Behind Every Great Man ...

Proverbs 31:23

Her husband is known in the gates,

when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

The book of Proverbs is full of praise for a virtuous wife,

and full of warnings about life with the clamorous, nagging, undisciplined woman.

Here, Solomon continues his praise for this Proverbs 31 woman.

Perhaps the praise is not direct,

but Solomon sees her husband's success as a reflection of her virtue.

Her husband has a place of prominence, in part because of his wife.

After the preceding descriptions of this woman,

I am sure that this husband does not worry about things at home while at the city gates-

he knows things are being well-cared for and he has confidence in his wife.

I agree with Solomon.

I think a wife can have a great influence on her husband's success or lack thereof.

A wife can prevent her husband from advancing.

A wife can hold back helpful advice and ideas.

A wife can berate, correct and belittle until there is no desire to succeed.

A wife can dishonor and embarrass.

A wife can put her own "needs" and wants ahead of those of her family.

In ministry, a wife can disqualify a man from his calling.

On the flip side, a wife can be the greatest cheerleader.

A wife can give loving counsel that no one else can due to her special relationship.

A wife can honor her husband and breed that respect in others.

A wife can create a home that encourages peace and creativity.

 A wife can work beside to help to carry her husband's load.

A wife can be the most faithful prayer warrior for her husband.

A wife can support her husband's goals at home, work, and in ministry.

I long to help my husband succeed.

I must recognize that I play a part in his success.

So I must get busy supporting, cheering, praying, and honoring...