Proverbs 11:16

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about a gracious woman vs a ruthless man: 

Proverbs 11:16 (NASBStr)

A gracious woman attains honor,

And ruthless men attain riches.

Proverbs 11:16 (NIV1984)

A kindhearted woman gains respect,

but ruthless men gain only wealth.

Proverbs 11:16 (ESV)

A gracious woman gets honor,

and violent men get riches.

In our society rich people often get noticed, get power and get what they want.   However, if those people earned their money in a ruthless way, in deception, or in violent ways, Solomon says the one thing they won't be getting is respect.  On the other hand, a women, who is simply kind and gracious, will have respect and honor.   Note the comparisons we have here.    Wealth compared to respect.   Men compared to women.   In Solomon's day a women had little respect.    That is why the story of Nabal's wife and David stands out in such a strong way.  It is a fulfillment of the above proverb (1 Samuel 25).  Abigail was a kindhearted women and Nabal was a ruthless and rich narcissist.  He was selfish and a self serving, powerful man.  Abigail saved his life by being kind and gracious to David.  However, God eventually took Nabal’s life.   David eventually took Abigail as a wife, because of his great respect for her.   Make no mistake, a Godly women will always leave her mark before a rich and selfish man will or can.  Read Proverbs 31.    Note the story of Mary as she poured the oil on Jesus head as compared to Judas who only wanted to keep the oil for the riches it provided. God is delighted by those who are kind and gracious, and so should we.  Nabal was full of greed.  Abigail was kind and gracious.   She might have been used by Nabal, but in the end (which is the only thing that matters), she was rewarded.