Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. (Prov. 31:30-31)

The author of Proverbs 31 writes, “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies … her husband has full confidence in her … and she brings him good … not harm … all the days of her life.”

These verses remind us that love and respect are inextricably linked. The women the Bible presents as most desirable are those who are most respected by their husbands. This is simply because men are most relationally drawn to women they respect, even if they may be tempted to use those that they don’t.

The Bible’s emphasis on a woman’s noble character does not deny the gift of beauty. But it makes clear that physical attraction alone, though powerful, will not maintain a relationship where mutual respect has died.

A Proverbs 31 wife loves and respects her husband, but she is also to be loved and respected by her husband, who praises her and calls her, “Blessed.”  Mutual respect rooted in God’s grace toward each spouse forges the deepest bonds of biblical marriage.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to see the connection between love and respect. Deepen love in my marriage by fostering respect in my heart for my spouse.