31:1 King Lemuel is speculated to be King Solomon. Lemuel may have been a "pet name" Solomon's mother used when speaking to her son. Here she contemplates what important counsel she can give her son as he reigns. She grew him, she promised to raise him well.
31:2-3 She warned Solomon not to have a marriage which distracted him from his faith. Romantic or not, the partnerships we have on earth should be founded in faith. It is so easy for us to "go astray", to forget the commandments of God and the vows we make to him. Therefore, we must ensure that we surround ourselves (and attach ourselves) to people who make us better and help us to live in accordance with God's will.
31:4-7 The king is cautioned only to reign soberly. The consumption of alcohol impairs judgement and subsequently perverts justice.
31:8-9 His mother advises him to be a voice for the people who have none. We have a responsibility as humans (and especially when we are in positions of power or leadership) to advocate for natural human rights.
31:10 And then his mother begins to speak about the blessing of having a faithful wife (a wife faithful in marriage but also in her relationship with God). A virtuous marriage is worth more than wealth.
31:11 When two people are faithful and trustworthy to each other, their partnership prospers.
31:12 A virtuous relationship provides goodness to each person's heart and life; in addition to what our relationship with God provides, a loyal marriage provides the support and companionship, love and compassion, patience and encouragement that we all need to thrive.
31:13-14 A good spouse is productive and resourceful.
31:15 A good spouse is alert and active in caring for the family.
31:16 A good spouse looks for and recognizes good spaces and opportunities for their family. And when they are blessed with those spaces and opportunities they are productive within them, creating a nourishing environment for their family. They abound the blessings given by God, perpetuating His goodness to bring further joy to the family.
31:17 A good spouse is strong in faith and courage.
31:18 A good spouse is a light in the darkness; a beacon, and guide along the path of God's will.
31:19 A good spouse is ready and willing to reach out and work for the family's well-being.
31:20 A good spouse is gracious and generous, especially to those in need. The empathy of a good spouse influences and blesses the family while supporting God's children in need.
31:21 A good spouse plans and prepares to keep the family safe and warm. Their relationship with God allows them to perceive widely and prepare well for upcoming circumstances and possible events.
31:22 A good spouse is clothed in good faith and well cared for by the blessings of the Lord.
31:23-24 A spouse who supports their partner (in any way they can) ensures that their partner succeeds in their endeavors.
31:25 A good spouse is arrayed in strength and honor; joy is along their path.
31:26 A good spouse is wise and kind.
31:27 A good spouse is vigilant and productive.
31:28-29 Children raised by virtuous parents recognize their parents as blessed. So also is a virtuous spouse recognized by the other.
31:30 Choose a spouse who is faithful and kind and wise; it is more important to choose a virtuous spouse than a charming or vain person.
31:31 Each spouse should be recognized and appreciated by the other for their efforts.
