In our study of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31 we have reached the thirteenth verse: “She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.”
The Virtuous Woman is Diligent.
The lady of whom we read could never be portrayed as lazy. Here we are told that she seeks wool and flax. She goes about the business of gathering what she needs for her family; she is not waiting for someone to bring things to her.
She works, completing the tasks set before her with steady effort, persevering through difficulties that may arise. What is her attitude about all that she must accomplish? She works willingly. Ah, there is much to be learned here. She doesn’t complain to her family or friends about all that she has to do. She accepts her responsibilities and goes about fulfilling them with a servant’s heart.
She works with her hands. Our hands minister in so many ways to our families! From kneading bread to peeling potatoes, folding laundry to washing dishes, brushing a child’s hair to mending a pair of pants, the hands of a wife and mother serve each family member.
This week may I follow her example, working diligently with a cheerful spirit, using my hands to meet the needs of my family and others around me.
momstheword says
September 13, 2010 at 2:09 amBeautiful post, Tracey. As you said, she doesn't wait for someone to bring everything to her. She sets about doing what she needs do.
Her love motivates her. Love can be a powerful motivation, can't it? Thank you for reminding us to serve cheerfully and for linking up to Making Your Home Sing Monday.
Cindy says
September 13, 2010 at 3:39 pmTracey, thank you for such a wonderful post and reminder this morning. I strive to be a virtuous woman like our Proverbs woman, but sometimes fail miserably. I needed this reminder today. Again thanks.
Hope you have a blessed week.
Hugs!
Tracey says
September 13, 2010 at 4:18 pmCindy,
Thank you for taking the time to read and comment. As I stated at the beginning of this series, I am always hesitant to post on such topics as I know how much I struggle with them myself. Thank God for His continuing grace and strength!
MommaMindy says
September 13, 2010 at 5:38 pmMaybe this is why my hands look so old after 25 years of marriage! But, I don't regret the toll on my hands, because the work has made an impact on lives for the Lord. Thanks for the encouraging post.
Tracey says
September 13, 2010 at 6:27 pmMindy,
I am sure that in the eyes of God and your family, your hands are beautiful!!
Sherry @ Lamp Unto My Feet says
September 14, 2010 at 1:45 amLove the pic and post! Definitely want to be the virtuous woman. Thank you for sharing!
Brandi says
September 14, 2010 at 5:27 pmThank you for this lovely post. Unfortunately, I am far from being a Proverbs 31 woman, but I desire to be one! I need these reminders on a daily basis!
Blessings!
Brandi
Clara says
September 28, 2010 at 10:28 amWorking willingly can be hard sometimes – but it is so worth it to work on our attitudes. I find singing praises to the Lord while I work to help my attitude and give me joy as I serve when I'm struggling. 🙂