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Sermon recording from Sunday 15th December 2024 If you're interested in finding out more about Sovereign Grace Church please visit out website: https://www.sovgrace.org.au/ If you've got any questions we'd love to hear from you: info@sovgrace.org.au
For Yahweh is righteous; he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face. - Psalm 11:7 This Episode's Links and Timestamps: 00:00 – Scripture Reading 01:28 – Introduction 08:04 – My Commentary on Psalm 11 27:55 – The Woman Who Fears the LORD – Proverbs 31, Logos Bible Study 55:16 – Wives, Submit to Your Own Husbands – Ephesians 5, Logos Bible Study 1:19:34 - ‘Good Wives: Image and Reality in the Lives of Women in Northern New England, 1650-1750' by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich – Goodreads 2:05:07 - Liberal Justice Dismisses Risks Of Trans Surgeries For Minors: Aspirin Has Side Effects, Too – Virginia Kruta, DW
The Woman Who Fears The Lord
We hope you enjoy today's Scripture reading and devotional aimed at motivating you to apply God's word while strengthening your heart and nurturing your soul. Today's Bible reading is Proverbs 31:10–31. To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional. Browse other resources from Lydia Brownback. ESV Bible narration read by Kristyn Getty. Follow us on social media to stay up to date: Instagram Facebook Twitter
A Woman Who Fears The Lord Series: Stand Alone Sermon Scripture: Proverbs 31:30 Date: May 12th, 2024 Preacher: Joshua Kirstine The post A Woman Who Fears The Lord first appeared on Disciples Church.
A new MP3 sermon from Living Word Bible Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: A Woman Who Fears the Lord Subtitle: Mother's Day Speaker: Bob Grass Broadcaster: Living Word Bible Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 5/12/2024 Bible: Proverbs 31:10-31 Length: 43 min.
Happy Mother's Day! This Sunday, we will take a break from Hebrews as we praise God for His gift of Mothers. We will also have baby dedication in the second service. Because of the occasion, we will examine several verses from Proverbs 31, the quintessential passage extolling the virtuous woman (or the excellent wife). This is a very well-known section that is often preached and taught on Mother's Day. Unfortunately, I was often taught that Proverbs 31 is a checklist of virtuous actions the woman does to be excellent or worthy. If I were a woman or a mother (don't laugh), Proverbs 31 wouldn't encourage me or show me the virtue in my worth or calling. It would make me feel unworthy! The woman of Proverbs 31 is the epitome of honor, virtue, wisdom, and strength. Yet, when we look at ourselves, we are confronted with sin, mistakes, and inability. Sunday, we will look at Proverbs 31 a bit differently (“correctly” in my opinion). We will, of course, read Proverbs 31:10-31, but rather than run down the checklist of attributes and measure our worth and value by them, we will focus our attention on v. 28-31, finding that this “excellent wife” or “virtuous woman” is excellent and virtuous not because of all the things she does, but because she fears the Lord. Because she fears the Lord (which makes her “excellent”), she does all the wonderful things in this list. Her actions are not the source of her excellency but the fruit of her fear of the Lord. Proverbs is a book about wisdom, and this woman is presented as the model of wisdom. All her actions reflect previous teachings in Proverbs regarding what the wise do. The book begins by saying, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,” and Proverbs ends by showing us this woman's fear of the Lord expressed in a life of wisdom. She is excellent and virtuous because she fears the Lord, and because of that, we all must take heed. “a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” (Prov. 31:30).
In this message, we explore the truth that a woman who fears the Lord has character and conduct that honors God and contributes to the good of her family and community.
From Sunday 12 May 2024, Pastor Jason Clark takes a short break from the Colossians Series to do a short series titled "Walking in the Fear of the Lord". Todays message is "A Woman Who Fears the Lord is to be Praised" Proverbs 31:10-31fbcmw.org
In this message, we explore the truth that a woman who fears the Lord has character and conduct that honors God and contributes to the good of her family and community.
Proverbs 31:10-31 (CSB)
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A woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised (NLT) Proverbs 31: 30
Old Testament: Malachi 1–4 Malachi 1–4 (Listen) 1 The oracle of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.1 The Lord's Love for Israel 2 “I have loved you,” says the LORD. But you say, “How have you loved us?” “Is not Esau Jacob's brother?” declares the LORD. “Yet I have loved Jacob 3 but Esau I have hated. I have laid waste his hill country and left his heritage to jackals of the desert.” 4 If Edom says, “We are shattered but we will rebuild the ruins,” the LORD of hosts says, “They may build, but I will tear down, and they will be called ‘the wicked country,' and ‘the people with whom the LORD is angry forever.'” 5 Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, “Great is the LORD beyond the border of Israel!” The Priests' Polluted Offerings 6 “A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests, who despise my name. But you say, ‘How have we despised your name?' 7 By offering polluted food upon my altar. But you say, ‘How have we polluted you?' By saying that the LORD's table may be despised. 8 When you offer blind animals in sacrifice, is that not evil? And when you offer those that are lame or sick, is that not evil? Present that to your governor; will he accept you or show you favor? says the LORD of hosts. 9 And now entreat the favor of God, that he may be gracious to us. With such a gift from your hand, will he show favor to any of you? says the LORD of hosts. 10 Oh that there were one among you who would shut the doors, that you might not kindle fire on my altar in vain! I have no pleasure in you, says the LORD of hosts, and I will not accept an offering from your hand. 11 For from the rising of the sun to its setting my name will be2 great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my name, and a pure offering. For my name will be great among the nations, says the LORD of hosts. 12 But you profane it when you say that the Lord's table is polluted, and its fruit, that is, its food may be despised. 13 But you say, ‘What a weariness this is,' and you snort at it, says the LORD of hosts. You bring what has been taken by violence or is lame or sick, and this you bring as your offering! Shall I accept that from your hand? says the LORD. 14 Cursed be the cheat who has a male in his flock, and vows it, and yet sacrifices to the Lord what is blemished. For I am a great King, says the LORD of hosts, and my name will be feared among the nations. The Lord Rebukes the Priests 2 “And now, O priests, this command is for you. 2 If you will not listen, if you will not take it to heart to give honor to my name, says the LORD of hosts, then I will send the curse upon you and I will curse your blessings. Indeed, I have already cursed them, because you do not lay it to heart. 3 Behold, I will rebuke your offspring,3 and spread dung on your faces, the dung of your offerings, and you shall be taken away with it.4 4 So shall you know that I have sent this command to you, that my covenant with Levi may stand, says the LORD of hosts. 5 My covenant with him was one of life and peace, and I gave them to him. It was a covenant of fear, and he feared me. He stood in awe of my name. 6 True instruction5 was in his mouth, and no wrong was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and he turned many from iniquity. 7 For the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people6 should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts. 8 But you have turned aside from the way. You have caused many to stumble by your instruction. You have corrupted the covenant of Levi, says the LORD of hosts, 9 and so I make you despised and abased before all the people, inasmuch as you do not keep my ways but show partiality in your instruction.” Judah Profaned the Covenant 10 Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us? Why then are we faithless to one another, profaning the covenant of our fathers? 11 Judah has been faithless, and abomination has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem. For Judah has profaned the sanctuary of the LORD, which he loves, and has married the daughter of a foreign god. 12 May the LORD cut off from the tents of Jacob any descendant7 of the man who does this, who brings an offering to the LORD of hosts! 13 And this second thing you do. You cover the LORD's altar with tears, with weeping and groaning because he no longer regards the offering or accepts it with favor from your hand. 14 But you say, “Why does he not?” Because the LORD was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant. 15 Did he not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union?8 And what was the one God9 seeking?10 Godly offspring. So guard yourselves11 in your spirit, and let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth. 16 “For the man who does not love his wife but divorces her,12 says the LORD, the God of Israel, covers13 his garment with violence, says the LORD of hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.” The Messenger of the Lord 17 You have wearied the LORD with your words. But you say, “How have we wearied him?” By saying, “Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them.” Or by asking, “Where is the God of justice?” 3 “Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap. 3 He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the LORD.14 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the LORD as in the days of old and as in former years. 5 “Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the LORD of hosts. Robbing God 6 “For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. 7 From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?' 8 Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?' In your tithes and contributions. 9 You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you. 10 Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need. 11 I will rebuke the devourer15 for you, so that it will not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the LORD of hosts. 12 Then all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a land of delight, says the LORD of hosts. 13 “Your words have been hard against me, says the LORD. But you say, ‘How have we spoken against you?' 14 You have said, ‘It is vain to serve God. What is the profit of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the arrogant blessed. Evildoers not only prosper but they put God to the test and they escape.'” The Book of Remembrance 16 Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed his name. 17 “They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him. 18 Then once more you shall see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him. 16 The Great Day of the Lord 4 “For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, says the LORD of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall. 3 And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the LORD of hosts. 4 “Remember the law of my servant Moses, the statutes and rules17 that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel. 5 “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the LORD comes. 6 And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”18 Footnotes [1] 1:1 Malachi means my messenger [2] 1:11 Or is (three times in verse 11; also verse 14) [3] 2:3 Hebrew seed [4] 2:3 Or to it [5] 2:6 Or law; also verses 7, 8, 9 [6] 2:7 Hebrew they [7] 2:12 Hebrew any who wakes and answers [8] 2:15 Hebrew in it [9] 2:15 Hebrew the one [10] 2:15 Or And not one has done this who has a portion of the Spirit. And what was that one seeking? [11] 2:15 Or So take care; also verse 16 [12] 2:16 Hebrew who hates and divorces [13] 2:16 Probable meaning (compare Septuagint and Deuteronomy 24:1–4); or “The Lord, the God of Israel, says that he hates divorce, and him who covers [14] 3:3 Or and they will belong to the Lord, bringers of an offering in righteousness [15] 3:11 Probably a name for some crop-destroying pest or pests [16] 3:18 Ch 4:1–6 is ch 3:19–24 in Hebrew [17] 4:4 Or and just decrees [18] 4:6 The Hebrew term rendered decree of utter destruction refers to things devoted (or set apart) to the Lord (or by the Lord) for destruction (ESV) New Testament: John 21 John 21 (Listen) Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples 21 After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards1 off. 9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. Jesus and Peter 15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.” Jesus and the Beloved Apostle 20 Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them, the one who also had leaned back against him during the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” 21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” 22 Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” 23 So the saying spread abroad among the brothers2 that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” 24 This is the disciple who is bearing witness about these things, and who has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true. 25 Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Footnotes [1] 21:8 Greek two hundred cubits; a cubit was about 18 inches or 45 centimeters [2] 21:23 Or brothers and sisters (ESV) Psalm: Psalm 150 Psalm 150 (Listen) Let Everything Praise the Lord 150 Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens!12 Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! 3 Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp!4 Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe!5 Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals!6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD! Footnotes [1] 150:1 Hebrew expanse (compare Genesis 1:6–8) (ESV) Proverb: Proverbs 31:10–31 Proverbs 31:10–31 (Listen) The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 1 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself2 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.322 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [2] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [3] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV)
----- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService
----- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService
Proverbs 31:10–11 Proverbs 31:10–11 (Listen) The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 1 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. Footnotes [1] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet (ESV)
Old Testament: Proverbs 29–31 Proverbs 29–31 (Listen) 29 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.3 He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.4 By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts1 tears it down.5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.6 An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices.7 A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.8 Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.9 If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.10 Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright.211 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.12 If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,3 but blessed is he who keeps the law.19 By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.21 Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.422 A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.23 One's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.24 The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.25 The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.26 Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.27 An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked. The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.5 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.62 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those7 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.8 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,9 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.10 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?11 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;127 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.139 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 14 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself15 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1622 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 29:4 Or who taxes heavily [2] 29:10 Or but the upright seek his soul [3] 29:18 Or the people are discouraged [4] 29:21 The meaning of the Hebrew word rendered his heir is uncertain [5] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [6] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [7] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [8] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [9] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [10] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [11] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [12] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [13] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [14] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [15] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [16] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) Psalm: Psalm 75 Psalm 75 (Listen) God Will Judge with Equity To the choirmaster: according to Do Not Destroy. A Psalm of Asaph. A Song. 75 We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We1 recount your wondrous deeds. 2 “At the set time that I appoint I will judge with equity.3 When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants, it is I who keep steady its pillars. Selah4 I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,' and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn;5 do not lift up your horn on high, or speak with haughty neck.'” 6 For not from the east or from the west
Old Testament: Proverbs 29–31 Proverbs 29–31 (Listen) 29 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.3 He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.4 By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts1 tears it down.5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.6 An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices.7 A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.8 Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.9 If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.10 Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright.211 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.12 If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,3 but blessed is he who keeps the law.19 By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.21 Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.422 A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.23 One's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.24 The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.25 The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.26 Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.27 An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked. The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.5 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.62 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those7 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.8 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,9 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.10 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?11 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;127 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.139 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 14 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself15 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1622 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 29:4 Or who taxes heavily [2] 29:10 Or but the upright seek his soul [3] 29:18 Or the people are discouraged [4] 29:21 The meaning of the Hebrew word rendered his heir is uncertain [5] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [6] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [7] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [8] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [9] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [10] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [11] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [12] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [13] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [14] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [15] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [16] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) New Testament: Titus 3:12–15 Titus 3:12–15 (Listen) Final Instructions and Greetings 12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13 Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. 14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful. 15 All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. (ESV) Psalm: Psalm 75 Psalm 75 (Listen) God Will Judge with Equity To the choirmaster: according to Do Not Destroy. A Psalm of Asaph. A Song. 75 We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We1 recount your wondrous deeds. 2 “At the set time that I appoint I will judge with equity.&l
Morning: Proverbs 30–31 Proverbs 30–31 (Listen) The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.1 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.22 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those3 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.4 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,5 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.6 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?7 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;87 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.99 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself11 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1222 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [2] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [3] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [4] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [5] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [6] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [7] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [8] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [9] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [10] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [11] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [12] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) Evening: 2 Corinthians 8 2 Corinthians 8 (Listen) Encouragement to Give Generously 8 We want you to know, brothers,1 about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor2 of taking part in the relief of the saints—5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. 6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. 7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you3—see that you excel in this act of grace also. 8 I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. 10 And in this matter I give my judgment: this benefits you, who a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it. 11 So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have. 12 For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. 13 For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness 14 your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. 15 As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.” Commendation of Titus 16 But thanks be to God, who put into the heart of Titus the same earnest care I have for you. 17 For he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going4 to you of his own accord. 18 With him we are sending5 the brother who is famous among all the churches for his preaching of the gospel. 19 And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will. 20 We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us, 21 for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man. 22 And with them we are sending our brother whom we have often tested and found earnest in many matters, but who is now more earnest than ever because of his great confidence in you. 23 As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker for your benefit. And as for our brothers, they are messengers6 of the churches, the glory of Christ. 24 So give proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you to these men. Footnotes [1] 8:1 Or brothers and sisters [2] 8:4 The Greek word charis can mean favor or grace or thanks, depending on the context [3] 8:7 Some manuscripts in your love for us [4] 8:17 Or he went [5] 8:18 Or we sent; also verse 22 [6] 8:23 Greek apostles (ESV)
Proverbs 30–31 Proverbs 30–31 (Listen) The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.1 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.22 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those3 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.4 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,5 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.6 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?7 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;87 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.99 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself11 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1222 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [2] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [3] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [4] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [5] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [6] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [7] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [8] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [9] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [10] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [11] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [12] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV)
Psalms and Wisdom: Proverbs 31:10–31 Proverbs 31:10–31 (Listen) The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 1 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself2 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.322 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [2] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [3] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) Pentateuch and History: Deuteronomy 29–30:10 Deuteronomy 29–30:10 (Listen) The Covenant Renewed in Moab 29 1 These are the words of the covenant that the LORD commanded Moses to make with the people of Israel in the land of Moab, besides the covenant that he had made with them at Horeb. 2 2 And Moses summoned all Israel and said to them: “You have seen all that the LORD did before your eyes in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to all his land, 3 the great trials that your eyes saw, the signs, and those great wonders. 4 But to this day the LORD has not given you a heart to understand or eyes to see or ears to hear. 5 I have led you forty years in the wilderness. Your clothes have not worn out on you, and your sandals have not worn off your feet. 6 You have not eaten bread, and you have not drunk wine or strong drink, that you may know that I am the LORD your God. 7 And when you came to this place, Sihon the king of Heshbon and Og the king of Bashan came out against us to battle, but we defeated them. 8 We took their land and gave it for an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of the Manassites. 9 Therefore keep the words of this covenant and do them, that you may prosper3 in all that you do. 10 “You are standing today, all of you, before the LORD your God: the heads of your tribes,4 your elders, and your officers, all the men of Israel, 11 your little ones, your wives, and the sojourner who is in your camp, from the one who chops your wood to the one who draws your water, 12 so that you may enter into the sworn covenant of the LORD your God, which the LORD your God is making with you today, 13 that he may establish you today as his people, and that he may be your God, as he promised you, and as he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. 14 It is not with you alone that I am making this sworn covenant, 15 but with whoever is standing here with us today before the LORD our God, and with whoever is not here with us today. 16 “You know how we lived in the land of Egypt, and how we came through the midst of the nations through which you passed. 17 And you have seen their detestable things, their idols of wood and stone, of silver and gold, which were among them. 18 Beware lest there be among you a man or woman or clan or tribe whose heart is turning away today from the LORD our God to go and serve the gods of those nations. Beware lest there be among you a root bearing poisonous and bitter fruit, 19 one who, when he hears the words of this sworn covenant, blesses himself in his heart, saying, ‘I shall be safe, though I walk in the stubbornness of my heart.' This will lead to the sweeping away of moist and dry alike. 20 The LORD will not be willing to forgive him, but rather the anger of the LORD and his jealousy will smoke against that man, and the curses written in this book will settle upon him, and the LORD will blot out his name from under heaven. 21 And the LORD will single him out from all the tribes of Israel for calamity, in accordance with all the curses of the covenant written in this Book of the Law. 22 And the next generation, your children who rise up after you, and the foreigner who comes from a far land, will say, when they see the afflictions of that land and the sicknesses with which the LORD has made it sick—23 the whole land burned out with brimstone and salt, nothing sown and nothing growing, where no plant can sprout, an overthrow like that of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, which the LORD overthrew in his anger and wrath—24 all the nations will say, ‘Why has the LORD done thus to this land? What caused the heat of this great anger?' 25 Then people will say, ‘It is because they abandoned the covenant of the LORD, the God of their fathers, which he made with them when he brought them out of the land of Egypt, 26 and went and served other gods and worshiped them, gods whom they had not known and whom he had not allotted to them. 27 Therefore the anger of the LORD was kindled against this land, bringing upon it all the curses written in this book, 28 and the LORD uprooted them from their land in anger and fury and great wrath, and cast them into another land, as they are this day.' 29 “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. Repentance and Forgiveness 30 “And when all these things come upon you, the blessing and the curse, which I have set before you, and you call them to mind among all the nations where the LORD your God has driven you, 2 and return to the LORD your God, you and your children, and obey his voice in all that I command you today, with all your heart and with all your soul, 3 then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes and have mercy on you, and he will gather you again from all the peoples where the LORD your God has scattered you. 4 If your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there the LORD your God will gather you, and from there he will take you. 5 And the LORD your God will bring you into the land that your fathers possessed, that you may possess it. And he will make you more prosperous and numerous than your fathers. 6 And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live. 7 And the LORD your God will put all these curses on your foes and enemies who persecuted you. 8 And you shall again obey the voice of the LORD and keep all his commandments that I command you today. 9 The LORD your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your cattle and in the fruit of your ground. For the LORD will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers, 10 when you obey the voice of the LORD your God, to keep his commandments and his statutes that are written in this Book of the Law, when you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Footnotes [1] 29:1 Ch 28:69 in Hebrew [2] 29:2 Ch 29:1 in Hebrew [3] 29:9 Or deal wisely [4] 29:10 Septuagint, Syriac; Hebrew your heads, your tribes (ESV) Chronicles and Prophets: Micah 6 Micah 6 (Listen) The Indictment of the Lord 6 Hear what the LORD says: Arise, plead your case before the mountains, and let the hills hear your voice.2 Hear, you mountains, the indictment of the LORD, and you enduring foundations of the earth, for the LORD has an indictment against his people, and he will contend with Israel. 3 “O my people, what have I done to you? How have I wearied you? Answer me!4 For I brought you up from the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of slavery, and I sent before you Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.5 O my people, remember what Balak king of Moab devised, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him, and what happened from Shittim to Gilgal, that you may know the righteous acts of the LORD.” What Does the Lord Require? 6 “With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?7 Will the LORD be pleased with1 thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?”8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness,2 and to walk humbly with your God? Destruction of the Wicked 9 The voice of the LORD cries to the city— and it is sound wisdom to fear your name: “Hear of the rod and of him who appointed it!310 Can I forget any longer the treasures4 of wickedness in the house of the wicked, and the scant measure that is accursed?11 Shall I acquit the man with wicked scales and with a bag of deceitful weights?12 Your5 rich men are full of violence; your inhabitants speak lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth.13 Therefore I strike you with a grievous blow, making you desolate because of your sins.14 You shall eat, but not be satisfied, and there shall be hunger within you; you shall put away, but not preserve, and what you preserve I will give to the sword.15 You shall sow, but not reap; you shall tread olives, but not anoint yourselves with oil; you shall tread grapes, but not drink wine.16 For you have kept the statutes of Omri,6 and all the works of the house of Ahab; and you have walked in their counsels, that I may make you a desolation, and your7 inhabitants a hissing; so you shall bear the scorn of my people.” Footnotes [1] 6:7 Or Will the Lord accept [2] 6:8 Or steadfast love [3] 6:9 The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain [4] 6:10 Or Are there still treasures [5] 6:12 Hebrew whose [6] 6:16 Hebrew For the statutes of Omri are kept [7] 6:16 Hebrew its (ESV) Gospels and Epistles: Matthew 7:1–12 Matthew 7:1–12 (Listen) Judging Others 7 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. 6 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. Ask, and It Will Be Given 7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 9 Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! The Golden Rule 12 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (ESV)
We hope you enjoy today's Scripture reading and devotional aimed at motivating you to apply God's word while strengthening your heart and nurturing your soul. Today's Bible reading is Proverbs 31:10–31. To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional. Browse other resources from Lydia Brownback. ESV Bible narration read by Kristyn Getty. Follow us on social media to stay up to date: Instagram Facebook Twitter
In this special Mother's Day message, Pastor Fawn shares the value of a woman who fears the Lord! You will be inspired and encouraged! Authentic Church Authentic Church is a Bible-based, Spirit-empowered, Presence-driven church in Orange County with the mission to Love God, Love People, and Live Authentic. Our Vision is to Encounter God, Discover Community, and Fulfill God's call on our lives. For service times and info, please visit us online or via our social media platforms: AuthenticOC.com To stay up to date on all things Authentic, text the word “Authentic” to 94000 Subscribe to receive our latest messages! #Foundations #ChristianDoctrine #AuthenticChurch #OrangeCountyChurch #HolyBible #JesusPeople #JesusRevolution #Revival #MothersDay We would be honored if you would like to support this ministry and help us continue to reach people with the authentic gospel.. click here: https://pushpay.com/g/authenticoc Love God. Love People. Live Authentic. Stay Connected Website: https://authenticoc.com/ Authentic Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticChurchOC/ Authentic Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticchurchoc/ Authentic Church YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWxskUerFuBNhLZI3wpqzlg A Woman Who Fears The Lord | Pastor Fawn Peterson
Welcome to the Spark Influence Podcast, where we explore the power of positive influence in our daily lives. I'm Misty Phillip and today, I want to encourage my fellow moms. Today I'm flying solo because I want to be discuss the importance of biblical motherhood and the impact it can have on our families and communities. Motherhood is an incredible journey, full of joys and challenges. It's a journey that requires patience, love, and sacrifice. As we navigate this path, it can be easy to get caught up in the daily grind and lose sight of the bigger picture. But when we look to the Bible for guidance, we can find wisdom and encouragement to help us on this journey. Proverbs 31:10-31 The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 [d] An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself[e] with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.[f]22 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31 is a beautiful passage that describes the qualities of a virtuous woman. This woman is a wife and a mother, and she is praised for her hard work, her wisdom, and her kindness. She is a woman who fears the Lord, and her children rise up and call her blessed. As mothers, we can learn a lot from this passage. We can strive to be women of integrity, who work hard to provide for our families and create a loving home environment. We can seek wisdom from the Lord and ask Him to guide us as we raise our children. Biblical Examples of Strong Moms As we study the Bible we find countless examples of strong and faithful mothers who raised children who went on to do great things. One such example is Jochebed, the mother of Moses. She was a Hebrew woman living in Egypt during a time when Pharaoh had ordered all Hebrew baby boys to be killed. But Jochebed refused to give up on her son and placed him in a basket in the Nile River, trusting that God would protect him. Jochebed Through God's grace, Moses was rescued by Pharaoh's daughter and grew up to become a great leader of the Israelites, leading them out of slavery in Egypt. Jochebed's faith and determination remind us that even in the face of difficult circumstances, God can work miracles through the love and dedication of a mother. Hannah Another example is Hannah, the mother of Samuel. Hannah was unable to have children, and she prayed fervently to God for a son. When God blessed her with Samuel, she dedicated him to God's service and raised him to be a faithful prophet. Hannah's story shows us that even when we face disappointment or hardship, we can turn to God in prayer and trust that He has a plan for our lives and our children's lives. As mothers, we can learn so much from these biblical examples. We can be encouraged that our efforts in raising our children in the ways of the Lord can have a lasting impact. We can trust that God is with us every step of the way and that He will equip us with everything we need to be the best mothers we can be. Modeling the Christian Life One of the most important things we can do as mothers is to model a life of faith for our children. We can teach them about God's love and grace, and show them what it means to live a life that honors Him. We can pray for our children and ask God to protect them and guide them on their own faith journeys. We can read, study, and memorize scripture together. Motherhood both challenging and rewarding! Motherhood can be challenging, but it's also one of the most rewarding roles we can have in life. When we embrace biblical motherhood, we can experience the joy of seeing our children grow and thrive, and we can make a positive impact on our families and communities. Mom your work is valuable, your love is powerful, and your influence is eternal. Keep pressing on, and trust in God's grace to guide you through every moment of motherhood. Verses that have encouraged me in my motherhood journey I want to share a few scriptures that have encouraged me in my motherhood journey. Proverbs 22:6 ESV "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." 3 John 4 ESV says, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." Hebrews 12:1 ESV "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" Galatians 6:9 ESV -"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." So, to all the mothers out there listening today, I want to encourage you to keep pressing on. Remember that you are loved and valued by God, and that He has entrusted you with the incredible responsibility of raising your children. Seek His guidance and wisdom, and trust Him to help you on this journey. Thank you for tuning in to the Spark Influence Podcast. Join us next time as we continue to explore the power of positive influence in our lives.
Proverbs 30–31 Proverbs 30–31 (Listen) The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.1 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.22 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those3 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.4 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,5 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.6 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?7 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;87 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.99 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself11 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1222 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [2] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [3] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [4] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [5] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [6] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [7] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [8] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [9] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [10] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [11] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [12] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV)
With family: Leviticus 17; Psalms 20–21 Leviticus 17 (Listen) The Place of Sacrifice 17 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Speak to Aaron and his sons and to all the people of Israel and say to them, This is the thing that the LORD has commanded. 3 If any one of the house of Israel kills an ox or a lamb or a goat in the camp, or kills it outside the camp, 4 and does not bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting to offer it as a gift to the LORD in front of the tabernacle of the LORD, bloodguilt shall be imputed to that man. He has shed blood, and that man shall be cut off from among his people. 5 This is to the end that the people of Israel may bring their sacrifices that they sacrifice in the open field, that they may bring them to the LORD, to the priest at the entrance of the tent of meeting, and sacrifice them as sacrifices of peace offerings to the LORD. 6 And the priest shall throw the blood on the altar of the LORD at the entrance of the tent of meeting and burn the fat for a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 7 So they shall no more sacrifice their sacrifices to goat demons, after whom they whore. This shall be a statute forever for them throughout their generations. 8 “And you shall say to them, Any one of the house of Israel, or of the strangers who sojourn among them, who offers a burnt offering or sacrifice 9 and does not bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting to offer it to the LORD, that man shall be cut off from his people. Laws Against Eating Blood 10 “If any one of the house of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn among them eats any blood, I will set my face against that person who eats blood and will cut him off from among his people. 11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life. 12 Therefore I have said to the people of Israel, No person among you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger who sojourns among you eat blood. 13 “Any one also of the people of Israel, or of the strangers who sojourn among them, who takes in hunting any beast or bird that may be eaten shall pour out its blood and cover it with earth. 14 For the life of every creature1 is its blood: its blood is its life.2 Therefore I have said to the people of Israel, You shall not eat the blood of any creature, for the life of every creature is its blood. Whoever eats it shall be cut off. 15 And every person who eats what dies of itself or what is torn by beasts, whether he is a native or a sojourner, shall wash his clothes and bathe himself in water and be unclean until the evening; then he shall be clean. 16 But if he does not wash them or bathe his flesh, he shall bear his iniquity.” Footnotes [1] 17:14 Hebrew all flesh [2] 17:14 Hebrew it is in its life (ESV) Psalms 20–21 (Listen) Trust in the Name of the Lord Our God To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. 20 May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob protect you!2 May he send you help from the sanctuary and give you support from Zion!3 May he remember all your offerings and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices! Selah 4 May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!5 May we shout for joy over your salvation, and in the name of our God set up our banners! May the LORD fulfill all your petitions! 6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with the saving might of his right hand.7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.8 They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright. 9 O LORD, save the king! May he answer us when we call. The King Rejoices in the Lord's Strength To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. 21 O LORD, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults!2 You have given him his heart's desire and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah3 For you meet him with rich blessings; you set a crown of fine gold upon his head.4 He asked life of you; you gave it to him, length of days forever and ever.5 His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him.6 For you make him most blessed forever;1 you make him glad with the joy of your presence.7 For the king trusts in the LORD, and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved. 8 Your hand will find out all your enemies; your right hand will find out those who hate you.9 You will make them as a blazing oven when you appear. The LORD will swallow them up in his wrath, and fire will consume them.10 You will destroy their descendants from the earth, and their offspring from among the children of man.11 Though they plan evil against you, though they devise mischief, they will not succeed.12 For you will put them to flight; you will aim at their faces with your bows. 13 Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power. Footnotes [1] 21:6 Or make him a source of blessing forever (ESV) In private: Proverbs 31; 1 Timothy 2 Proverbs 31 (Listen) The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?1 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;27 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.39 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 4 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself5 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.622 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [2] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [3] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [4] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [5] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [6] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) 1 Timothy 2 (Listen) Pray for All People 2 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man1 Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; 9 likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, 10 but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. 11 Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. 15 Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control. Footnotes [1] 2:5 men and man render the same Greek word that is translated people in verses 1 and 4 (ESV)
Brian Grasso is the CEO and founder of Simple Charity. When he was in high school, Brian was drawn to the intersection of the gospel and global poverty. He, along with a number of other high school students, set a goal to raise $100,000 through a variety of fundraisers to fuel organizations working in that space. That effort continued to grow into the nonprofit that Brian leads today, which operates at college campuses across the country. Simple Charity inspires Christian students to grow in solidarity with people experiencing poverty and injustice through multiple creative programs and initiatives. And deeply entwined with their message is the invitation to radical generosity. Brian had plenty to say on topics including: The challenges and benefits of reaching college students with the message of generosity The opportunities that exist today in reaching students How Simple Charity approaches vetting ministries How to stay grounded and energized when working in the nonprofit sector How he stays rooted in the Word QUOTES TO REMEMBER “We have a God who is generous towards us who wants us to live the good life of grace and abundance, and part of that life is caring for the poor.” “It's such a wonderful blessing to do meaningful work with people that you enjoy” “The word of God has the power to transform our hearts” “God wants us, rather than what we can do for him.” “There is always enough time to do the things that are most important. What changes is what is most important.” “Every seed that's planted is an opportunity to see God work.” “The most important thing is seeking the Kingdom of God” “Solidarity with the poor starts by learning from the poor, by seeing their abundance.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW Crazy Love by Francis Chan Heart for Africa (see our interview with COO Janine Maxwell) Biblingo The Great Opportunity Journey to Generosity (JoG) with Generous Giving (see our interviews with cofounder, Todd Harper and CEO, April Chapman) All Access International When Helping Hurts (see our interview with coauthor Brian Fikkert) The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Matthew 25:35-40 | I Was Hungry and You Gave Me Food For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you and when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me. 2 Corinthians 8:9 | He Became Poor For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. Proverbs 31:10-31 | The Woman Who Fears the Lord Matthew 5:3 | Blessed are the Poor in Spirit “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Trying to find the right balance as a Christian woman is certainly a major challenge for most of us. I find that I must fight not to be caught up in what others think I should be. Rather I want to focus on the characteristics of a godly woman, and as Proverbs 31:30 tells us, a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. We should not fear: What people say or think about us Frankly, that can be a hard one for us women, because our natures are often inclined to be people-pleasers, and we will do most anything to avoid rejection. So, we can easily care too much about what people say or think. Sometimes I find myself fearful of looking irrelevant because I have aspirations and beliefs that are not in sync with the norm for women today. Let's face it—we like to think of ourselves as sophisticated and “cool.” And quite honestly, there are times when I feel like the country-bumpkin, even among some Christian women who seem to be more "in tune" than I am. But I have to keep going back to who I am—a woman who wants to please God. That means, I must fear the Lord, and not fear looking dumb or backwards. If we live godly lives in this society, we're going to look weird at times. Be prepared for it. And ask God to help you not to fear what people say or think. That also means I must not fear: What people can do to me. A boss can fire you, a boyfriend or husband can leave you, a child can disobey you, a parent can disappoint you, a friend can be disloyal to you. There are many things that people can do to you, and if you live in fear of those things, your life will be a constant emotional roller-coaster. Remember, no one can separate you from the love of Jesus, and as long as they cannot do that, then we don't have to live in fear of what people can do. "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised.” Let's make that our goal in life, to be a woman who fears the Lord. (Click here to download the devotional for the entire week.)
Trying to find the right balance as a Christian woman is certainly a major challenge for most of us. I find that I must fight not to be caught up in what others think I should be. Rather I want to focus on the characteristics of a godly woman, and as Proverbs 31:30 tells us, a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. We should not fear: What people say or think about us Frankly, that can be a hard one for us women, because our natures are often inclined to be people-pleasers, and we will do most anything to avoid rejection. So, we can easily care too much about what people say or think. Sometimes I find myself fearful of looking irrelevant because I have aspirations and beliefs that are not in sync with the norm for women today. Let's face it—we like to think of ourselves as sophisticated and “cool.” And quite honestly, there are times when I feel like the country-bumpkin, even among some Christian women who seem to be more "in tune" than I am. But I have to keep going back to who I am—a woman who wants to please God. That means, I must fear the Lord, and not fear looking dumb or backwards. If we live godly lives in this society, we're going to look weird at times. Be prepared for it. And ask God to help you not to fear what people say or think. That also means I must not fear: What people can do to me. A boss can fire you, a boyfriend or husband can leave you, a child can disobey you, a parent can disappoint you, a friend can be disloyal to you. There are many things that people can do to you, and if you live in fear of those things, your life will be a constant emotional roller-coaster. Remember, no one can separate you from the love of Jesus, and as long as they cannot do that, then we don't have to live in fear of what people can do. "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised.” Let's make that our goal in life, to be a woman who fears the Lord. (Click here to download the devotional for the entire week.)
What are you fearful of today? Did you know that we should be women of fear? The Proverbs 31 woman is described as a "woman who feared the Lord" and she was praised. This is the most important lesson we can learn from this ideal woman. Are you a woman who fears the Lord? If so, there are some specific things you will fear, and one of those is: The fear of getting off on some issue and losing the right focus One of the things that I fear greatly is getting out of balance and becoming an issue-oriented woman instead of a God-fearing woman. It would be very easy to do in this society with my personality, believe me. And I fear it, because I know that is one way Satan gets his foot in our doors. Many women in the last couple of generations have focused their lives and energies on righting all the wrongs done to women. To be sure there have been and still are discriminatory practices in our culture—including Christian institutions—which can be criticized, which should be changed, and which are not fair. And we may have some opportunities to try to effect some of those needed changes. That's fine in its proper place. But for us to become issue-oriented on women's rights so that the issue is more important to us than anything else is to be shoved into the world's mold of fighting for your rights. I keep reminding myself that the only way I can really help any woman is to point her to Jesus, who can free her from her sins and give her peace. Then she'll be free indeed. Paul wrote to the Romans that we are all slaves either of sin or of Christ. So instead of being in bondage to some issue, or becoming obsessive about fighting for our rights, I want to encourage women—and everyone else—to become slaves of righteousness, because when we die to ourselves we find life in Christ. I could help further the cause of women's rights 'til I'm blue in the face, and any progress made would be useless if the women are still slaves to sin. I want to fear not hearing the Lord say to me, "Well done, good and faithful servant," for I will stand before him someday for my life's work to be judged. I fear wasting the time and energy I have on things and issues that are not of eternal significance. That is godly fear.
What are you fearful of today? Did you know that we should be women of fear? The Proverbs 31 woman is described as a "woman who feared the Lord" and she was praised. This is the most important lesson we can learn from this ideal woman. Are you a woman who fears the Lord? If so, there are some specific things you will fear, and one of those is: The fear of getting off on some issue and losing the right focus One of the things that I fear greatly is getting out of balance and becoming an issue-oriented woman instead of a God-fearing woman. It would be very easy to do in this society with my personality, believe me. And I fear it, because I know that is one way Satan gets his foot in our doors. Many women in the last couple of generations have focused their lives and energies on righting all the wrongs done to women. To be sure there have been and still are discriminatory practices in our culture—including Christian institutions—which can be criticized, which should be changed, and which are not fair. And we may have some opportunities to try to effect some of those needed changes. That's fine in its proper place. But for us to become issue-oriented on women's rights so that the issue is more important to us than anything else is to be shoved into the world's mold of fighting for your rights. I keep reminding myself that the only way I can really help any woman is to point her to Jesus, who can free her from her sins and give her peace. Then she'll be free indeed. Paul wrote to the Romans that we are all slaves either of sin or of Christ. So instead of being in bondage to some issue, or becoming obsessive about fighting for our rights, I want to encourage women—and everyone else—to become slaves of righteousness, because when we die to ourselves we find life in Christ. I could help further the cause of women's rights 'til I'm blue in the face, and any progress made would be useless if the women are still slaves to sin. I want to fear not hearing the Lord say to me, "Well done, good and faithful servant," for I will stand before him someday for my life's work to be judged. I fear wasting the time and energy I have on things and issues that are not of eternal significance. That is godly fear.
No matter who you are, how qualified or successful you may or may not be, if you are a woman who fears the Lord, you will be praised. That was the heart of this remarkable woman—she feared the Lord, and we can do that, too. If we truly fear the Lord, we will fear bringing disgrace to his name. Another holy fear is Causing any kind of dissension or disunity in the body of Christ Paul wrote to the Romans: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (Rom. 12:18). And Jesus told us to love one another as he has loved us. "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). Are you fearful of causing bad feelings among your friends and fellow believers? That is a godly fear, and we need to cultivate that kind of fear. That loose gossip which we tolerate in our lives, those unkind words we say to each other, that competitive spirit and malice which is evident in the way we treat each other—those are things we should fear greatly. If you have bad feelings right now toward someone, would you start praying about that and ask God what he wants you to do about it? He may want you to go to that person and ask for forgiveness and have your fellowship restored. If so, please don't put it off. The longer you wait, the heavier that burden will be. Until you make things right between you and others, you'll never be the godly woman you want to be. Is your fear of people stronger than your fear of the Lord? If you really fear the Lord, it will be more important to you to get your relationships right than it will be to save face with your friends or family. Maybe you're fearing rejection by others, and that keeps you from restoring fellowship with them. But ask God to give you a holy fear—the fear of the Lord—which will be stronger than your fear of people, so that you can do what he wants you to do. "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Keep repeating this verse over and over to yourself and ask God to make you a woman who fears the Lord.
No matter who you are, how qualified or successful you may or may not be, if you are a woman who fears the Lord, you will be praised. That was the heart of this remarkable woman—she feared the Lord, and we can do that, too. If we truly fear the Lord, we will fear bringing disgrace to his name. Another holy fear is Causing any kind of dissension or disunity in the body of Christ Paul wrote to the Romans: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (Rom. 12:18). And Jesus told us to love one another as he has loved us. "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). Are you fearful of causing bad feelings among your friends and fellow believers? That is a godly fear, and we need to cultivate that kind of fear. That loose gossip which we tolerate in our lives, those unkind words we say to each other, that competitive spirit and malice which is evident in the way we treat each other—those are things we should fear greatly. If you have bad feelings right now toward someone, would you start praying about that and ask God what he wants you to do about it? He may want you to go to that person and ask for forgiveness and have your fellowship restored. If so, please don't put it off. The longer you wait, the heavier that burden will be. Until you make things right between you and others, you'll never be the godly woman you want to be. Is your fear of people stronger than your fear of the Lord? If you really fear the Lord, it will be more important to you to get your relationships right than it will be to save face with your friends or family. Maybe you're fearing rejection by others, and that keeps you from restoring fellowship with them. But ask God to give you a holy fear—the fear of the Lord—which will be stronger than your fear of people, so that you can do what he wants you to do. "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Keep repeating this verse over and over to yourself and ask God to make you a woman who fears the Lord.
"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” You probably recognize that verse from the famous 31st chapter of Proverbs, which describes a godly woman. The one thing that made this woman significant was that she feared the Lord. I want to be a godly woman, and I'm sure you do, too. So, how do we become a woman who fears the Lord? What does that mean? This fear is reverential awe—a fear that comes from knowing enough about God to be in awe of his power, his holiness, his sovereignty. An awe that springs from love and devotion. First, let's talk about what we should fear if we fear the Lord. I should fear bringing any kind of disgrace to the name of Jesus. Psalm 69:6 is a prayer of David's which I have written in my prayer journal and I pray often: "May those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me, God of Israel; may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.” Do you fear doing something that will cause the name of Jesus to be dishonored? That is a godly fear; it is the fear of the Lord. We've seen many times over, both in public and private arenas, where Christians have strayed morally and ethically, and brought disgrace to the name of the Lord. I have a great fear of doing that and I hope I always will. Why am I fearful of bringing disgrace to the name of the Lord? One, because I know how weak I am and how easy it would be for me to fall. That's true of all of us. Two, because the thought of breaking his heart through a moral failure breaks my heart. And third, because I know I would lose so much; my ministry and freedom to serve the Lord would be greatly impacted if I brought disgrace to his name. When you have a holy fear of bringing disgrace to God's name, you will watch the way you live very closely. No temporary thrill can entice you to pay this awful price, when you truly fear the Lord as you should.
"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” You probably recognize that verse from the famous 31st chapter of Proverbs, which describes a godly woman. The one thing that made this woman significant was that she feared the Lord. I want to be a godly woman, and I'm sure you do, too. So, how do we become a woman who fears the Lord? What does that mean? This fear is reverential awe—a fear that comes from knowing enough about God to be in awe of his power, his holiness, his sovereignty. An awe that springs from love and devotion. First, let's talk about what we should fear if we fear the Lord. I should fear bringing any kind of disgrace to the name of Jesus. Psalm 69:6 is a prayer of David's which I have written in my prayer journal and I pray often: "May those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me, God of Israel; may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.” Do you fear doing something that will cause the name of Jesus to be dishonored? That is a godly fear; it is the fear of the Lord. We've seen many times over, both in public and private arenas, where Christians have strayed morally and ethically, and brought disgrace to the name of the Lord. I have a great fear of doing that and I hope I always will. Why am I fearful of bringing disgrace to the name of the Lord? One, because I know how weak I am and how easy it would be for me to fall. That's true of all of us. Two, because the thought of breaking his heart through a moral failure breaks my heart. And third, because I know I would lose so much; my ministry and freedom to serve the Lord would be greatly impacted if I brought disgrace to his name. When you have a holy fear of bringing disgrace to God's name, you will watch the way you live very closely. No temporary thrill can entice you to pay this awful price, when you truly fear the Lord as you should.
Have you ever read Proverbs 31 and felt like quitting? I get tired when I read about the superwoman pictured in that famous last chapter of Proverbs. What woman can live up to this ideal? Well, I'm encouraged to realize that this is most likely not the description of a specific woman, but a picture of the characteristics of a godly woman. And if you will focus on verse 30 of that chapter, you will be encouraged: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. The beauty of this Proverbs 31 woman is that she feared the Lord. Her central focus was not to please people, not to set new records, not to prove she could do anything she wanted to, not to fight for her rights, but it was to fear the Lord. If you and I want to be like this ideal woman, then what we must learn to do is fear the Lord, because then we will be women to be praised by God. Any woman can be a woman who fears the Lord if she chooses to. There may be many things you cannot do, many avenues that will never be open to you, many mountains you'll never climb, many awards you'll never win. You may think you are insignificant compared to other women and what they do. But take heart today; you can be a woman to be praised if you will fear the Lord. Throughout time women have often been characterized as deceptive and manipulative, and physical beauty has always been the world's way of measuring a woman. But when I read that charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, it tells me that these shallow and non-durable characteristics—charm and beauty—are not God's criteria, and we are not bound by them. Women today are often very focused on being free from stereotypes and traditional roles. This Proverbs 31 woman found her freedom by fearing the Lord, and believe me, that's where we will find ours. Let me tell you, as one who has tried it both ways, true freedom comes when you commit yourself to be God's woman and make him the central focus of your life. What does it mean to be a woman who fears the Lord? Have you given that any thought?
Have you ever read Proverbs 31 and felt like quitting? I get tired when I read about the superwoman pictured in that famous last chapter of Proverbs. What woman can live up to this ideal? Well, I'm encouraged to realize that this is most likely not the description of a specific woman, but a picture of the characteristics of a godly woman. And if you will focus on verse 30 of that chapter, you will be encouraged: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. The beauty of this Proverbs 31 woman is that she feared the Lord. Her central focus was not to please people, not to set new records, not to prove she could do anything she wanted to, not to fight for her rights, but it was to fear the Lord. If you and I want to be like this ideal woman, then what we must learn to do is fear the Lord, because then we will be women to be praised by God. Any woman can be a woman who fears the Lord if she chooses to. There may be many things you cannot do, many avenues that will never be open to you, many mountains you'll never climb, many awards you'll never win. You may think you are insignificant compared to other women and what they do. But take heart today; you can be a woman to be praised if you will fear the Lord. Throughout time women have often been characterized as deceptive and manipulative, and physical beauty has always been the world's way of measuring a woman. But when I read that charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, it tells me that these shallow and non-durable characteristics—charm and beauty—are not God's criteria, and we are not bound by them. Women today are often very focused on being free from stereotypes and traditional roles. This Proverbs 31 woman found her freedom by fearing the Lord, and believe me, that's where we will find ours. Let me tell you, as one who has tried it both ways, true freedom comes when you commit yourself to be God's woman and make him the central focus of your life. What does it mean to be a woman who fears the Lord? Have you given that any thought?
Old Testament: Proverbs 29–31 Proverbs 29–31 (Listen) 29 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.3 He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.4 By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts1 tears it down.5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.6 An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices.7 A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.8 Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.9 If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.10 Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright.211 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.12 If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,3 but blessed is he who keeps the law.19 By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.21 Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.422 A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.23 One's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.24 The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.25 The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.26 Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.27 An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked. The Words of Agur 30 The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.5 The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.62 Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man.3 I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.4 Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know! 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6 Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. 7 Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9 lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God. 10 Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty. 11 There are those7 who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.12 There are those who are clean in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth.13 There are those—how lofty are their eyes, how high their eyelids lift!14 There are those whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, the needy from among mankind. 15 The leech has two daughters: Give and Give.8 Three things are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough”:16 Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” 17 The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures. 18 Three things are too wonderful for me; four I do not understand:19 the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a virgin. 20 This is the way of an adulteress: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I have done no wrong.” 21 Under three things the earth trembles; under four it cannot bear up:22 a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is filled with food;23 an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she displaces her mistress. 24 Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise:25 the ants are a people not strong, yet they provide their food in the summer;26 the rock badgers are a people not mighty, yet they make their homes in the cliffs;27 the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank;28 the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in kings' palaces. 29 Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride:30 the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any;31 the strutting rooster,9 the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.10 32 If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, put your hand on your mouth.33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife. The Words of King Lemuel 31 The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him: 2 What are you doing, my son?11 What are you doing, son of my womb? What are you doing, son of my vows?3 Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink,5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;127 let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.139 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 14 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar.15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.17 She dresses herself15 with strength and makes her arms strong.18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night.19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.1622 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant.25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Footnotes [1] 29:4 Or who taxes heavily [2] 29:10 Or but the upright seek his soul [3] 29:18 Or the people are discouraged [4] 29:21 The meaning of the Hebrew word rendered his heir is uncertain [5] 30:1 Or Jakeh, the man of Massa [6] 30:1 Revocalization; Hebrew The man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal [7] 30:11 Hebrew There is a generation; also verses 12, 13, 14 [8] 30:15 Or “Give, give,” they cry [9] 30:31 Or the magpie, or the greyhound; Hebrew girt-of-loins [10] 30:31 Or against whom there is no rising up [11] 31:2 Hebrew What, my son? [12] 31:6 Hebrew those bitter in soul [13] 31:8 Hebrew are sons of passing away [14] 31:10 Verses 10–31 are an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [15] 31:17 Hebrew She girds her loins [16] 31:21 Or in double thickness (ESV) Psalm: Psalm 75 Psalm 75 (Listen) God Will Judge with Equity To the choirmaster: according to Do Not Destroy. A Psalm of Asaph. A Song. 75 We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We1 recount your wondrous deeds. 2 “At the set time that I appoint I will judge with equity.3 When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants, it is I who keep steady its pillars. Selah4 I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,' and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn;5 do not lift up your horn on high, or speak with haughty neck.'” 6 For not from the east or from the west
A woman who fears the Lord will not run away from God to satisfy her longings and relieve her anxieties. She will stay close to the heart of God and trust in his promises.
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