Proverbs 31:30

NASB	NLT	VOICE
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.	30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.	30 Charm can be deceptive and physical beauty will not last, but a woman who reveres the Eternal should be praised above all others.

The second half of Proverbs 31 is all about the “ideal” significant other. I want to take this verse, go through the positive and negatives, and use what we learn to describe ideal person in a relationship of any kind of relationship.

Charm is the Hebrew noun chen (khane). This encapsulates the biblical concepts of grace and favor. It helps to understand God’s interactions with humanity. This is given as a favorable response through a sense of kindness, beauty or charm. It’s a part of God’s relationship with humanity, representing God’s favor and kindness.

Deceptive is the Hebrew noun sheqer (sheh’-ker). It refers to injustice, unrighteousness, and falsehood. It’s often used in false testimony, lying, and idolatry. In biblical contexts, it’s not merely a lie, but a moral failing that stands in opposition to God’s truth.

Beauty is the Hebrew noun yophiy (yoh-fee). It describes physical beauty or aesthetic appeal. It’s associated with divine creation, reflecting the inherent beauty and order established by God.

Not lasting/Vain is the Hebrew noun hebel (heh-bel). It describes the short-term nature of human work, the futility of following idols, and the changing nature of life.

Human’s gift of kindness, beauty, and charm falls short of God’s truth morally. The physical beauty and aesthetics are not worth the effort of the changing nature of the world. So, what are the positives?

To fear is the Hebrew adjective yare’ (yaw-ray). It’s used to describe people who show profound reverence for God, shown through obedience and worship. It’s not just an emotional response, but it’s shown through your actions and commitments. It highlights an obedient and faithful follower to God. 

Praise is the Hebrew verb halal (haw-lal’). It relates to both praise and celebration. The primary sense is to shine or be clear. It comes from the word “hallelujah.” It can also carry a negative connotation, implying foolish or madness.

Instead of focusing on human’s charm and human’s beauty and aesthetic, but they we should focus on how well they follow the teachings and commands of God. Those are the people who you should keep in your circle and keep as your influence. It influences how we view our own words and actions. It influences our relationships, both platonic and relational. We can be swayed in by what’s on the outside, but we must look at the inside. We must look at the person behind the person.

Next Part: Manna for the Mind #212