a promise? Is it a probability? How would you explain this? Day 4: The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom...the lips of the righteous know what is acceptable. (Prov. 10:31-32) a READ Proverbs chapter 11 Let’s revisit a theme from Proverbs 31:4 “...it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink.” In our previous teaching, I brought out some of the obvious warnings regarding the over-use of alcohol, or other mind-altering substances. You discussed addiƟonal passages in your small group. Why bring it up again today? First, when I was young it seemed the church went out of its way to condemn the use of all drink. Now, I observe ChrisƟans go our of their way to defend their right to enjoy all drink. Secondly, we’re studying Proverbs 31 and the opening verses sent us in the direcƟon of this topic. Third, many verses in Proverbs will speak to this same issue. Let’s begin by reading two such passages and note what they add to the subject: Proverbs 20:1 Proverbs 23:29-35 Most ChrisƟans who read those passages will think, “well, that’s not me. I won’t linger over wine to the extent described.” But, coupled with what we studied in chapter 31, this verses should cause us to ask ourselves some quesƟons. · If I do choose to drink occasionally, what guardrails do I have in place to ensure my life stays pleasing to the Lord? · Is there someone in my life who struggles with alcohol who may be adversely affected by my acƟons? What will I do to ensure their safety in this area? Day 5: When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. (Prov. 11:2) a READ Proverbs chapter 12 Today we’re going to prepare for our next teaching session in this study. I’d like you to consider these three verses from Proverbs 31 — You can either write them out or just note some highlights. Proverbs 31:13 Proverbs 31:16 Proverbs 31:19 What common themes do these verses share? What character qualiƟes come to mind when you read these verses? List a few characterisƟcs that would describe the opposite of what you read in those three verses. Day 6: Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense. (Prov. 12:11)

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Session #3

Questions for Discussion from Session #3 1. Do you agree or disagree with the idea that many of the virtues we will study in Proverbs 31 can also be relevant for other relaƟonships like friendships or business partnerships? 2. Share one area of your life that you feel the Holy Spirit is speaking to you about being more diligent and not caving to laziness or procrasƟnaƟon. 3. Suggest one posiƟve way that a mother could insƟll a more posiƟve work ethic in her children to promote diligence. 4. Have you ever claimed to be a free spirit in some area of your life? How would you compare that approach with the virtue of diligence from a Biblical perspecƟve? 5. Contentment is a learned virtue just like diligence is a learned virtue. Read Philippians 4:12-13. Discuss how the Apostle Paul learned to be content through his own life circumstances. Dis- cuss how your own current circumstances have the poten- Ɵal to teach you contentment. 6. One important theme in Proverbs 31 is the partnership in marriage, but all of our partnerships are important as well. Read Proverbs 13:20 and discuss it’s applicaƟon in your life.

a READ Proverbs chapter 13 Our two most recent themes have been diligence and contentment. We’ll conƟnue to find these two themes almost daily in our reading through the Proverbs — for example, in verse 4 of today’s passage. Read the following passages that refer to these contrasts. Note any addiƟonal insights or direcƟon the Lord speaks to you. Proverbs 6:6-11 Proverbs 12:24 Proverbs 13:4 Proverbs 20:13 Proverbs 21:5 Proverbs 24:30-34 Day 1: Week Four Studies The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life. (Prov. 13:14) a READ Proverbs chapter 14 The book of Proverbs isn’t the only part of the Bible that speaks to the virtue of diligence. Read the following New Testament passages and note how the Apostle Paul also exhorted believers to be diligent in their relaƟonal lives as well as their spiritual lives. 1 Corinthians 15:58 GalaƟans 6:9-10 Colossians 3:23-24 Read Titus 2:3-5 and note how this passage also agrees with the Proverb’s guidance toward diligence. In your own words, write a one sentence comparison between the diligent and the sluggard (or lazy person) that may be simple enough for even a child to understand. Day 2: In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. (Prov. 14:26) a READ Proverbs chapter 15 AŌer considering diligence, let’s focus on the second virtue that was highlighted in the Session #3 teaching — contentment. Read these Proverbs that speak directly to the virtue of contentment and note any addiƟonal insights or direcƟon the Lord speaks to you. Proverbs 3:5-6 Proverbs 15:16-17 Proverbs 16:8-9 Proverbs 19:23 Proverbs 30:8-9 What area of your life requires the virtue of contentment most? Which of the above verses provides encouragement for that area of your life? How so? Day 3: A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Prov. 15:1) a READ Proverbs chapter 16 Before we leave the subject of contentment there are several gems in the New Testament worth considering. Read these passages and consider how they speak to areas of your life that may have goƩen out of balance on the issue of contentment. MaƩhew 6:25, 33 Luke 12:15 1 Timothy 6:6-10 Read Hebrews 13:5-6. How is this verse a pracƟcal anƟdote for the excessive sort of diligence that can culƟvate pride and other destrucƟve aƫtudes. Most of the above passages assumed overworking due to a desire for more — especially in the area of wealth. Some of our workaholic or perfecƟonist tendencies, however, might be rooted in different ambiƟons. Consider the following desires that might apply to an area of your life and how to apply the Way of Wisdom to those areas. p WanƟng to appear more put together than others p Desiring to receive praise from others p Needing to maintain complete control over your family Day 4: Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. (Prov. 16:3) a READ Proverbs chapter 17 We’ll spend one last day pondering the issue of contentment, because it’s possible for a woman to walk in acceptance of a maƩer in her life without truly being content with the maƩer. When that happens her heart isn’t truly at rest, it is merely resigned to the situaƟon. Contentment walks hand in hand with rest — the condiƟon of a woman who truly trusts in God’s goodness in her life. TrusƟng the Lord means resƟng in the Lord. The book of James is someƟmes referred to as The Proverbs of the New Testament due to it’s frequent guidance on how to live wisely in this world. Read James 1:2-5. · How do these verses dovetail with the virtue of contentment? · What is the emoƟon in v.2 that James suggests should be our response to trials? Now read Proverbs 14:30 as well as Proverbs 17:22. · What is the physical benefit we are to receive from having a joyful heart (a heart that trusts the Lord with our circumstances? Day 5: A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (Prov. 17:22) a READ Proverbs chapter 18 Before we move forward in Proverbs 31, let’s review the six verses we focused on related to diligence and contentment. Simply review these verses and note anything you feel the Lord has been showing you this week that He would have you act upon. v.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. v.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle. v.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. v.17 She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. v.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet. v.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the Ɵme to come. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into and is safe. (Prov. 18:10) Day 6:

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Session #4

Questions for Discussion from Session #4 1. In Session #4 Sue defined home as ‘your people and your space.’ In what way does that diverge from a tradiƟonal view of home? In what way does this definiƟon encompass all women? 2. Read Proverbs 14:1. In what ways do you think that a woman who refuses to surrender to God’s order (who is foolish) destroys her home? 3. Do you think there is someƟmes a natural response for women to bristle at the idea of responsibility as it relates to their homes? If so, why? 4. The wise woman of Proverbs 31 does not eat the bread of idleness (v.27b). Idleness could be the result of procrasƟnaƟon. Is there some area of your life that you feel the Lord is nudging you to stop procrasƟnaƟng, take responsibility, and get the job done? 5. Verse 27a could really be an overall theme for this session – She looks well to the ways of her household. Does being an overseer or manager of your home inspire you or inƟmidate you? What do you think the intenƟon of the writer of this Proverb was? 6. Where are you on the spectrum of creaƟng wealth or conserving wealth at this season of your life?

a READ Proverbs chapter 19 Our most recent virtues have been responsibility and reliability as they pertain to a woman’s relaƟonship to her home — her people and her space. We framed these two virtues in this way: ¨ responsibility — our obligaƟon to duty — what we see from our side ¨ reliability — delivering consistent results — what others see or feel from their perspecƟve. Proverbs 31:27 says, “She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” In the Bible, eaƟng bread is oŌen a term used for indulging in something — either good or bad. In this verse it’s obviously a negaƟve thing. · What are some areas, related to your home, that you find your- self tempted to eat the bread of idleness? · Why do you think this type of idleness is appealing to you? Read Proverbs 6:6-11. What do these verses add to the message of responsibility? Day 1: Week Five Studies Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense. (Prov. 19:11) a READ Proverbs chapter 20 Proverbs 31:15 says, “She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and porƟons for her maidens.” This verse not only has responsibility in view, but reliability as well. Obviously her household and her maidens are the ones who benefit when she embraces her responsibiliƟes. · List the people in your world who benefit when you embrace your responsibility for your home (your household). · Do you think those people consider you reliable? Why or why not? · What changes would you like to ask the Lord to help you make? · The Woman of Wisdom had to make sacrifices in order to fulfill her calling — specifically rising early. What sacrifices are you required to make at this season of life in order for you to care for your household? Day 2: The righteous who walks in his integrity — blessed are his children after him! (Prov. 20:7) a READ Proverbs chapter 21 We menƟoned sacrifices yesterday that would enable us to become more reliable. If we view these through the lens of our own comfort they may feel cumbersome or unfair. But, if we consider the pro- found, lasƟng affect that small sacrifices may have on those we love, suddenly they are well worth the effort. Parents who walk in the wisdom of reliability will create mental and emoƟonal health and stability in their household — their children. I’m not sure there is a greater legacy one can leave than stability. This might be a delicate subject since you may not have been raised in an emoƟonally reliable home. But it is Woman Folly who enƟces us to dwell on our vicƟmhood — Woman Wisdom cheers us forward to serve others and create what we ourselves did not enjoy. Give yourself an honest leƩer grade in the following areas that characterize a reliable home. Then consider each associated Bible passage that underscores that aspect of reliability. q I’m generally cheerful around my home (even in the morning). Proverbs 15:13 q I’m known for treaƟng everyone fairly. Proverbs 11:1 q When I say that I’ll do something, my people know that I will. MaƩhew 5:37 q My people know that I will laugh or cry with them, as needed. Romans 12:15 q My people know they are a priority in my life. Titus 2:4-5 q My people know that I love the Lord and aƩempt to serve Him. MaƩhew 22:37 Circle one area where you would like God to help you improve. Day 3: To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. (Prov. 21:3) a READ Proverbs chapter 22 As you’ve read through the Proverbs, I’m sure you’ve discovered many passages that have caused you to consider the affect your words have on others around you. Our speech can either add to our reliability or detract from it. Let’s take this opportunity to review a few of these passages from the perspecƟve of communicaƟon within our homes. Note how these passages inspire you toward greater reliability with your words. Proverbs 11:12 Proverbs 12:18 Proverbs 12:25 Proverbs 15:1 Proverbs 15:7 Proverbs 16:24 Proverbs 17:27-28 Proverbs 21:23 Proverbs 25:11 Day 4: Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge. (Prov. 22:17) a READ Proverbs chapter 23 In Sesson #3 we focused on diligence as one of the traits of a virtuous woman. But diligence, removed from the hand of wisdom and put into the hand of pride, can easily become a vice, leading to a workaholic tendency or perfecƟonism, stripping us of rest. In Session #4 we met v.18 and v.24 which highlighted the virtuous woman’s merchandizing. This brought us to the conversaƟon about wealth in terms of a woman either creaƟng or conserving the house- hold wealth. Review those two verses menƟoned above and consider whether they represent a command, an ideal, or merely an observaƟon. · How might this passage bring clarity to the quesƟon, “should a mother work outside the home?” There are many warnings in Scripture that point to acquiring wealth as a noble trait, as long as it remains in the hands of wisdom. Placed into the hands of pride, it can become an ugly task master and no longer be a virtuous trait. Review these Scriptures that encourage us to stay within the path of wisdom regarding wealth. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 Proverbs 23:4-5 Luke 12:15-21 1 Timothy 6:17-18 Day 5: Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. (Prov. 23:4) a READ Proverbs chapter 24 Before we move forward in Proverbs 31, let’s review the five verses we considered this week related to responsibility and reliability. Simply review these verses and note anything you feel the Lord has been showing you this week that He would have you act upon. v.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness v.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and porƟons for her maidens. v.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. v.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant. v.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. Day 6: By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established. (Prov. 24:3)

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Session #5

Questions for Discussion from Session #5 1. We focused on the virtue of kindness in this session. Do you generally find it easier to act with kindness inside your home or outside your home? Why do you think that might be? 2. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soŌ answer turns away wrath.” Share a situaƟon where that statement was proven true in your life. 3. The second half of the above verse says, “...but a harsh word sƟrs up anger.” The choices between a soŌ answer and a harsh word are similar to the choices we face every day between wisdom and folly. Discuss some effecƟve strategies that would help a woman steer clear of harsh words. 4. Do you agree or disagree with the Harvard study that people married for a long Ɵme exercised perseverance? 5. Read Proverbs 31:11. Discuss some ways a wife can establish this type of trust in her marriage relaƟonship. 6. The example of MarƟn and KaƟe revealed challenges we all face as husband and wife. We have different fears and weaknesses which require understanding and paƟence. Sue highlighted the role of humor in the Luther’s marriage, which is a great strategy. What other traits can a husband and wife develop to help them persevere in healthy ways?

a READ Proverbs chapter 25 The first virtue that was highlighted in Session #5 was kindness. I think it’s easy to agree that every person who follows Jesus should display kindness — both inside our homes and outside. We saw in v.20 and v.26 the repeƟƟon of the work of the hands and the addiƟon of the work of the mouth. With our hands we are able to serve others and with our mouth we are able to bless and impart wisdom. This is fascinaƟng because in the New Testament, spiritual giŌs are oŌen classified in those two categories — speaking and serving. · Read 1 Peter 4:10-11. What does Peter express as the most important instrucƟon for how we are to use these giŌs? · Read Romans 12:4-8. List the giŌs you find there in the following two categories below: Speaking Serving All of us need to be ready to serve with both our hands and our words; but which category would you say you are primarily giŌed? Day 1: Week Six Studies A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. (Prov. 25:11) a READ Proverbs chapter 26 Proverbs 31:26 says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” The two characterisƟcs that describe this woman are wisdom and kindness. We’ve been focusing on wisdom throughout this enƟre study, so let’s spend one more day studying kindness. Kindness doesn’t necessarily mean being nice and it’s not superficial. It is not used to seek approval or passively accept a bad situaƟon. True kindness is honest, it isn’t afraid of difficult conversaƟons and it’s willing to set necessary boundaries. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LÊٗ require of you — but to do jusƟce, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” · Underline the three virtues required by God in that verse above. Write them here. · What are some ways in which you observe God to be both kind and just at the same Ɵme in His dealings with us? · What are some ways in which we can display those same characterisƟcs in dealing with other people? Day 2: For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there Is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. (Prov. 26:20) a READ Proverbs chapter 27 Our next few days of study will focus on marriage relaƟonships. The probability that a woman will marry at some point in her life is high. The further probability that she may either give birth to, raise, or nurture children is also high. But if a woman does neither, that doesn’t mean Proverbs 31 is of no pracƟcal use. The biographies in our teaching sessions should help highlight that point. If a woman does marry her husband will likely become the closest of all relaƟonships. And since the context of Proverbs 31 is choosing a partner, we’ll begin with a few pieces of advice along with supporƟng Scriptures that offer some wisdom in the area of choosing well. Read these passages and note what the Lord shows you and/or how you might be able to inspire others in their choosing. ¨ Pray for wisdom in the choosing: James 1:5 ¨ Choose a believer in Jesus: 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 ¨ Examine their character: GalaƟans 5:22-24 ¨ Seek godly counsel: Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22 Day 3: The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it. (Prov. 27:12) a READ Proverbs chapter 28 One thing we’ve learned in this study is that the Proverbs are not fixed formulas or guarantees that describe how life will always work. Rather, they are guiding principles or probabiliƟes that demonstrate where a life of wisdom will lead someone. Even so, aŌer following all godly advice and choosing our partners well, we can encounter many challenges in our marriages — some are outside our control — so we will focus on those challenges that are within our control. Keeping the virtue of kindness in view, let’s consider what the Prov- erbs say about our aƫtudes which eventually surface in our words. There are four Proverbs that we really dislike meeƟng as we read through the book. Read these verses and list the common trait of which they all speak: ___________________________ Proverbs 21:9 Proverbs 21:19 Proverbs 25:24 Proverbs 27:15 Those passages represent the opposite of the virtue of kindness found in v.26. Consider the following statements and check those that you feel the Lord would have you improve upon in your marriage. q I don’t have to win every argument. q I don’t have to correct him every Ɵme he mis-speaks. q I can pause before I share my opinion so my tone is kinder. q I can learn to overlook small annoyances. q I can learn to appreciate his personality and strengths that are unlike mine. q I can learn to empathize with his weakness, knowing that I have my own to deal with. Day 4: Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity. (Prov. 28:14) a READ Proverbs chapter 29 Now that we’ve studied about our aƫtudes and words in marriage, there are two more areas for study today that correspond with our acƟons. I’ll summarize these areas into a phrase that goes like this: “She does him good and she meets his needs.” In v.11, the ESV translated the Hebrew using the word trust, and the NIV used the phrase full confidence. Both are excellent translaƟons and give us something to consider. Whether you’re currently married or not, answer these quesƟons with the ideal of the Proverbs 31 woman in mind. · In what ways can a wife nurture trust that would help their partnership to flourish? · What pracƟcal things might a wife do that would enable her husband to have full confidence in her and have no lack of gain? If you are married... · What is one thing you want to improve upon in the above areas? · What leƩer grade would you give yourself in the area of inƟmacy with your husband? Is there something the Lord has shown you as you’ve considered the ideal of the Proverbs 31 woman? Day 5: The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. (Prov. 29:25) a READ Proverbs chapter 30 & 31 We have one last video session in order to complete all of the verses in Proverbs 31. Let’s simply review the six verses we considered this week related to kindness and perseverance and note anything you feel the Lord has been showing that He would have you act upon. v.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. v.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. v.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land. v.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. v.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. v.22 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Day 6: Every word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. (Prov. 30:5)

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Session #6

Questions for Discussion from Session #6 1. In our lives, there are many things we simply have no control over. But there are many areas where we have total control, such as our words and our Ɵme. Discuss other areas of our lives where we have complete control to choose wisdom. 2. Discuss the saying that Sue shared: “age doesn’t guarantee wis- dom, but wisdom cannot fully mature without age.” 3. Read Proverbs 31:30. How does this verse, along with the above phrase (#2), encourage you about growing older. 4. In what way has your study of Proverbs helped you to stand against the foolish ideas of our current culture? 5. Share two of the qualiƟes you believe to be most important that make the woman in Proverbs 31 virtuous? 6. How can the characterisƟcs of the virtuous woman be pracƟced by everyone, not just wives or mothers? Give an example. 7. Name one of the virtues from this study that you want the Lord to develop in you to a greater degree and explain why.

RĊċĊėĊēĈĊĘ ESV Bible verses: Scripture quotaƟons are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. NIV Bible verses: Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New InternaƟonal Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

The following WOW Bible Studies wriƩen by Sue LeBouƟllier are available at www.lifebibleministry.com. · Genesis — Divine Design, From Eden to Egypt · Exodus — Divine Deliverance, From Egypt to Sinai · Numbers —The Wilderness Way, From Sinai to the Jordan · Joshua —The Path of Promise, From the Jordan into Canaan · Judges — A Time of Turning · Ruth — Walking with My Redeemer · 1 Samuel — The Coming King · 2 Samuel — The Reigning King · 1&2 Kings (Part One) — Solomon and the House of the Lord · 1&2 Kings (Part Two) — Learning from Leaders · Proverbs 31 — The Way of Wisdom · Esther — God’s Hidden Work from the Shadows · Jonah —The Call of Compassion · The Way of Jesus — The Sermon on the Mount from MaƩhew · Mark— Following Jesus · Simply Jesus — The “I AMs” of Christ in the Gospel of John · Acts — Walking in the Spirit, The First Days of the Last Days · GalaƟans — Finding Grace in a Demanding World · Ephesians — Finding Purpose in a Confused World · Philippians — Finding Joy in a Disjointed World · Colossians — Finding Stability in a Changing World · Titus — While We Wait · James — Real Faith for Daily Life · 1&2 Peter — Hope, Holiness and Humility in a HosƟle World · 1,2,3 John — Light, Love and Logic, Lessons from the Apostle John Women of the Word Bible Studies