Thursday, March 22, 2012

Portrait of an Ideal Husband?

Most of Proverbs 31 is an eloquent poem in praise of what one ancient near eastern sage calls the "ideal" woman or wife. The poem includes some surprises for those who expect the ideal woman of the Bible to be docile and meek:

She picks out a field and acquires it;
from her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She girds herself with strength;
She exerts her arms with vigor.
She enjoys the profit from her dealings. (Prov 31:16-18a)


Gary Tatro, CBS Class of 2012, offers his "take" on a "Portrait of an Ideal Husband," based on his study of the Book of Proverbs this year:

When one finds a wise husband
his value is far beyond any earthly thing.

A wife's prize is her husband's faithful and
reliable heart that pines for her above all earthly things.

He is kind and compassionate to all,
even the beast of the fields rejoice in him.

He is hardworking,
tilling his own land to provide food in season and out of season.

Happy is the family of a wise man whose way is illuminated by integrity
whose steps are not directed by ill-gotten gains.

A wise husband is generous,
and despises not the hungry.

He is truthful and what he tell you can be assured is true.

A wise husband is not a jealous man.

He has a positive outlook on life
and is a constant strength to her and those around him.

Happy is the woman whose husband avoids excesses
her home will be the abode of peace and prosperity.

He uses words to calm wrath and not give it strength.

His words are soothing and healing.

 A wise husband can keep a confidence.

His honesty will be rewarded and richly blessed.

He seeks to calm the storms of life
and prevent damage.

Wiser is a patient man who rules over his temper
than a warrior who takes a city.

A wise husband has control of his temper
and doesn't let his anger be victorious over him.

He is forgiving
and slow to anger.

Wise is a man who is willing to be corrected
and listen to counsel.

His humility lifts up his wife and children.

Happy is the woman whose husband fears God
and is obedient to His Word.