Proverbs 31

I decided that today I'd write about my inspiration for all of the changes in my blog and life lately. And that is Proverbs 31. Proverbs 31:10-31 gives all of the attributes of a noble woman. And I so desperately want to be like this woman!

Proverbs 31:10-31

"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor, and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household, and she does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the award she has earned; and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

What a woman!! I know that no one is perfect, and I will never quite live up to all of those lofty standards. But I would like to devote my life to trying!

I think service starts at home. For me, it is easier for me to serve people who are needy. It is very rewarding, and those people really deserve it. However, it can be more difficult to serve at home. My husband doesn't always notice or appreciate what I do, and sometimes I feel like he doesn't deserve it (which is a bad attitude!) But then I remember another piece of scripture: Colossians 2:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."

Oops...I guess I have no excuses, now! God deserves all that I can give, and so much more! So what will I do today to take baby steps toward a more noble and virtuous life? Get to work! Instead of watching TV I'm going to finish the laundry that I've been putting off, clean all the clutter that's lying around the house. I'm going to think of little things I can do to make today a special day for Luke and I. What "Proverbs 31" act will you perform today?