Bible Pathway - July 27, 2010
Highlights:
Solomon is led by the Holy Spirit to present basic moral and spiritual principles to guide the young and old alike 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 sets a standard that most Christian wives and mothers pray they can live up to. But there is an underlying behavior 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 the same about the godly man. 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 results of the heart of the husband trusting in the virtuous wife are that he shall have no need of spoil for she neither wastes nor wants (Prov. 31:11). Additionally, she will do him good and not evil (31:12). Interestingly, no need is the same expression as I shall 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 highest and best of God for her spouse.
The godly woman takes pleasure in providing for her family — rises early, makes wise decisions, is diligent and industrious, realizes that success results from her labors, and reaps the fruits of hard work. We note that she often burned the 'midnight oil.' After sunset is usually our "free time."
It is important to realize that our other activities should not dishonor 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). We should all, both men and women, be working to improve these traits.
Godly people are to have a heart of compassion and show it through deeds of mercy. Wisdom . . . from above is . . . full of mercy (James 3:17). Much is spoken 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 spouse 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 best. The conclusion is that all of us, men and women alike, will be greatly blessed because we feareth the Lord (Prov. 31:30).
Thought for Today:
Even them will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon Mine altar; for Mine House shall be called an house of prayer for all people (Is. 56.7).
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 =b> Restraining a contentious woman is like attempting to hold the wind; 28:11 searcheth him out =b> sees through him; 28:14 that feareth alway =b> who is always reverent; 28:17 stay =b> help; 29:10 seek his soul =b> has concern for his well-being; 30:23 odious =b> hateful.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. William Clay, Jr. (MO) and Rep. Glenn Thompson (PA) • Country: Sudan (28.9 million) at the eastern end of the Sahara Desert • Major languages: Arabic and Nubian • Limited religious freedom • 70% Sunni Muslim; 19% Christian; 10% Traditional; 1% Other/None • Prayer Suggestion: Confess and forsake any known sin (Neh. 1:6).
Optional Reading: Hebrews 4
Memory Verse for the Week: 2 Corinthians 4:10
