The Proverbs 31 Woman

While studying to lead a discussion on the Proverbs 31 woman,  I found these excerpts in A MODERN STUDY IN THE BOOK OF PROVERBS by Charles Bridges (updated by George F. Santa), copryright 1978, Mott Media, Michigan.

"Perhaps one reason for the rarity of the 'virtuous woman' is that she is so seldom desired or searched for."  (p 732).

About verses 11-12:  Her character as a wife is one of "faithfulness," "oneness of heart," "affectionate dutifulness."  These characteristics cause the heart of her husband to trust in her.  "He feels his comfort to be regarded, his burdens relieved, and his mind freed from vexations.  He is at ease in constrained absence from home having left his interests in her safekeeping, while he is sure that his return will be welcomed with a gladdening smile" (p 732-733).

"A faithful wife and a confiding husband thus mutually bless each other.  With such a jewel for his wife, the husband has no misgivings....Ruling in sphere without, he encourages her to rule in her sphere within.  This would reduce or even eliminate any desire for him to be selfish, or to look greedily at other women.  Her faithfulness encourages his faithfulness.  Instead of abusing confidence, she seeks constantly to make herself more worthy of it" (p 734).

"One half, at least, of the picture of the virtuous woman is occupied with her personal, domestic work" (p 734).

She is not a recluse; here we find no "habits of monastic self-denial" (p 735).

Her industrious ways are a rebuke "to self-pleasing inactivity" (p 735).


She possesses "praiseworthy and genuine simplicity of manners," "practical, yet liberal thrift," economy without a miserly spirit" (p 735).

She is full of energy, an early riser, enthusiastic, ready to work, an efficient manager.  Her ways speak of godly self-denial and quiet dignity.  "Instead of murmuring @some inconvenient demand, she sets a worthy example and delights in the works of her hands" (p 735).

Bridges gives more commentary on this admirable woman.  His book is chock full of valuable insights into the whole book of Proverbs.  Each morning at breakfast, after he reads the Proverbs chapter corresponding to that date, David reads from Bridges about one of the verses he just read.  Rich stuff.

Indefinite Hiatus

Gentle Reader,

I am intentionally taking off from blogging here for an indefinite period of time.  I need to focus on meeting the needs of my husband and children.

If you are new to this blog, then I welcome you.  May you find refreshment and encouragment.  If you are a return guest, I hope you will browse the blog for articles you may not have read.

Blessings in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord,
Hester

Quotations Site

I just stumbled across

http://en.thinkexist.com/

They have a compendium of quotes that might come in handy for the writers among us.

Yours for worthy words,
Hester

When I Find My Drafts

My goal was to post several more articles about fear.  I took my drafts with me on our trip to bury my father-in-law in Arkansas.  I looked at the drafts in the van, but when I tried to find them the day after we got home a week ago, the folder I had them in no longer contained them.  Things were so hectic, I can't recall what I did with them.  Several searches later, I am still empty-handed; somehow I've hidden them from myself!  As soon as I find them, I will resume the series on fear.

Perplexed,
Hester

Sabbatical

My father-in-law passed away yesterday.  We spent hours with him and Mom in the hospital.  Now we're busy with making arrangements for two services, one locally, and one in a different state where he will be buried.

So I'm taking a break from blogging for a couple of weeks.

In the name of Him to whom we must give account,
Hester

Fear, Part 2

Here is a poor quality photo of a church bulletin board I did several years ago.  It reads:  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition,with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."  (Philippians 4:6-7)  The shield is emblazoned "PEACE."  The sword represents the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

In His peace,
Hester

Leftover Chocolate?!

taken from Terri's Village catalog.