Read Proverbs 27
Highlights:
Solomon is led to present basic moral and spiritual principles to guide the young and old alike in order to avoid the treacheries and deceptive pitfalls of sin that they are confronted with throughout life. The Book ends by describing the virtuous woman (Prov. 31:10-31).
The admirable description of the virtuous woman (Prov.31:10-31) sets a standard that most Christian wives and mothers pray they can live up to. But there is an underlying behavioral pattern here which outlines what God is looking for from all of us.
The word virtuous means moral strength (of character). It was used as Moses was searching for able (literally dependable and qualified) men such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness (Ex. 18:21).
In comparing the virtuous woman to rubies, she is a "rare, precious gem." The Lord says that the godly man is also rare: Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful (no longer the majority) fail from among the children of men (Ps. 12:1).
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil (his needs are met, for she neither wastes nor wants). Additionally, she will do him good and not evil (Prov. 31:11-12). Interestingly, have no need is the same expression as not want (Ps. 23:1). Trusting in the Lord as her Shepherd, she manages the home and her efforts result in gain — no need for spoil. In doing good, and not evil she wants only the Lord's highest and best for her husband.
The godly woman takes pleasure in meeting the needs of her family. She rises early, makes wise decisions, is diligent and industrious, realizes that her labors result in successs, and reaps the fruits of hard work. Like the virtuous woman, godly people have a heart of compassion and show it through the deeds of Mercy. Wisdom . . . from above is . . . full of mercy and good fruits (James 3:17).
We should all, both men and women, be working to improve these traits. It is important to realize that all our other activities should honor the Lord. Then, when we finally lie down, in our sleep we will enjoy the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7).
Much is spoken in Proverbs 31 about clothing and coverings. Think of what Christ suffered that we might be clothed in splendor for eternity (Is. 61:10).
The virtuous woman's husband is honorable, a prominent leader in the land (Prov. 31:23). A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband (12:4). She is praised by those who know her. Men and women alike, will be greatly blessed because we feareth the Lord (Prov.31:30).
Thought for Today:
Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you (Phil. 4:9).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who descended from and ascended to heaven (Prov. 30:4). Jesus came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is (now) in heaven (John 3:13).
Word Studies:
27:16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, Restraining a contentious woman is like attempting to hold the wind; 28:11 searcheth him out, sees through him; 28:14 that feareth alway, who is always reverent; 28:17 stay, help; 29:10 seek his soul, has concern for his well-being; 30:23 odious, hateful.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Rep. William Clay, Jr. (MO) and Rep. Glenn Thompson (PA) • Country: Romania (22.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Hungarian • Freedom of worship • 69.5% Romanian Orthodox Church; 14% non-Religious/Other; 8% Protestant; 7% Catholic; 1% Muslim; .1% Jewish; .4% Marginal • Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord in time of trouble, for He promises to hear us (Ps. 18:6).
Optional Reading:
Memory Verse for the Week:
Psalms 34:4
