More Precious Than Rubies
The Bible describes two things that are more precious than rubies:
Wisdom
Solomon wrote that wisdom “is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her” (Proverbs 3:15). Wisdom is so much to be desired that there is nothing a person may hope for that can exceed its worth. Wisdom never comes alone. When Solomon made the decision to pray for wisdom, the Lord gave him also long life, wealth, and honor (1 Kings 3:5–14). In the Book of Proverbs, Solomon puts wisdom above all what people may wish for such as: long life, riches and fame.
While the promise of long life may be considered mainly for the final reward of the saints, it is still clear that good judgement and prudence will bring long life and health in this world. Many are troubled with the harmful effects of eating and drinking things that are not good for them and of having other unhealthful habits. Therefore, it is wise to study the connection between diet and health, and to try to live in harmony with rules of nature.
Some people think that worldly amusements and vain activities can bring happiness, but real gladness and fulfillment are found only in the paths of wisdom. Solomon stressed that peace and joy are found in following God’s rightouss path instead of following the popular trends looking for the vanishing pleasures of the world. While the wise person may not always have great riches, he will find that “godliness with contentment is great gain” and that the righteous will reap the benefits of a sound mind (1 Timothy 6:6).
Because Adam and Eve originally rejected wisdom as a way of life and listened to the devil, none of their offspring has been privileged to taste of the Tree of Life. However, godly wisdom in this life will guide the faithful into a way that will bring great blessings with longer life in this world, and also eternal life, where the believers will finally eat from the Tree of Life.
The Virtuous Woman
Solomon wrote, “who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10). Proverbs 31 describes the virtuous woman as “a woman of godly, firm, and industrious.” She is described as a busy wife that takes joy in her work and plans. She goes out of her way to get resources to work with that will be of benefit to her family.
She is wise in her dealing with monetary matters. She would appoint the day’s work for her servants at an early hour, teaching them to be as hard working as she is. The money she earns, she uses to buy a land, which she clears and plants vines. She creates riches by her good management. All her labor brings prosperity to her home.
This woman considers the poor. So, she helps them and gains God’s approval. In the winter, she is not afraid of the cold because all her family members are well dressed. She wears purple garments without being extravagant. This able wife and mother has dignity because of her good character. She laughs at the future because she is well prepared for it.
Her children will call her blessed. Also, her husband’s heart is full of joy, trust and respect for her. The only sure way to value the quality of a woman is to see the fruits of her labor. The actions of the virtuous woman speak for her. She will harvest forever the good rewards of her unselfish, industrious work and godly life.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
