From: Words That Heal
By: Michael Ross & Brian Doyle
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
While this passage talks about "a wife of noble character," the verses highlight some qualities and spiritual principles that all women can apply--especially moms. But keep in mind, these verses refer to the ideal. They are great goals for which to strive, but it's unreal to think you can fulfill all of them at the same time. (Hey, God doesn't expect you to be a super-woman!)
The Proverbs 31 woman ...
Is trustworthy (v. 10): Reliable. To be counted on. Consistent. Secure. Realistic.
Is virtuous (v. 11): Morally upright. Learns from past mistakes and keeps her principles.
Is industrious (vv. 13, 14, 28): Hard working. Diligent. Active, busy, persistent. She hangs in there with tough tasks when her body and mind tell her to quit.
Is generous (v. 15): Unselfish. Considerate. Kindhearted. Ungrudging. Always willing to give or share.
Is wise (vv. 16,27): Perceptive. Intuitive. Thoughtful. Shrewd. Aims for practical, God-honoring goals.
Is strong (v. 17): Stable, sure of herself. She has the ability to juggle many different tasks under pressure.
Is compassionate (v. 19): Sympathetic, responsive and warm. Willing to offer constructive help.
Is dignified (v. 28): Stands tall with grace. Poised.
Is spiritual (v. 30): Fears God and reverences her relationship with Him above everything else.
Questions:
Which of these attributes are hard for you to live out? Which ones come natural for you? Describe a woman in your life who possesses many of these qualities.
Strive to be a "woman of noble character." With God's help, you can become the woman God desires you to be. Use Proverbs 31 as a standard to reach for, knowing that you don't have to fulfill every detail in every verse. What steps are you willing to take in order to live out these verses?
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