Proverbs 31:11

The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value.

Study Bible

The heart of her husband trusts in her
This phrase highlights the deep trust and confidence a husband places in his wife. In biblical times, trust within a marriage was crucial for the stability of the household. The heart, often seen as the seat of emotions and will, signifies a profound level of trust that goes beyond mere reliance. This trust is reflective of the covenant relationship seen in Genesis 2:24, where husband and wife become one flesh. The trust here can be compared to the trust God desires from His people, as seen in Proverbs 3:5, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart." The virtuous woman is a type of the Church, the Bride of Christ, who is trusted by her Bridegroom, Jesus.

and he lacks nothing of value
This phrase suggests that the wife contributes significantly to the well-being and prosperity of the household. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, a wife's role was integral to the economic and social success of the family. Her industriousness and wisdom ensure that the household is well-provided for, echoing the blessings of a faithful life as described in Deuteronomy 28:1-14. The phrase also connects to the idea of spiritual riches, as seen in Matthew 6:19-21, where true value is found in heavenly treasures. The provision and security she brings to her husband can be seen as a reflection of how Christ provides for His Church, ensuring that it lacks nothing of eternal value.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Virtuous Wife
The subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is a model of godly womanhood and virtue. She is depicted as a wife whose character and actions bring honor and trust to her household.

2. The Husband
The husband in this verse is portrayed as a man who places his full confidence in his wife. His trust in her is complete, indicating a deep bond of mutual respect and love.

3. King Lemuel
The author of Proverbs 31 is traditionally identified as King Lemuel, who shares the wisdom taught to him by his mother. This chapter is often seen as a mother's advice to her son on the qualities of a virtuous wife.

4. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of this passage is ancient Israel, where family and household management were central to societal stability and prosperity.

5. Wisdom Literature
Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes teachings on how to live a life pleasing to God through practical and moral instruction.

Teaching Points

Trust as a Foundation
Trust is a cornerstone of a healthy marriage. The virtuous wife earns her husband's trust through her integrity, wisdom, and diligence. In a Christian marriage, both partners should strive to build and maintain trust.

Value Beyond Material Wealth
The phrase "he will lack nothing of value" suggests that the wife's contributions go beyond material wealth. Her character and actions provide spiritual and emotional richness to the household.

Mutual Respect and Partnership
The relationship depicted in Proverbs 31:11 is one of mutual respect and partnership. Both husband and wife have roles that complement each other, reflecting God's design for marriage.

Role of Women in the Household
This verse highlights the significant role women play in the household. A virtuous woman is not only a support to her husband but also a leader in her own right, managing the home with wisdom and care.

Biblical Womanhood
The qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman serve as a model for biblical womanhood, encouraging women to pursue godliness, wisdom, and strength in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the trust described in Proverbs 31:11 reflect the overall relationship between the husband and wife in this passage?

2. In what ways can modern Christian marriages apply the principles of trust and value found in Proverbs 31:11?

3. How does the concept of trust in a marriage relate to the broader biblical teaching on love and respect between spouses?

4. What are some practical ways a wife can earn and maintain her husband's trust, according to the biblical model?

5. How can the qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman inspire both men and women in their personal and spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 12:4
This verse also speaks of a virtuous wife as a crown to her husband, emphasizing the honor and dignity she brings to him.

1 Peter 3:1-6
This passage discusses the conduct of wives, encouraging them to be respectful and pure, which aligns with the trust and value described in Proverbs 31:11.

Ephesians 5:22-33
This section of Scripture outlines the relationship between husbands and wives, highlighting mutual love and respect, which is foundational to the trust mentioned in Proverbs 31:11.