Every new year I come up with a personal project on which I need to work. Not a project like learning to paint or reading War and Peace or anything like that, but a personal project as in self improvement. (Never weight loss, though.) One year it was controlling my tongue - a never ending project. Four years ago it was getting up earlier each day. (Still never ending) The last two years it was forgiveness and getting rid of bitterness and self righteousness. (Yep. Never ending. ) This year my key verse is: She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27
You are probably thinking, “Puh-leeeaaase! Not that Proverbs 31 super chick again! She is an unreal example and God certainly does not intend for a modern woman to be like that. Besides, there are too many devotionals out there about her already.” Those were once my exact same thoughts. I had to decide if the whole Word of God or just the convenient parts were applicable to my life.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
1 Timothy 3:16, 17
First, let me assure you that the woman described in Proverbs 31 was not a flesh and blood woman. (Does that make you feel a bit better?) She was and is, however, a beautiful picture painted by the Creator of the universe to be an encouragement and inspiration to all women. So often we fail to see the HOPE in her portrait, instead focusing on all the ‘impossible’ things like spinning wool and buying vineyards. Let’s take a look at this model woman’s characteristics:
~She is virtuous. V.10
~She is trustworthy. V. 11
~She does her husband good and not evil each and every day. V. 12
~She willingly works with her hands. V. 13, 19
~She provides meals for her family, even when the hours are inconvenient. V. 15
~She is financially savvy and thinks through purchases. V. 16
~She takes care of her body, purposefully strengthening herself. V. 17
~She ensures quality in what she creates, even if it means staying up a bit later. V. 18
~She reaches out to those in need and the poor. V. 20 (I see her reaching out in a physical, emotional and spiritual way depending on the need.)
~She does not worry about the physical comfort of her family because she is careful to prepare their wardrobes for the seasons. V. 21
~She takes care to dress attractively to honor of her husband. V. 22
~The work she does is desired by others. V. 25
~Her strong and honorable character is her greatest feature. V. 25
~She is full of wisdom and shares it with kindness. V. 26
~She watches over her family and is not lazy. V. 27
~As a result of the above attributes, her children and husband honor her and tell others of her integrity. V. 28, 29
~She might not be the most physically beautiful chick around, but her heart is a lovely jewel that speaks loudly of her character. V. 30, 31
Do you notice how much emphasis is placed on the woman's character? We many times see only the seemingly overwhelming physical tasks. Proverbs 31 is so much more than that! The tasks - modern or ancient - are just the vehicles that bring godly character into our lives! Do you want to be a kind, wise woman who accomplishes much and is love and honored by her family? Do not be discouraged – it IS possible to be Super Chick. Our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of our homes and families. Call on Him today and ask Him to show you how you can fulfill your calling as a woman. Hebrews 4:12-16
Prayer:
Father, let me see the hope and encouragement in Your example of the woman in Proverbs. Help me to know how to walk out the calling on my life. I need Your counsel on how to be the woman I am called to be. I desire to honor You above all else in every area of my life. Amen.
Challenge:
Every woman’s life is different. Some may be a full time wife and mom at home, some might work a full time job outside of the home while still being a full time wife and mom. Others hold part time jobs, homeschool, attend college, are single, deal with chronic physical or mental illness. Some live in the city while others wrangle chickens in the country. Search the Lord’s counsel on how the above attributes will flesh out in your life. Share ideas with friends and hold one another accountable as you usher in the character of Christ into every area of your life.
Jen G. 2011
1 comment:
Beautiful, Jen!
Love your "modern" description of the Woman. Makes it easier for me to see how I can "become" super-chick!
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