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The Excellence Of The Virtuous Woman…
29) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30) Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. (Proverbs 31:29-21)
For The SIH Devotional On This Subject:
The Names Of Christ: “Shepherd Of Your Souls”
Jesus Is The Caretaker Of Our Souls
1Pe 2:25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com
http://settledinheaven.org
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 31:29-31
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Proverbs Of King Lemuel: The Excellence Of A Godly Influential Woman: Proverbs 31:29-31
29) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30) Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
King Lemuel now turns our attention to advice, given from His mother, to help us understand the preciousness and importance of “virtuous” women.
What does “virtuous” mean? This is a term that carries with it the idea of “force” or “influence”. It is translated in the Bible as: “army”, “company”, “force”, “might”, “strength”, “valor”, among others. The main thrust of this term is teaching us that this type of woman is a tremendous force for good in society. Not only does she bring profit to herself and her family, but she is profitable to all those around her. This is why she is described as “virtuous”.
EXPOSITION:
29) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
1. There is an abundance of female relatives that perform individual acts that influence others.
2. But it is the virtuous woman who excels over others.
One of the great hallmarks of a truly virtuous woman is the performance of beneficial works for her family and those around her AS A WAY OF LIFE. It is this attribute of the virtuous woman that causes her to be exalted above all other women who perform singular acts of kindness towards others.
S. A virtuous woman consistently works to benefit those to whom she comes into contact.
“My dove, my undefiled is [but] one; she [is] the [only] one of her mother, she [is] the choice [one] of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; [yea], the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.” (Song of Solomon 6:9)
30) Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
1. Acts of kindness can be used fraudulently and physical beauty has no long term benefits
2. A woman who reverences the Lord is the one who shall be commended
Both random acts of kindness and physical beauty can be used selfishly to manipulate others. Although they may work in the short term, neither will bring lasting, eternal benefits. But when a woman properly reverences the Lord, and in doing so lives a virtuous life, she shall be honored by men and be the recipient of eternal rewards from the Lord.
T. A virtuous woman will receive temporal honor from men and eternal rewards from the Lord for her consistently beneficial works among men.
“Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and
will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” (1 Corinthians 4:5)
31) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
1. Give back to her in like kind as she has done for you.
2. Allow her works to speak for themselves. In doing so, they will bring honor and respect upon her from those in high position in the community.
The Godly woman’s works are proof of her life’s goal….
1. Give herself to the service of the Lord by…
2. using her God-given talents, gifts and calling to assist her family and others while…
3. giving no thought to herself.
This is the ultimate goal that is given to all of us from the Lord, and it is wonderfully accomplished in the life of a virtuous woman…
“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second [is] like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 22:37-40)
U. The virtuous woman’s works will speak for themselves, bringing to her the honor of men and rewards of the Lord.
SUMMARY:
In a study, so far, these are the qualities that are possessed by a Godly “woman of influence”:
A. A virtuous woman will faithfully care for her family and make certain their needs are supplied.
B. A virtuous woman will always work for the benefit of her husband’s and family’s reputation and well-being.
C. A virtuous woman plays the role of manufacturer for her family.
D. A virtuous woman holds the position of purchaser for the family.
E. A virtuous woman holds the position of manager/laborer working long hours of labor and oversight.
F. A virtuous woman has the position of business owner and farmer exercising asset oversight and profitability
G. A virtuous woman seeks to excel in every area of her life through self-improvement and preparation
H. A virtuous woman shows she is diligent by making the most of every opportunity to be productive.
I. A virtuous woman is humble: performing mundane tasks, setting the example, and instructing others.
J. A virtuous woman is sacrificial, kind, charitable to the needy that may cross her path.
K. The virtuous woman plans ahead to meet her family’s future needs.
L. A virtuous woman can satisfy many of her desires through the use of her talents and abilities.
M. A virtuous woman will possess a testimony that brings respect to her husband and family.
N. A virtuous woman is faithful to the Lord in her professional calling and possession of a Christ-like testimony.
O. A virtuous woman has a Godly testimony that influences others.
P. A virtuous woman speaks beneficial words out of a heart of live, respect and a desire to help those in need.
Q. A virtuous woman lives a live of service to meet the needs of her family
R. A virtuous woman finds her greatest respect among those closest to her
S. A virtuous woman consistently works to benefit those to whom she comes into contact.
T. A virtuous woman will receive honor from men and eternal rewards from the Lord for her works among men.
U. The virtuous woman’s works will speak for themselves, bringing her the honor of men and rewards of the Lord.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
This concludes our study from the book of Proverbs. Thank you so much for taking part in our devotional series. May the Lord give us grace to live out these principles in our everyday living. May the Lord bless you.
Beginning January 2nd we will be posting devotions from the book of Ephesians with “Reflections of His grace” as the main theme of the devotionals.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
A Virtuous Woman Deserves The Respect And Honor Of Her Family…
24) She maketh fine linen, and selleth [it]; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue [is] the law of kindness.
27) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her. (Proverbs 31:24-28)
For The SIH Devotional On This Subject
The Names Of Christ: “Servant”
Jesus Perfectly Served His Father On Our Behalf.
Isa 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.
Isa 52:13 Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com
http://settledinheaven.org
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 31:24-28
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Proverbs Of King Lemuel: A Godly Influencial Woman Is Appreciated For Her Many Endeavors and Talents: Proverbs 31:24-28
24) She maketh fine linen, and selleth [it]; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. 25) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. 26) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue [is] the law of kindness. 27) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.
King Lemuel now turns our attention to advice, given from His mother, to help us understand the preciousness and importance of “virtuous” women.
What does “virtuous” mean? This is a term that carries with it the idea of “force” or “influence”. It is translated in the Bible as: “army”, “company”, “force”, “might”, “strength”, “valor”, among others. The main thrust of this term is teaching us that this type of woman is a tremendous force for good in society. Not only does she bring profit to herself and her family, but she is profitable to all those around her. This is why she is described as “virtuous”.
EXPOSITION: 24) She maketh fine linen, and selleth [it]; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
A virtuous business woman:
1. She creates quality wrappings and sells it
2. and turns over bindings to the sellers.
Here we see some marks of a virtuous business woman are:
1. creation of goods that are needed (and wanted) by others
2. creation of goods of quality
3. selling her goods to the public or to the merchants (making her goods available to those who need them)
4. Bringing in a reasonable profit for the benefit of their family which is their first priority.
This example shows us clearly that being a Godly, virtuous woman is not limited to homemakers, but reach into the professional world as well. Keep in mind, in it just like every area of Christian service… different Christians are called to different areas of service for Christ. Some women are called into the field of business to be a Christ-like light in the midst of sin darkened business world. Others are equally as virtuous in the fields of communication, medical, and homemaking…actually the list in unending.
The main point is this all CAN BE EQUALLY virtuous based upon their level of faithfulness to God’s calling and the Christ like testimony that they hold in the field to which they are called. But in every case, the virtuous woman’s first responsibility is to her family, meeting their needs and raising their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
N. A virtuous woman is faithful to the Lord in her professional calling and her possession of a Christ-like testimony.
“Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” (Romans 12:11)
25) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
A virtuous woman is influential…
1. The ability to complete a given task and the respect given to her by others is the force behind her influence
2. Her Godly influence will bring to her lasting joy and peace
A virtuous woman’s Godly testimony is a force of great influence among her family, friends and others who have the privilege of knowing her. As they see her successful life of service to the Lord, it brings to her great respect and joy knowing her life is not lived in vain.
O. A virtuous woman has a Godly testimony that influences others.
“But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” (1 Timothy 2:10)
26) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue [is] the law of kindness.
A virtuous woman possesses Godly speech…
1. Her open mouth is a source of great wisdom
2. Her tongue fulfills its responsibility to be kind, merciful and caring to others.
The speech and lifestyle of a virtuous woman is in alignment with the teachings of Paul… “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech [be] alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:5-6)
P. A virtuous woman speaks beneficial words out of a heart of live, respect and a desire to help those in need.
“Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord [are] over the righteous, and his ears [are open] unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord [is] against them that do evil.” (1 Peter 3:8-12)
27) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
A virtuous woman’s first priority is the welfare of her family…
1. She leans forward intently watching over the path taken by her family members
2. She does not make wasting of time and opportunity a part of her life.
The virtuous woman is always busy meeting her family’s needs and never finds time to “lean on her shovel” wasting her life and opportunities of service set before her.
Q. A virtuous woman lives a live of service to meet the needs of her family
“Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. For some are already turned aside after Satan.” (1 Timothy 5:10-15)
28) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.
A virtuous woman finds her greatest respect among those closest to her:
1. Her children stand in her honor
2. Her children verbally speak good of her and desire the best for her
3. Her husband joins the children in causing her to shine in the eyes of others through his speech and actions.
This is a very important point and a good place to stop our study for today. A truly virtuous woman DESERVES all the praise, honor and respect that can be given to her. Her family is obligated to give her these things. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO EXCUSE FOR A FAMILY TO TAKE A VIRTUOUS WOMAN FOR GRANTED, NOR TO DISRESPECT HER IN ANY WAY.
This applies to when the family is in public and also in the privacy of their home. A Godly, virtuous woman is of unspeakable value and is to be treated as such at all times.
This applies as well to Godly men and Godly children. These are all very rare commodities in today’s society and desire the greatest amount of love and respect from those who are the closest to them. This principle applies to children as well. It is very important for GODLY PARENTS OR GODLY CHILDREN to be given the respect and honor that they deserve. This begins by showing respect to one another in all public and private situations. When a child complains about their Godly parents, or vice versa, in public or private, they are showing them great disrespect. It is a matter of respect, love and loyalty to each other and the Lord.
Just a personal note on this… I do count my wife as the most virtuous woman that I know. We both observe an unspoken rule to NEVER speak ill of each other to others. I can honestly say I have never complained, nor “whined” to others about my wife. (She makes this very easy for me to do, since there is nothing I have to complain about). To my knowledge, she has done the same for me as well. I trust her in this and I have been told by others “all she does is say good things about you” confirming my trust. I am only sharing this to say that it is possible to live this way as a habitual lifestyle and, actually, very easy to do when your spouse deserves such respect.
Over the years, I have seen the same thing from a variety of Godly couples. This is, normally but not always, those who are older couples who have learned over the years to appreciate their Godly spouses. Similarly I have seen Godly men, Godly women or Godly children whose family did not appreciate them, spoke against them in public, and brought them undeserved shame and embarrassment. In my way of thinking, this is one of the most difficult situations to live under for a Godly person. To have your closest loved ones take you for granted and talk ill of your Godly living is a travesty. It should bring sorrow to the heart of all those who are saved by God’s grace and understand the value of those who live virtuous lives for His glory.
R. A virtuous woman finds her greatest respect among those closest to her “Blessed [are] they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah.” (Psalms 84:4)
SUMMARY: In a study, so far, these are the qualities that are possessed by a Godly “woman of influence”:
A. A virtuous woman will faithfully care for her family and make certain their needs are supplied.
B. A virtuous woman will always work for the benefit of her husband’s and family’s reputation and well-being.
C. A virtuous woman plays the role of manufacturer for her family.
D. A virtuous woman holds the position of purchaser for the family.
E. A virtuous woman holds the position of manager/laborer working long hours of labor and oversight.
F. A virtuous woman has the position of business owner and farmer exercising asset oversight and profitability
G. A virtuous woman seeks to excel in every area of her life through self-improvement and preparation
H. A virtuous woman shows she is diligent by making the most of every opportunity to be productive.
I. A virtuous woman is humble: performing mundane tasks, setting the example, and instructing others.
J. A virtuous woman is sacrificial, kind, charitable to the needy that may cross her path.
K. The virtuous woman plans ahead to meet her family’s future needs.
L. A virtuous woman can satisfy many of her desires through the use of her talents and abilities.
M. A virtuous woman will possess a testimony that brings respect to her husband and family.
N. A virtuous woman is faithful to the Lord in her professional calling and possession of a Christ-like testimony.
O. A virtuous woman has a Godly testimony that influences others.
P. A virtuous woman speaks beneficial words out of a heart of live, respect and a desire to help those in need.
Q. A virtuous woman lives a live of service to meet the needs of her family
R. A virtuous woman finds her greatest respect among those closest to her
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve. May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”. SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/ SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/ SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
A New Daily Devotional Series Begins January 2, 2014…
The new daily devotional series will be a verse by verse look at Ephesians that will center on the gracious blessings we have received from the Lord.
For an encouraging way to start your day please click on the following link for “Reflections Of His Grace”!
https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/category/sih-lesson-types/sih-tott/
(all devotional lessons will be posted by 6:00 AM each morning.)
God Of The Ages – Charles Billingsley
As We End This Year Let Us Remember The Same Lord Who Was With Us In 2013 Will Continue To Be With Us In 2014…
Why? Because He Is The God Of The Ages!
Magnificent by Hillsong
Let’s Remember All The Wonderful Blessings Our Magnificent Lord Has Given To Us This Past Year…
Let’s Be Looking Forward In Faith To Continued Blessings In This Coming New Year!
A Godly Woman Brings Honor and Care To Her Family…
21) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household [are] clothed with scarlet.
22) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing [is] silk and purple.
23) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
(Proverbs 31:21-23)
For The SIH Devotional On This Subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 31:21-23
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Proverbs Of King Lemuel: A Godly Influencial Woman Brings Honor To Her Family: Proverbs 31:21-23
21) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household [are] clothed with scarlet.
22) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing [is] silk and purple.
23) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
King Lemuel now turns our attention to advice, given from His mother, to help us understand the preciousness and importance of “virtuous” women.
What does “virtuous” mean? This is a term that carries with it the idea of “force” or “influence”. It is translated in the Bible as: “army”, “company”, “force”, “might”, “strength”, “valor”, among others. The main thrust of this term is teaching us that this type of woman is a tremendous force for good in society. Not only does she bring profit to herself and her family, but she is profitable to all those around her. This is why she is described as “virtuous”.
EXPOSITION:
21) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household [are] clothed with scarlet.
1. She does not dread when snow comes
2. She has prepared her family for bad weather with the finest of doubled garments
The virtuous woman does not simply give “lip service” to the meeting of her family’s needs, but looks ahead and prepares for her family’s needs before they take place. By doing so, she can make the best possible preparations to meet her family’s needs.
K. The virtuous woman plans ahead to meet her family’s future needs.
“[As] he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, [and as] vinegar upon nitre, so [is] he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.” (Proverbs 25:20)
22) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing [is] silk and purple.
1. She creates handmade woven coverings to decorate her house
2. She also creates beautiful clothing of fine materials
She not only meets the needs of others, but she is able to satisfy many of her personal desires as well. A virtuous woman is talented in decorating her home and creating her own fashions. She is able to create that which is pleasing and satisfying to herself.
L. A virtuous woman can satisfy many of her desires through the use of her talents and abilities.
“The king’s daughter [is] all glorious within: her clothing [is] of wrought gold.” (Psalms 45:13)
23) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
1. Her labors on her husband’s behalf brings honor to him from those who enter the city. He is respected not only for his personal accomplishments but also for his wisdom in marrying such a woman as this.
2. The honor and respect given to him results in him being given a place among the authority holders of the city.
A virtuous woman will enhance the respect and honor that is given to her husband. She will show him to be wise and blessed having a wife such as her. She will possess a testimony that will bring no embarrassment upon her husband or her family, but will only cause them to appreciate her for her faithfulness, support and assistance on their behalf.
M. A virtuous woman will possess a testimony that brings respect to her husband and family.
“A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones.” (Proverbs 12:4)
SUMMARY:
In a study, so far, these are the qualities that are possessed by a Godly “woman of influence”:
A. A virtuous woman will faithfully care for her family and make certain their needs are supplied.
B. A virtuous woman will always work for the benefit of her husband’s and family’s reputation and well-being.
C. A virtuous woman plays the role of manufacturer for her family.
D. A virtuous woman holds the position of purchaser for the family.
E. A virtuous woman holds the position of manager/laborer working long hours of labor and oversight.
F. A virtuous woman has the position of business owner and farmer exercising asset oversight and profitability
G. A virtuous woman seeks to excel in every area of her life through self-improvement and preparation
H. A virtuous woman shows she is diligent by making the most of every opportunity to be productive.
I. A virtuous woman is humble: performing mundane tasks, setting the example, and instructing others.
J. A virtuous woman is sacrificial, kind, charitable to the needy that may cross her path.
K. The virtuous woman plans ahead to meet her family’s future needs.
L. A virtuous woman can satisfy many of her desires through the use of her talents and abilities.
M. A virtuous woman will possess a testimony that brings respect to her husband and family.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
The Kind Strength Of Godly Woman…
17) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18) She perceiveth that her merchandise [is] good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31:17-20)
(Proverbs 31:17-20)
For SIH devotional on this subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 31:17-20
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Proverbs Of King Lemuel: The Strength And Kindness Of A Godly Influencial Woman: Proverbs 31:17-20
17) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18) She perceiveth that her merchandise [is] good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
King Lemuel now turns our attention to advice, given from His mother, to help us understand the preciousness and importance of “virtuous” women.
What does “virtuous” mean? This is a term that carries with it the idea of “force” or “influence”. It is translated in the Bible as: “army”, “company”, “force”, “might”, “strength”, “valor”, among others. The main thrust of this term is teaching us that this type of woman is a tremendous force for good in society. Not only does she bring profit to herself and her family, but she is profitable to all those around her. This is why she is described as “virtuous”.
EXPOSITION:
17) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
1. She belts upon her waist power and ability
2. She fortifies her arms
A virtuous woman will always seek to improve herself by building up her weak areas. She will not be content with mediocrity, but she always seeks to be prepared to accomplish whatever task is set before her.
G. A virtuous woman seeks to excel in every area of her life through self-improvement and preparation
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” (Ephesians 6:10)
18) She perceiveth that her merchandise [is] good: her candle goeth not out by night.
1. She recognizes the work of her hands is of high quality
2. She keeps the candle burning late into the night.
She is diligent, using every opportunity to be productive. She shows her diligence through honest self accessment and a hatred of laziness. Because of her merchandise is of high quality and profitable, her candle can burn all night without her running out of oil.
H. A virtuous woman shows she is diligent by making the most of every opportunity to be productive.
“They that [were] foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, [Not so]; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” (Matthew 25:3-10)
19) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
1. She uses her hand to turn the wheel of the spinning wheel
2. She wraps the spun wool upon the rod she holds in her hands
In those days the spinning of wool into thread was a very laborious and monotonous task that was commonly performed by the servants of low degree. A virtuous woman is humble doing tasks that many would say are “beneath her”. She is very knowledgeable in all the tasks of the home and is able to set the example and instruct others on how to perform them.
I. A virtuous woman is humble: willing to perform mundane tasks, setting the example, and instructing those under her authority.
“And all the women that were wise hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun, [both] of blue, and of purple, [and] of scarlet, and of fine linen. And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats’ [hair].” (Exodus 35:25-26)
20) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
1. She holds out her hand to help lift the discouraged and weak
2. She reaches out an open hand to those needy and destitute.
Not only does a virtuous woman give sacrificially for the benefit of her husband and family, she also willingly gives on behalf of those who are hurting (emotionally, physically, financially). She takes the time to notice those who have needs around her. She evaluates their situation and then works to do what is necessary to help them in their time of need.
J. A virtuous woman is sacrificial, kind, charitable to the needy that may cross her path.
“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
SUMMARY:
In a study, so far, these are the qualities that are possessed by a Godly “woman of influence”:
A. A virtuous woman will faithfully care for her family and make certain their needs are supplied.
B. A virtuous woman will always work for the benefit of her husband’s and family’s reputation and well-being.
C. A virtuous woman plays the role of manufacturer for her family.
D. A virtuous woman holds the position of purchaser for the family.
E. A virtuous woman holds the position of manager/laborer working long hours of labor and oversight.
F. A virtuous woman has the position of business owner and farmer exercising asset oversight and profitability
G. A virtuous woman seeks to excel in every area of her life through self-improvement and preparation
H. A virtuous woman shows she is diligent by making the most of every opportunity to be productive.
I. A virtuous woman is humble: performing mundane tasks, setting the example, and instructing others.
J. A virtuous woman is sacrificial, kind, charitable to the needy that may cross her path.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
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Let Us Be Joyful…. Christ Has Come!
“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Gift Of Christmas – Dr Charles Stanley
May You Have A Blessed Christmas!
SIH’s Think On These Things: Isaiah 9:6 h
“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Since this time of year has been set aside by the world to remember the birth of Jesus, I thought it would be good for us to take one devotional to study the Godly response to the truths about Christ we have learned in Isaiah 9:6.
For our devotion this Christmas morning, let’s look at Isaiah 9:6 along with Luke 2:10-11…
TRUTH OF CHRIST EXPLAINED:
Before we begin our Christmas Day, let’s take a moment or two to consider our wonderful Lord that came to the earth on our behalf. In Isaiah 9:6, we have seen the person and work of the One who was God, who came to this fallen world to save His people from their sins…
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
Based upon this knowledge , we now turn to Luke 2:10-11 to see what our response to these truths should be on this wonderful day…
“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
Let’s limit our study for this morning to the phrase “I bring you good tidings of great joy”. This phrase teaches us two important truths:
1. The news of Christ’s coming to earth was the news of a “good” event. In other words it was beneficial to all mankind.
2. The news of Christ’s coming to earth would result in “great joy” coming into the world. “Great joy” is a Greek phrase that means “to jump for joy”. It speaks of a great joy within that shows itself outwardly by our actions.
Based upon this phrase we can learn of the three-fold response to His wondrous coming to the earth…
1. We are to take time to CONSIDER AND MEDITATE ON THE BENEFITS OF HIS COMING.
2. We are to cultivate within us ATTITUDES OF APPRECIATION AND JOY FOR THOSE BENEFITS.
3. We are to DECLARE THROUGH SPEECH AND ACTIONS THE GREAT APPRECIATION AND JOY WE HOLD IN OUR HEARTS.
SUMMARY:
As the Lord brings into our lives our family members, friends, acquaintances, and strangers, may we declare to them, through our words and actions, the joy of our hearts and the basis for that joy… our wonderful Lord and His work on our behalf!
Let’s use today as a perfect opportunity to share the joy of Christ with others who may not be receptive to us during other times of the year!
Lord willingly, we will return to our daily devotionals from Proverbs tomorrow morning.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com