Virtue in Verse
The words of King Lemuel,
his mom’s decree, Advising her son,
like a wise soliloquy: What,
my son? The fruit of my vow,
Give not your strength to women now.
Rulers, beware of wine and peril,
Lest judgment lost, and paths grow sterile.
Let beer be for the heavy-hearted,
Wine for those whom joy departed.
Speak for those who can’t contest,
Ensure the law their rights protect.
Judge justly, defend the poor,
Uphold their cause, open the door.
A virtuous woman,
who can find?
Far worthier than jewels refined.
A husband's heart in her confides,
He’ll lack no gain,
as God guides. (oh
yeah, far worthier)
She does him good all her life,
Focusing always on peace,
not strife. Plans eagerly,
for she’s wise, Working hands,
dawn till night skies.
Inspects the fields, buys and plants,
Her vineyard grows, she grants.
With strength adorned, her work persists,
Profitable is her hard listing.
Her lamp goes not out at night,
While spinning hands hold work tight.
Gives to the poor,
embraces the weak, Stretches her hands,
for others she'll seek.
Without fear of snow,
her house is clad,
Clothing all in scarlet,
glad. Her bedspreads fine,
of silk complete, Her husband known in the city’s seat.
Linens she weaves, merchants pleased,
Strength and honour, her future seized.
A virtuous woman, who can find?
Far worthier
than jewels refined.
A husband's heart
in her confides, He’ll lack no gain,
as God guides. (yeah,
yeah, oh search far and wide)
She speaks wisdom’s gentle tone,
Kindness in her law is shown.
Watches over her home's flight,
Idleness keeps her sight.
Her children rise with praises voiced,
Her husband, too, in her choice.
Many daughters do noble things,
But you excel, royal rings.
Charm is fleeting, beauty a wraith,
But woman revered fears the Lord's faith.
Give her the fruit her hands sought,
Her deeds at the gates she taught.
Dear Lord Jesus, You are perfect wisdom and virtue.
Teach us to live with integrity,
speaking for the voiceless,
sharing with the needy.
Amen. (amen, yeah)