June 19. Proverbs 31.
Hey everyone, how do you feel about the Proverbs 31 woman? Does she exhaust you? Encourage you? Inspire you? Irritate you? I love that she is so competent. In a day when women were not treated well, this lady was managing real estate and handling a small business venture. She managed a household that included serving maids, as well. So … first of all … I feel I could do a bit more if I had lots of serving maids. Ha! Seriously, I love that she is portrayed as a good wife and mom, and also a good manager. I love that she cares for the poor. I love that she is not afraid of old age. Oh my. So much to emulate! I fall far short in many areas, but I do learn every time I read about her. Despite all that, God has been working on my heart in a different area, so my verse came from the first section of Proverbs 31.
My verse: Proverbs 31:8 “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.”
My response: Father, this time reading through Proverbs, You have brought me again and again and again to the inescapable responsibility that those who have much have for those who have nothing. King Lemuel’s mother made sure he knew that he had a responsibility to help the destitute. What does “for the rights of the destitute” mean? What rights? Perhaps the right to be treated with respect? Maybe the right to receive a fair wage for work rendered? Hmmm … how about the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?” Lord, I need to learn more. Please teach me and show me how I can serve more in this way. Thank You for the way You speak through Your Word. I want to watch for where You would have me help in the days ahead.
