Scripture: “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” – (31:30)
Observation: This chapter is well known for its description of a virtuous woman. Today’s key verse teaches that the outward appearance of a woman does not necessarily portray the true essence of who she is. A teasing smile, a pretty face, a flattering outfit… all are fleeting. That which lasts is what is in the heart, and it is the woman whose heart revers God who is valued and praised by Him as well as those in her life.
Application: The world often places value in superficial things such as appearance, fame, riches, etc., but these things eventually fade. When it comes to the regard of women, the world emphasizes physical beauty, seductive charm, and even immodest dress as standards by which their value is measured. The Bible clearly tells us that these attributes are not long-lasting, and they are rooted in sin.
The value of a woman is directly related to her fear of the Lord. This doesn’t mean she is afraid of God or His judgments upon her. It means she honors Him, respects Him, and worships Him with a pure heart. By this enduring relationship with God, a woman is respected and praised by her husband and children. Proverbs 31:28 states, “Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”
More importantly, God declares, “…for them that honour me I will honour…” (1 Samuel 2:30). Jesus also said in John 12:26, “If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.” A woman who honors God through her life has His eye upon her; He blesses her and the work of her hands! Psalm 90:17 records, “And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.” God highly values this woman and His Word states that she is virtuous and “…her price is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10). Let us strive to be a precious gem to the Lord each day!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, how I long to be highly favored in your sight. Empty me of myself, O God, and fill me with Your sweet Spirit. Mold me and make me a vessel of honor to Your use, to serve You in this life to the best of my ability, leading others to Jesus. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I'd rather be His than have riches untold;
I'd rather have Jesus than houses or lands.
I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand.
Than to be the king of a vast domain or be held in sin's dread sway.
I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today.
I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause;
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than world-wide fame.
I'd rather be true to His holy name.
Than to be the king of a vast domain or be held in sin's dread sway.
I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today.
(from "I'd Rather Have Jesus" by Rhea F. Miller)
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“Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” – Proverbs 31:25