Yes, that's right, if you want to have a happy marriage marry a model. Now before you jump to conclusions because of this title let me tell you quickly that I am not talking about the Hollywood covergirl model. I am talking about the instructions given to the youthful king Lemuel by his mother in Proverbs 31:10-31.

When in my youth I remember reading these 21 verses and thinking every girl should read this because it is about girls and for girls. Then as I grew a little older, still in my teens, a favorite Bible class teacher had us memorize this passage. Then I began to realize that this scripture wasn't just for women. I saw in these verses characteristics that I needed to look for in a young lady. Before this the only qualifications a girl had to have was that she be popular and pretty. I don't have to tell you what a lasting relationship you can build on popular and pretty. Statistics prove that you are playing with dynamite when those are the only characteristics you look for. In this chapter, Proverbs 31, I saw the real worth of this one whose "price is far above rubies."

He shows us her energy. She is up and going before the dawn. She doesn't love sleep. She takes care of her husband and her children and all her domestic duties then she is free to take care of the business outside her home. In her business she is not slothful. She not only can give instructions as to how something is to be done she is willing to do it herself. Her work is not drudgery but a joy. It is more fun to work with someone who whistles while they work. More work gets done too.

Also, there is wisdom in her work. She is organized. Her God is directing her hands. Her hands are constantly caring for and sharing with others less fortunate than herself. She knows too well it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35). She is Selfless.

Her husband and her children remember to praise her. Many times today mom is forgotten. We become spoiled because she is always there, always doing. I remember hearing that "Man may work from sun to sun, but woman's work is never done." Not much has changed has it? She is usually the first one up and unless there's a ball game on she's the last to sleep. How nice a "thank you sweetheart" would be ever so often.

Don't try to reward her with a tombstone or with sweet sounding words as she is laid to rest. Young man, marry a model, and be one yourself.