1 The wise woman builds her house [on a foundation of godly precepts, and her household thrives],

But the foolish one [who lacks spiritual insight] tears it down with her own hands [by ignoring godly principles].

10 The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of wisdom [its starting point and its essence],

And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding and spiritual insight.

33 The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the instruction for wisdom [its starting point and its essence];

And before honor comes humility.

5 If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.

11 Seek the Lord and His strength;

Seek His face continually [longing to be in His presence].

10 *An excellent woman [one who is spiritual, capable, intelligent, and virtuous], who is he who can find her?

Her value is more precious than jewels and her worth is far above rubies or pearls. [Prov 12:4; 18:22; 19:14]

25 Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure;

And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family are prepared].

26 She opens her mouth in [skillful and godly] wisdom,

And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue [giving counsel and instruction].

28 Her children rise up and call her blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired);

Her husband also, and he praises her, saying,

29 "Many daughters have done nobly, and well [with the strength of character that is steadfast in goodness],

*But you excel them all."

30 Charm and grace are deceptive, and [superficial] beauty is vain,

But a woman who fears the Lord [reverently worshiping, obeying, serving, and trusting Him with awe-filled respect], she shall be praised.

4 A virtuous and excellent wife [worthy of honor] is the crown of her husband,

But she who shames him [with her foolishness] is like rottenness in his bones. [Prov 31:23; 1 Cor 11:7]

16 A gracious and good woman attains honor,

And ruthless men attain riches [but not respect].

14 House and wealth are the inheritance from fathers,

But a wise, understanding, and sensible wife is [a gift and blessing] from the Lord. [Prov 18:22]

3 Older women similarly are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor addicted to much wine, teaching what is right and good, 4 so that they may encourage the young women to tenderly love their husbands and their children, 5 to be sensible, pure, makers of a home [where God is honored], good-natured, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored.

11 *Women must likewise be worthy of respect, not malicious gossips, but self-controlled, [thoroughly] trustworthy in all things.

1 "Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps and went to *meet the bridegroom.2 Five of them were foolish [thoughtless, silly, and careless], and five were wise [far-sighted, practical, and sensible]. 3 For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take any [extra] oil with them,4 but the wise took flasks of oil along with their lamps.5 Now while the bridegroom was delayed, they all began to nod off, and they fell asleep.6 But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! The bridegroom [is coming]! Go out to meet him.’7 Then all those virgins got up and put their own lamps in order [trimmed the wicks and added oil and lit them]. 8 But the foolish virgins said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’9 But the wise replied, ‘No, otherwise there will not be enough for us and for you, too; go instead to the dealers and buy oil for yourselves.’10 But while they were going away to buy oil, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut and locked. 11 Later the others also came, and said, ‘Lord, Lord, open [the door] for us.’12 But He replied, ‘I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I do not know you [we have no relationship].’ 13 Therefore, be on the alert [be prepared and ready], for you do not know the day nor the hour [when the Son of Man will come].