One of the first and most important things I do each year before school begins is pray and organize our life. (At least on paper) Because of my overwhelming lists, I haven't been able to focus on one task completely. I stepped away from my regular Bible reading plan for that very reason. I've continued reading through Proverbs and then just done some keyword searches. I didn't want to keep reading through 2 Sam. and 1 Corinthians and not be able to fully focus and learn. I have found it refreshing to step back. God knows where I'm at in my life and this is allowing me to search the scriptures that minister to what I'm going through.
Today, July 31, brings me to Proverbs 31. The very popular Proverb, especially for women. In verses 10-31 we see a description of an excellent or worthy woman. I almost didn't read through it again thinking this might overwhelm me more. But trusting the Lord, I broke out my highlighter and pressed on. I am so thankful that the Words of God are living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. I love how the Lord ministers to my heart through this living Word.
I mentioned earlier that I haven't been able to focus on the overall organization of our life for the next year. It just seemed/seems overwhelming. However, Proverbs 31 really helped me this morning. I know this is my goal. In verse 10 the scriptures says, "An excellent wife, who can find?" There's grace! I know that I cannot be perfect or meet all the expectations of an excellent wife/woman, but with God I can press on! In the verses following there are several attributes of this excellent woman.
- Her husband trusts her
- Works with delight
- Rises while it's still dark
- Feeds her family
- Uses her money wisely
- She's physically strong
- She works late and even into the night
- She reaches outside her household and ministers to those around her
- She makes sure her family is clothed well
- Strength and dignity are her clothing
- She smiles at the future
- Speaks with wisdom
- Teaches with kindness
- Looks well to her own household
- Is not lazy
Verses 30-31 are my favorite:
"Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her the product of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates."
My goal for this year is to, "Fear the Lord." That in itself encompasses a lot. I am going to try, with His help, to love Him more, listen to Him more, obey Him more, walk with Him more closely, respect Him, and fear Him. I'm praying that like the scriptures say the products of my hands will then praise me. I am hopeful I will see the fruit of my labors.
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