What does Proverbs 31:20 teach about the character of a virtuous woman? The Verse in View “She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.” (Proverbs 31:20) Key Words and Phrases • opens her arms – literal picture of welcoming embrace; no reluctance, no guarded posture • reaches out her hands – deliberate, voluntary action; she moves toward need, she doesn’t wait for it to come to her • the poor … the needy – any who lack resources, protection, or hope What We Learn About Her Character • Compassionate heart – Mercy is not an occasional mood but a settled disposition (cf. Colossians 3:12). • Active generosity – Her compassion immediately translates into practical help (James 2:15-17). • Openhanded stewardship – She views her goods as God-given tools for blessing others (Deuteronomy 15:11). • Readiness – “Opens” and “reaches” are present-tense verbs; kindness is her continual habit, not a special project. • Courage – Engaging poverty can be inconvenient or uncomfortable, yet she steps forward in faith (Isaiah 58:7-8). • Christ-like reflection – Her life mirrors the Lord who “came not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). How This Trait Fits the Larger Portrait • Balances industry (vv. 13-19) with mercy—she labors hard so abundance can overflow to others. • Reveals true fear of the LORD (v. 30). Reverence for God always issues in love for people (1 John 4:20-21). • Strengthens her household’s testimony—those blessed by her generosity rise up to call her blessed (v. 28). • Prepares her for eternal commendation—good works “follow” God’s servants (Revelation 14:13). Living It Out Today 1. Inventory resources—time, skills, funds, household items. Dedicate them to the Lord’s use. 2. Stay alert—listen for quiet needs in church, neighborhood, workplace. 3. Move first—send the text, make the meal, offer the ride before being asked. 4. Engage family—teach children to give, involve spouse in decisions, make service a shared rhythm. 5. Guard humility—generosity aims to lift others, not to showcase self (Matthew 6:3-4). Encouragement for Others • Single sisters—generosity is not limited by marital status; see Dorcas’s legacy (Acts 9:36). • Mothers of young children—small gestures count: sharing toys, baking extra bread, writing encouragement cards. • Older women—your example trains the next generation (Titus 2:3-5). • Men—though Proverbs 31 profiles a woman, the principle applies to all who fear God (Galatians 6:10). The virtuous woman’s open hands reveal an open heart—one shaped by the God who freely gives. |
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