"Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies." Proverbs 31:10
I know. We women cringe when we turn to Proverbs 31 and read about the virtuous wife.
Let's be honest, could we really be her? Could we reach those lofty goals? Could we be that neat and orderly, managing everyone and everything precisely as she does?
Let's take a quick look at her, shall we?
She Is...(Prov. 31:10-31)
A woman of strength.
Trustworthy.
Honorable.
Committed.
Loyal.
Honest.
Hardworking for her family's sake, through that her character reaches out into her friends and community (All who know her).
Whew! Those are some wonderful akalaides but if you really break them down like I did in this list, are we not all of those already when we accepted Christ into our lives? He transformed us from the inside out. We look to Him to be our best self.
Jesus tells us "do not worry", "seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you" (Matt. 6:25;33).
The "virtuous wife" first feared and reverenced God which balanced her relationships and responsibilities. She "served wholeheartedly, as if serving the Lord, not people." (Eph. 6:7)
I believe the "Proverbs 31 Woman" should inspire us not threaten us. This scripture should become a checklist of all we are. Let's hold our heads humbly-high and lay claim to our accomplishments in Christ. Let's strive for the righteousness of Christ so that we can be all He wants us to be. That way our family will reap the blessings of what He will do through us.
Our integrity is witnessed first and foremost by who we live with. They are witnesses of who we truly are when no one else is looking. The description of who we are is held in testimony by our family.
*The way we talk to our husband and children.
*The way we serve them.
*The unconditional love we give them.
When our heart is made right then our family and home will reap the benefits, then it will spill over into our church and community. God has gifted us with all the skills we need to live a well appointed and productive life.
"Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."
(Prov. 31:28) Praise from our family is the most meaningful because they have seen us at our worst. Such praise should encourage us to follow in her footsteps.
I want to thank her for being such an extraordinary example for me.
I love you & He loves you more!
Heavenly Father, Thank you for this perfect example you laid out for us in Your Word. May we embrace her qualities as our own and seek to serve You first. May my life exemplify Your goodness and grace. Bless our home and our family. Amen.