I have a Proverbs 31 wife. Worth more than rubies (verse 10), stays up late to provide for her family (verse 18), no fear of snow or the snowblower (verse 21), and her daughters are ready for what’s next (verses 26,28).

But have you read the first half of Proverbs 31? It’s a great leadership teaching by a mom raising a good son, challenging him to ignore distractions and speak up:

“It is not for kings, Lemuel—it is not for kings to drink wine … lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. … Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor” (verses 4,5,8,9).

Consider these verses for King Lemuel versus those about a woman set about her work vigorously with her strong arms?! Ah! This feels like accountability. Moderate my living so I can help people? It’s hot in here …

If, like me, you are not perfect in this regard, look to Christ, who identified the people we are to aid. Read his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and let the people he holds in highest regard become your next volunteer gig. Reach out to a shut-in member of your congregation. Listen to those who can’t vote at the next congregational meeting and consider their input in casting your vote. If all that tricky work with adults isn’t your thing, remember Jesus held up children and said to let them come!