Today starts a new series:’Proverbs 31 for the Average Woman’.
Perhaps some of you shudder and quake with inadequacy, as you retreat into your shell, clamp it tight, and protect yourself from the assault on your self-worth that the mere mention of that chapter connotes.
Maybe others are struggling to attain that model of perfection that has been presented to Christian women as the ideal, the goal, the epitome of success, the ultimate brass ring, reaching, reaching, for something that you fear will never be grasped. Maybe some of you think that it is impossible, so why even try?
Maybe some of you don’t know who the Proverbs 31 woman is — you can simply get a Bible and read the 31st chapter of Proverbs (right after Psalms) for a poetic description of this lovely lady. Maybe some of you are so full of self-conceit and pride, that you think you have a thing or two to teach that woman — oops — but you might still enjoy the series!
But for the rest of us average women, there is much to be learned from studying this admirable woman. Lest you’re concerned that this will be just another Bible study that makes you feel inferior and inadequate — never fear! This study will reveal the real Proverbs 31 woman, someone who could be your sister, your aunt, your friend. Someone who has something to teach us — even though she was probably humble enough to be surprised that we would find lessons in her life!
If you’d give me an opportunity to present a different picture of this lovely lady than the rumors you’ve heard about her, then get a cup of tea tomorrow morning and join me as I tell you about my friend, because she could be anyone’s friend — she could be your friend, too.
I’d like to introduce you to my friend in the next few posts by painting a true picture of the Proverbs 31 Woman, a woman that we should admire, revere, and aspire to emulate — a real woman who could have been one of us — an average woman — who lived her life simply, well, struggling to survive at times, but always full of faith– and faithful.
I can’t wait to introduce you to my friend!
Shari
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Dear Shari~
It’s going to take me quite a long time to read through your posts from 100 days until your anniversary, but tip #1 got me laughing because it is oh so true! Of course, the prescription for sickness is laughter: “Laughter doeth good like medicine!” PTL I have been laughing more lately with my husband, and I can see a huge difference, but it wasn’t intentional and I hadn’t connected the dots. Duh! I must say you are brilliant and shining like a star…reminds me of one of my favorite scriptures in Daniel 12:3: “Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” I am so excited about your powerful ministry, “Won Without Words” and will order your book for sure! Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. We’ve been married 40 years and I intend to learn a few of your tricks, intentionally!