Proverbial advice to a son

Although my darling boy is only five, he is gorgeous, like his father, with brown skin and a winning smile. He is deeply sensitive and knows his way around the kitchen. He is also all that you might expect from a boy--he's all about Star Wars, knights in shining armor, football and baseball. He's going to be quite a catch.

As I look over Proverbs 31, with which I have a love/hate relationship, I want to look from the viewpoint of a wise mother giving advice to her son--who is quite a catch. This is the royal advice that a prince who would be king received from his mother.

(My paraphrase)

My boy, birthed from my body, little image of your father...
don't waste your energy chasing women and hooking up in meaningless encounters.

You're meant for so much more and that kind of recklessness is not meant for a man who has great purpose.

And don't spend all your time with the boys, either, drinking and carousing and partying. It's a waste of your time. You have a future, not like those who drink to forget their hopelessness. You were meant to make a difference in the world and to work on behalf of the powerless, not make yourself powerless with alcohol. Don't forget to be the voice for those who have no voice, and to work for justice.

Do look for a suitable wife--but search hard and have high standards. You need someone who will challenge you to be all you should be. A woman really worth her salt is hard to find. A woman you can trust is worth more than flashy jewels. Character is long-lasting and such a wife will be good to you for the rest of your lives together.

Find a woman who is hard-working, who knows how to care for herself and others. She's the kind of woman who will do what it takes to keep things going. She knows how to manage others, how to manage money and how to make a good business deal. Find a woman who is energetic and knows how to persevere.

She should not be only concerned for herself and her family, however. She should be generous and hospitable, caring for others who are in need. She is prepared for hard times and thinks ahead.

A woman like this makes you look good, and her hard work will enable you to succeed as well. She is creative and entrepreneurial, and together you will be a mighty team.

A woman like this doesn't need an expensive wardrobe, strength and dignity clothe her and prepare her for whatever comes with her sense of humor intact.

You need a woman who is wise and knows how to teach others. She needs to take care of the household and to work hard. Your children will respect such a woman and you had better let her know of your loving affirmation as well. "There are many great women out there, but you, my love, are the best!"

Sweet talk can lie and a pretty face and sexy body don't last forever, but a godly woman deserves your praise. Speak well of her always, and let everyone know that your wife lives a life of works dedicated to God.

Micah Girl