What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:24? She makes linen garments “She makes linen garments…” (Proverbs 31:24a) •Her work begins with skillful production, not haphazard effort. Compare the orderly diligence of Proverbs 31:13, “She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands,” and the resourcefulness of verse 22, “She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple.” •Linen points to quality and durability; the woman invests in materials that last (cf. Acts 9:39, where Dorcas is remembered for the tunics and garments she made). •In a literal sense she weaves cloth; spiritually, she models faithful stewardship—turning raw blessings into something useful for others (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:2, “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful”). and sells them “…and sells them…” (Proverbs 31:24b) •Her enterprise moves beyond hobby to commerce. The Proverbs woman is not cloistered; she engages the marketplace as an extension of godly service (see Proverbs 31:18, “She sees that her gain is good”). •Profits are not an end in themselves but a means to bless. Titus 3:14 urges believers to “devote themselves to good works, meeting pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful.” •Honest business reflects the command of Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord…”—reminding us that marketplace integrity is worship. she delivers sashes “…she delivers sashes…” (Proverbs 31:24c) •Sashes were decorative yet functional, symbolizing readiness and beauty (cf. Isaiah 11:5, “Righteousness will be the belt around His hips”). •The action word “delivers” shows reliability. She fulfills promises, mirroring Psalm 15:4 where the righteous “keep their oaths even when it hurts.” •Her products enhance others’ appearance and utility, echoing 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” to the merchants “…to the merchants.” (Proverbs 31:24d) •She interacts confidently with professionals of trade. Like Lydia, “a dealer in purple cloth” who worshiped God and opened her home (Acts 16:14-15), she brings faith into economic circles. •Merchants appreciate craftsmanship; her reputation precedes her (cf. Proverbs 22:29, “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men”). •Engaging merchants broadens her influence, enabling resources to flow outward for family and community good (Proverbs 31:20, “She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy”). summary Proverbs 31:24 paints a picture of an industrious, trustworthy woman who transforms raw material into quality goods, carries them to market with integrity, and enlarges her sphere of blessing through honest commerce. Her example urges believers today to combine skill, diligence, and godly purpose—using our hands, heads, and hearts to serve the Lord and others in every corner of life, including the marketplace. |
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