[1] These are the sayings that King Lemuel of Massa was taught by his mother. [2] My son Lemuel, you were born in answer to my prayers, so listen carefully. [3] Don't waste your life chasing after women! This has ruined many kings. [4] Kings and leaders should not get drunk or even want to drink. [5] Drinking makes you forget your responsibilities, and you mistreat the poor. [6] Beer and wine are only for the dying or for those who have lost all hope. [7] Let them drink and forget how poor and miserable they feel. [8] But you must defend those who are helpless and have no hope. [9] Be fair and give justice to the poor and homeless. [10] A truly good wife is the most precious treasure a man can find! [11] Her husband depends on her, and she never lets him down. [12] She is good to him every day of her life, [13] and with her own hands she gladly makes clothes. [14] She is like a sailing ship that brings food from across the sea. [15] She gets up before daylight to prepare food for her family and for her servants. [16] She knows how to buy land and how to plant a vineyard, [17] and she always works hard. [18] She knows when to buy or sell, and she stays busy until late at night. [19] She spins her own cloth, [20] and she helps the poor and the needy. [21] Her family has warm clothing, and so she doesn't worry when it snows. [22] She does her own sewing, and everything she wears is beautiful. [23] Her husband is a well-known and respected leader in the city. [24] She makes clothes to sell to the shop owners. [25] She is strong and graceful, as well as cheerful about the future. [26] Her words are sensible, and her advice is thoughtful. [27] She takes good care of her family and is never lazy. [28] Her children praise her, and with great pride her husband says, [29] "There are many good women, but you are the best!" [30] Charm can be deceiving, and beauty fades away, but a woman who honors the LORD deserves to be praised. [31] Show her respect- praise her in public for what she has done.
