More Precious Than Jewels

Proverbs poses an interesting question, “An excellent wife who can find?” (31:10). It’s not that she doesn’t exist, but the reality is, she’s hard to find. When a man does finally find her he begins to discover that “she is far more precious than jewels” (31:10). Because of her great value, the husband of an excellent wife praises her (31:28-29). I’m so thankful that I found—or I should say, that God found for me—an excellent wife, one who is definitely worthy of my praise.

So, on this Valentine’s Day, I want to give praise to Shelley, by sharing 14 things I love about her…

1. She’s passionate about her love relationship with God! I have been blessed to watch her grow significantly these past 20 years.

2. She’s beautiful from the inside out. Admittedly, I was first attracted to her outer beauty (and still am!) but soon began to discover that her inner beauty was just as radiant.

3. She’s a wonderful mother who loves her daughters unconditionally and teaches them with her words, but more importantly, with her life.

4. She’s an avid reader who shares what she’s learning with me and our girls.

5. She’s gentle and kind—she diligently seeks to live a life of grace to all she comes into contact with.

6. She’s a great cheerleader. Through the years she has not only encouraged me with her words, but I’ve also watched her do the same with our girls and so many others.

7. She loves and values her family! She loves to invest time with me, our girls, her mom, brother, and grandmother.

8. She’s a gifted writer with a God-given talent. Her writings stir my heart.

9. She’s got a beautiful smile—and it’s very contagious!

10. She’s truly selfless. I’ve watched her time and time again buy the girls something they need with her own birthday or Christmas money rather than buying something for herself that she needs.

11. She loves to take walks—and I love taking walks with her! I love that time to connect with her.

12. She takes great care of herself and her family. She not only exercises to stay healthy, but she also encourages our family to do the same. Oh yes, she prepares healthy meals—and they’re delicious!

13. She’s a great listener, always quick to hear and slow to speak.

14. She’s a gifted, creative and patient teacher, at home with our girls, at church with the youth and adults, and in the ESL class where she has served as a volunteer teacher.

To me, Shelley is definitely far more precious than jewels and my love for her grows deeper and stronger with each passing day. I’m so very blessed and I’m thankful for God’s wonderful gift to me!

Happy Valentine’s Day Shelley! I love you!