Proverbs 31:24
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Proverbs 31:24
This verse emphasizes commercial enterprise: “She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.” It portrays entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and trade. Linen and girdles were valuable commodities, indicating skilled labor with market demand. The woman is not confined to solitary domestic tasks but participates in the marketplace, earning income for the family. The line continues the theme of a well-rounded life of work, skill, and economic activity that sustains households and contributes to the local economy.
Work as vocation is a consistent biblical motif. The verse illustrates legitimate, honorable labor that serves others, aligns with fair trade, and honors God through responsible stewardship. It reinforces the dignity of a woman’s economic contribution as part of the divine design for human flourishing.
Practical steps: develop marketable crafts or business ideas, build networks with merchants and customers, and pursue fair compensation for work. If you’re a maker, consider selling your goods locally or online, and maintain ethical standards in pricing and production. Encourage your household to diversify income streams where possible, while maintaining balance with family responsibilities.
Cross-References: Exodus 35:29; Proverbs 3:9-10; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Luke 19:13