My Second Love: A Proverbs 31 Study

Welcome

noreply@blogger.com (Edie) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 03:25:00 +0000

Biblical Submission is:

a beautiful gift for your husband

and a precious offering to God.

Welcome to My Second Love: A Proverbs 31 Study. This Bible study is an exegetical study of Proverbs 31:10-31; an acrostic poem based on the Hebrew alphabet, an oracle taught to King Lemuel (meaning: "devoted to God"), by his mother (Proverbs 31:1). Most scholars reason King Lemuel is King Solomon since Solomon was also called Jedidiah which means "beloved of the LORD" (2 Samuel 12:25).

Each lesson will unwrap the spiritual essence of every verse as well as provide you with a deeper understanding of how to apply these biblical principals to your life.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PARTICIPANTS:

Purchase a journal/binder just for this study so you can keep all your notes in one place, and meditate on them before you share your thoughts on Facebook.
I have added a "Print/PDF" button at the bottom of each lesson for your convenience.
Purchase a Bible highlighter, archival quality pens and/or colored pencils. You can purchase all of these either online, or in your local Christian bookstores or hobby and craft stores.

You can find the lessons by referring to the Table of Contents (located on the left side bar under the Navigation menu). Please be sure to start from the beginning. This study is not conducive to skipping around or to jumping in the middle. If you don't start from the beginning you will disable yourself from the full benefit of each lesson as they build upon one another.

Following God's Divine Order:
A wife's Biblical submission is vital to the family unit and a wife's effectiveness in her role as help-meet to her husband, therefore we will follow God's divine order of things (1 Corinthians 14:40):

GOD FIRST: Matthew 6:33 and 10:37-39; Luke 14:33; Mark 12:30-31; Proverbs 31:30; Psalm 88:13; Psalm 1:1-3
SPOUSE SECOND: Genesis 2:18-20, 3:16; Ephesians 5:22-24; 1 Corinthians 11:3, 8-9; 1 Timothy 2:13, 3:4-5; Titus 2:3-5
CHILDREN THIRD: Psalm 78:3-5; Titus 2:4; Deuteronomy 6:7; Proverbs 10:1; Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18; Proverbs 29:17; Malachi 2:15; Hebrews 12:8
HOMEMAKING FOURTH: Proverbs 31:10-31; Titus 2:3-5
"MINISTRY" FIFTH: Volunteering (at church and children's school), work, others (extended family, church family, friends) and hobbies: 1 Timothy 2:10, 5:9-10; 1 Corinthians 12:7: Acts 9:36; 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12; Romans 12:10 & 13: 1 Peter 4:9-11

Living life out of God's order is asking for chaos to reign in our lives, causing us to be unfruitful and living in constant haste (2 Peter 1:3-9).

How to participate in an online study:
The beauty of an online study is you can truly move at the pace in which God sets for each of you, according to your needs. We all learn at a different pace and all have different sin issues and temptations with which we struggle. Allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you, will sharpen your sensitivity to His voice as well as provide you with the utmost benefit as you willingly participate in the Holy Spirit's work of sanctification in your life.

The only hiccup of an online study is there is no accountability, which we often need; therefore, I highly recommend that you either gather a small group of sisters from online or in person (at least 3 in a group) so that you may share your journey together and hold one another accountable for staying the course. Since this is an intense and long study, you may want to break up the study into two semesters (Fall and Spring).

We have a Google Plus (G+) study group and a Facebook study group for sisters who would like to be actively involved with other sisters taking this study. You do not have to join our Google+ or Facebook Group to take the study. These online groups are an option and additional resource for those whom God is leading to: faithfully praying for one another, truthfully sharing lessons God is teaching you, exhorting other sisters in the group, rebuking with love and compassion when necessary, and humbly receiving the same rebuke. Lurkers and/or consumers are not welcome. This group is solely for women who are truly striving to live their utmost for God's highest and desire to faithfully share God's love and truth with others.

If you'd like to join the Google+ study group, click HERE and add the group to one of your circles. In order to join My Second Love: A Proverbs 31 Study G+ Group you must have a gmail email account.

If you'd like to join the Facebook study group, click HERE. In order to join My Second Love: A Proverbs 31 Study Facebook group, you must have a Facebook account.

Please be sure to meditate on each and every Scripture in this study. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are from the English Standard Version (ESV). Scripture will either be written out in each lesson or a link will be provided so that you will have ample opportunity to study the Word of God yourself.

Remember:
A woman of faith, doesn't live in haste.

Concept of Biblical Submission:
The concept of this Bible study did not originate from me, nor did the precept of biblical submission. No, these thoughts - these mandates originated from the LORD God Almighty who is good, righteous and perfect in all His ways. He taught me by the power of His Holy Spirit the truth of the impact and power that a wife's biblical submission has on the family unit, and therefore the world.

"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

~Romans 15:4-6

This study belongs to God and all the sisters in Christ whom the Lord has led to here so we may travel the road of biblical submission together and raise our voices, as one, giving praise, glory and honor only to Jesus our Supreme and First Love .

"Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them. Full of splendor and majesty is His work, and His righteousness endures forever. He has caused His wondrous works to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and merciful."
~ Psalm 111:1-4

New Facebook study group for all participants

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:37:00 +0000

Hello my precious and beloved sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ,

I wanted to let you know that we have a new Facebook study group for all participants of this study!

This is a great and safe place to join other sisters who are on the same journey: Biblical womanhood and submission. We worship Christ together, we pray for one another and we share questions about the study as well as anything to do with biblical womanhood (i.e., submitting to and loving our husbands, disciplining and loving our children, preparing meals, being good stewards of time and money, questions regarding Scripture, etc.).

Whether or not you're doing this study with a local group of sisters, you can still join our online community for exhortation, fellowship, prayer, and support.

It is a "closed" group, which means that while other people can see the group and our members, no one but the group member can see anything that is posted.

If you're interested please click the link below and complete the form. Once your inquiry is received, I will email you the link and instructions for our Facebook study group.

My Second Love: A Proverbs 31 Study Facebook Group

The high calling of biblical womanhood: Working at home

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 01:03:00 +0000

There is an enormous lie that has captured and deceived many women in the church today: Denying and sacrificing your family to work in “ministry” is an honor and proves a woman’s worth in the sight of God.

Due to this prevalent myth, many wives and mothers are being led astray by their personal passions and are leaving what they consider their less important and more mundane responsibilities at home, and chasing after “bigger and better” things outside of it. Unfortunately many women are deceived into believing their husbands and children are less spiritual than they because they’re complaining about her absence and/or neglect of their home.

“The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down.”
~Proverbs 14:1

Evangelism, leading Bible studies, discipling other women, online ministry, writing for the glory of God, etc., are vital parts of biblical womanhood, but none....

....to continue reading the article, click: The high calling of biblical womanhood: Working at home

Should Christians celebrate Halloween, Harvest Festivals or Reformation Day?

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:47:00 +0000

Every year about this time, there's some controversy about what Bible-believing Christians ought to celebrate. Is it a sin for a Christian to celebrate Halloween? Is it better to participate in a church Harvest/Fall Festival instead? What in the world is Reformation Day and why do I keep seeing, "Happy Reformation Day" on Facebook?

To find out the origins and meanings of these events, and which one, if any, Christians should be participate in, read my article on Examiner.com by clicking the link below:

Should Christians celebrate Halloween, Harvest Festivals or Reformation Day?

Movie review: "Courageous" - separating the men from the boys

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:57:00 +0000

My husband and I just saw this incredible movie this past weekend. We laughed, we cried, but mostly, we praised God for the gift of fatherhood and how it is accurately displayed in a media format.

So many TV shows, movies, and commercials nowadays depict fathers as the idiotic, nuisance of the family, rather than the respected head of the household God created them to be. Then we wonder why they don't take the lead, or why they prefer to hang out with their buddies rather than their families.

I realize not every father is worthy of honor because they are not honorable people. I understand many of us live under very different circumstances with men of authority, who abuse their position in multiple ways. I'm not talking about these men. I'm talking about the average Dad who often gets forgotten. The one that gets told what the family's weekend plans are and if he has an opinion of his own, everyone rolls their eyes and say, "Oh Dad, you don't know what's good."

Unfortunately, this is all too common within the Christian households as well as those of unbelieving families. Christian women spend more time in Bible study than most men, which results in many women taking the spiritual headship of the home.

We wives need to learn what true biblical submission is. And men need to stop acting like little boys, and act like the men they are, living courageously under the headship and authority of the Lord Jesus Christ.

To read my official review of the movie on Examiner.com, click here.

Abortions and its effect on marriages: The ugly and rarely spoken truths

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:12:00 +0000

Read my latest article on Examiner.com regarding the effects of abortion on marriages.

This is a topic that rarely gets researched or receives any media attention. Which is sad, because it is something that often causes destructive consequences that many marriages are not able to recover from.

Included in the article are two excerpts from the Elliot Institute where you'll be able to read the testimony from a husband's perspective and a wife's perspective of what abortion did to their marriages.

Please click the link to read the full article: Abortion and its effect on marriages: The ugly and rarely spoken truths.

180 Movie: Pro-Choice to Pro-Life in seconds!

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 21:30:00 +0000

abort (verb) - to cause to cease or terminate.

To abort or not to abort...that is the question. But what is the answer? I mean, the right answer? Whether you ask an unbeliever or sadly, even professing Christians this question, the answer varies. It seems odd that a Bible believing Christian would support the "choice" for a woman to abort, that is, terminate the life of her unborn baby, but many professing Christians have no problem with this. Why? I believe it is because both professing Christians and unbelievers have been deceived by the devil to think that because we cannot see life and because this life is not ready to be birthed from the mother's womb, the baby is not really alive. But how can something or someone that is growing and developing be dead? Have you ever seen anything in all creation, a plant, a virus, an animal that was dead, continue to develop? No. Only that which is living is capable of growing and developing, just as the baby in the mother's womb does, unless the baby's growth and development is aborted -- terminated; killed.

Who defines life? God defines life, because God is life.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men."
~John 1:1-4

When does life begin? A person is either alive or they are dead. There is nothing in between. Life is not a process, but an event. You either are a living being or you are not. Just as death is a one time event, so is life.

"For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in Your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me when as yet there were none of them."
~Psalm 139:13-16

Please watch this short, 33-minute movie, where you'll see 8 adamantly Pro-Choice people become Pro-Life, in just seconds! This vividly intense documentary shares the truth about abortion, it’s affect on the morality of our nation and people just like you and me. Because the issue of morality was brought up by some of the interviewees, a clear and biblical Gospel presentation is also included in this movie.

I found 180 to be a passionate and intellectually gripping movie. Ray Comfort, Founder and President of LWP, presents the viewer with a perspective on abortion that speaks directly to the condition of a person’s heart, rather than keep abortion at a comfortable, political distance. Ray Comfort opens the movie with a stern warning that history will be repeated, if we aren’t wise enough to educate ourselves and learn from it. and help spread the word.

Please visit Heart Changer to support the cause of speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves (Prov 31:8-9).

Please join me in prayer that God will use this movie to open the eyes and ears of all those who have been deceived.

Authentic Biblical Womahood -- eye candy for your man

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:16:00 +0000

I made this quick, impromptu video after making dinner for my family and realizing I had a couple minutes to spare.

As I prayed about how I might best spend these few minutes, the LORD was kind to remind me of a recent video I had seen on Facebook where a Christian woman was telling other women that they are being "fake" or are wearing a "mask" if they looked halfway decent when and if they work from home. She was stating that if we are being "authentic" then we will stop trying to impress others to try to get them to love and accept us. She taught that women should just be who we are, without makeup, without hair combed, without a shower, etc., just as she was in the video (oh, but she did state that she washed her face).

While I agree with the concept of being authentic, this poor sister missed a major point...CHRIST! I was very disturbed that she not only professes to be a Christian, but she also has a Christian ministry where she is wrongly teaching other women about God and the things of God. It is obvious this sister needs to spend much time under godly and wise teaching rather than consider herself a teacher as it is written:

"Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness"
~James 3:1

Since one of the things the LORD has called me to teach women is biblical womanhood, after much prayer, I made this counter-video so that Christian women can know and live by God's truth written in His word rather than listen to the erroneous teachings of the falsely humble emergent church "Christians".

If your entire focus is on being "authentic" so that others will love you for who you are, realize that your focus is yourself and not the Lord Jesus whom you profess to trust and love.

Beloved sisters in the Lord, I urge you to flee from this deceptive teaching and practice of seemingly exterior "holiness" and be holy as the LORD our God is holy by the righteousness of Christ, who alone can make you holy, acceptable and pleasing before the sight of God (2 Cor 5:21, Rom 3:10-12).

Humble yourself before the Lord and do all things for His glory, for His name to be exalted...not yours.

My article published at (in)courage today!

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 06:02:00 +0000

Hello beloved friends!

Just a quick note to let you know that my article My heart, Christ's garden has been published at DaySpring's women's devotional site, (in)courage.

Here's an excerpt:

“The genuine Christian must seek to be more excellent in his life than the best moralist, because Christ’s garden ought to produce the best flowers in the world.”
~ Charles Haddon Spurgeon

I want my heart to be this way. I want my heart to produce the most beautiful and luscious flowers! I want my life to flow with the love of God and the magnificence of His grace and mercy! I want my life to shout, “I am holy, set apart; unto the LORD!” I want my heart to hold a reservation only for One, my Lord Jesus. I want to be singularly focused and eternally inclined. I want to be like the flowers in my garden. I want to only face the Son. I want to stretch my faith and strain my efforts to have a leaning only towards the One who gave His life for mine....

To read the entire article click the link or picture above.

"Jesus answered, 'It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.' "
~ John 9:3

My Second Love - new look, new title, same message

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:51:00 +0000

Hello precious sisters in the Lord Jesus!

I wanted to give you a bit of a "heads up" on some new happenings behind the scenes!

I must confess that I'm not the most creative person...specifically, when it comes to teaching....online. I do much better in person and well, God's been leading me to be more open and more fluent with my online teaching, just as I do in "real life". With that said, after much prayer, and counsel from my amazing husband, I'm changing the name of this Bible study site.

The name that I've changed for the website address is My Second Love. This Bible study site will also undergo a "makeover", which will most likely be happening by the New Year. I'll keep you posted!

So, why the change? Well, I actually have to go run some errands right now, so I'll have to explain all that to you later. For those of you who've been with me for some time now and/or are already working through this study, you've probably already figured it out. ♥

For those of you who have subscribed both through Blogger, RSS feeds and email, it shouldn't change your subscription as I have everything forwarded to the new name. But, just in case there's a glitch and you're no longer receiving lessons or posts from me, you might want to re-subscribe. Sorry for any inconvenience and trouble. :)

What makes a healthy marriage? - Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:23:00 +0000

I recently began writing articles on Examiner.com. It's a secular, online newspaper of sorts and by God's providence I've been put under the larger "Relationship" category rather than the their "Religion & Spirituality" category, although the title they gave me is: Dallas Christian Marriage Examiner.

I'm so excited about this new opportunity to be able to reach a wider audience for Christ; to edify the saints and share the Gospel with the lost! To read my most recent article, please follow the link below:

What makes a healthy marriage? - Part 1

Is It Biblical to Leave My Unrepentant Husband?

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:45:00 +0000

Last week I received an email from a precious sister through my blog, About My Father's Business.

She had a question regarding her current situation with her husband and his infidelity.

Since this issue has to do with a wife's biblical role and the difficulties many of us face in our marriage, I thought it might benefit you or those you love, if I shared my response to her with all of you.

Ask Sunny: "Is It Biblical to Leave My Unrepentant Husband?"

I sincerely pray that this will bless all of you and exhort you to continue to press on toward the goal in which God has called you heavenward in Christ Jesus...no matter the cost...no matter the circumstances.

with much love & prayer,

Is Divorce & Remarriage Biblical?

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:29:00 +0000

This was a question posed to me by one of my readers from my other blog, About My Father's Business - John 15:13.

Since this Bible study site pertains to all matters regarding what is or isn't biblical in marriage, I saw it fitting to share this article with all of you as well.

To read the article, please click the title below:

Is Divorce and Remarriage Biblical?

What Does Jesus Want for Christmas?

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Merry CHRISTmas!

Let us all remember why we celebrate this day. Not so that we can ask for things, or even to fulfill the requests of what others have asked for. But instead, let us all ask what Jesus our Savior wants.

Below, is an article John Piper wrote in 2001. Please read and be blessed.

What Does Jesus Want for Christmas?

By John Piper December 11, 2001

What does Jesus want this Christmas? We can see the answer in his prayers. What does he ask God for? His longest prayer is John 17. Here is the climax of his desire:

Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am (v. 24).

Among all the undeserving sinners in the world, there are those whom God has "given to Jesus." These are those whom God has drawn to the Son (John 6:44, 65). These are Christians - people who have "received" Jesus as the crucified and risen Savior and Lord and Treasure of their lives (John 1:12; 10:11, 17-18; 20:28; 6:35; 3:17). Jesus says he wants them to be with him.

Sometimes we hear people say that God created man because he was lonely. So they say, "God created us so that we would be with him." Does Jesus agree with this? Well, he does say that he really wants us to be with him! Yes, but why? Consider the rest of the verse. Why does Jesus want us to be with him?

. . . to see my glory that you [Father] have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

That would be a strange way of expressing his loneliness. "I want them with me so they can see my glory." In fact it doesn't express his loneliness. It expresses his concern for the satisfaction of our longing, not his loneliness. Jesus is not lonely. He and the Father and the Spirit are profoundly satisfied in the fellowship of the Trinity. We, not he, are starving for something. And what Jesus wants for Christmas is for us to experience what we were really made for - seeing and savoring his glory.

Oh, that God would make this sink in to our souls! Jesus made us (John 1:3) to see his glory. Just before he goes to the cross he pleads his deepest desires with the Father: "Father, I desire - I desire! - that they . . . may be with me where I am, to see my glory."

But that is only half of what Jesus wants in these final, climactic verses of his prayer. I just said we were really made for seeing and savoring his glory. Is that what he wants - that we not only see his glory but savor it, relish it, delight in it, treasure it, love it? Consider verse 26, the very last verse:

I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.

That is the end of the prayer. What is Jesus' final goal for us? Not that we simply see his glory, but that we love him with the same love that the Father has for him: "that the love with which you [Father] have loved me may be in them." Jesus' longing and goal is that we see his glory and then that we be able to love what we see with the same love that the Father has for the Son. And he doesn't mean that we merely imitate the love of the Father for the Son. He means the Father's very love becomes our love for the Son - that we love the Son with the love of the Father for the Son. This is what the Spirit becomes and bestows in our lives: Love for the Son by the Father through the Spirit.

What Jesus wants most for Christmas is that his elect be gathered in and then get what they want most - to see his glory and then savor it with the very savoring of the Father for the Son.

What I want most for Christmas this year is to join you (and many others) in seeing Christ in all his fullness and that we together be able to love what we see with a love far beyond our own half-hearted human capacities.

This is what Jesus prays for us this Christmas: "Father, show them my glory and give them the very delight in me that you have in me." Oh, may we see Christ with the eyes of God and savor Christ with the heart of God. That is the essence of heaven. That is the gift Christ came to purchase for sinners at the cost of his death in our place.

Proverbs 31:23 - Three Wise Women

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 23:49:00 +0000

In our first lesson on Proverbs 31:23, we saw a real-life picture of what an ungodly, unbiblically submissive wife looks like. We witnessed her sinful and wretched prayer life as well as her "holier than thou" attitude against her husband in which Satan so skillfully used to cause much strife and division in her household. Yes, we discovered in our last lesson that I allowed Satan to use me as a baseball bat to beat my husband and recklessly tear down my house with my own hands.

"The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down."
~ Proverbs 14:1

Therefore, it is fitting that we now turn our attentions to three women in the Bible that truly understood what biblical submission was all about. In His righteousness, the Lord our God saw it fit to use these women as examples of what a Princess of the King really looks like: beautiful (inside), calm, confident, quiet, peaceful, and a humble servant ready to act on behalf of others when necessary with no regard for her personal well-being. Who are these wonderful women? They are:

Zipporah (Moses' wife)
Ruth (Boaz's wife & great-grandmother of King David)
Elizabeth (Zechariah's wife & mother of John the Baptist)

Zipporah
Read:
Genesis 17:10-14 (highlight v. 14)
&
Exodus 4:24-26 (highlight v. 26)

A biblically submissive wife protects: LIFE

When we read this passage, especially the verses that come right before Exodus 4:24, it seems a bit out of place. Right before verse 24, we see that God has called Moses to be the one who saves/leads His people out of bondage. So what does this have to do with circumcision and why did God make sure these three tiny little verses were placed right after Moses' commission from the LORD and right before Moses even had the opportunity to enter Egypt?

To understand the importance of these three verses, we must first understand the Lord our God and His ways and what is most important to Him concerning man ~ to reconcile man into a right relationship with God the Father. God used the life of Moses to reveal to us the shadow of the things to come. Moses was given the Law and was kept by the Law through the old covenant of physical circumcision. But when the Son, who is the Christ came, the old covenant was dissolved and the new covenant in the blood of Jesus restored, saved and led all people who trust in Christ into a right relationship with God the Father by circumcising one's heart ~ separating the soul of man from his dead flesh and binding it with the life of Christ. In fact, the actual Hebrew word used in this passage for "covenant" is bĕriyth that comes from the root word bara' which together mean: to cut; to create something new; to make a treaty, alliance.¹ This is why those of us who have repented and fully trusted our lives to Jesus, are called a "new creation". We have been "cut off" from the old self which lived in and for the flesh with its wicked passions and desires that war against God; and have been granted to enter into a "treaty, alliance" with God to live in and for His Spirit that now dwells within us.

"Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn."
~ Deuteronomy 10:16

"For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God."
~ Romans 2:28-29

Why did Zipporah, the wife of Moses suddenly choose to circumcise her son, touch Moses' feet with the bloody knife and then speak those words [Exodus 4:25]? While it is not written in Scripture, it is obvious she was well-taught God's holy commandments and what was required to remain in a covenant relationship with Him [Genesis 17:14].

Now, Scripture doesn't say who's life was in danger, Moses' or his son who had not been circumcised up to that point, but God is clear in His word, that He intended to take one of their lives that day.

In God's awesome mercy, He chose to reveal to Zipporah her husband Moses' error and great sin against God. Our heavenly Father knew Zipporah had a submissive, humble and reverent heart towards Him, so He graced her with the knowledge of the impending doom (eternal damnation) that was to come upon one of her family members.

And what did Zipporah do with this knowledge God so generously granted her? Did she puff up with pride because God revealed something to her that was not revealed to her husband? Did she think she was better or more holy than Moses because God showed her her husbands error so she could lord it over him, correct him and expect something in return, i.e., respect, reward, her husband's submission to her judgment, etc.? No, this godly woman did no such thing. Instead, without any concern for herself, what she might lose or gain, she acted out of her love, reverence and gratitude towards God and her family, by quickly doing what her husband should have already done; pleading for their life, and submitting herself to her husband (even though it was his sin that caused this) by throwing herself at Moses' feet while she spoke those gracious words that moved God's heart to relent.

Contrary to popular belief, the Lord our God does not help those who can help themselves. Instead, He is always faithfully seeking to help those who humble themselves. Like Zipporah did. Just think sisters, your humility could be used by God to save someone's life, both their physical and more importantly, their eternal.

"For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward Him."
~ 2 Chronicles 16:9

Ruth

Read:
the entire book of Ruth

A biblically submissive wife sows: HUMILITY

Ruth 1:16-18 → Ruth makes a declaration of saving faith. These words of hers are not emotion-led, circumstantial, temporary words. She does not make this statement of her trust in the God of Israel to merely feel better and in hopes of a better life here on earth, as we will see this in the following verses as Ruth's faith is proved by her godly and humble actions.

Ruth 2:2 → Ruth didn't sit around feeling sorry for herself (which she could've easily done, especially in her situation, i.e., lost her husband, moved to a foreign country, doesn't' know anyone and lives with a bitter and depressed ex-mother-in-law). Instead, she takes the initiative to ask Naomi for permission to go find a humble job or rather, a humiliating job in order to feed and care for the both of them. Ruth already begins to display her humility, kindness, wisdom and honor for others above herself; which are all attributes of a biblically submissive woman. Ruth doesn't have an "I'm in charge!" attitude, but more of a "How can I help?" attitude. Although Ruth was in no way truly obligated to Naomi, she chose to commit herself to someone who was utterly of no use to her in any way. Think about it. If anything, Naomi was "dead weight" more than she was a blessing. But because Ruth esteems herself not, all she can see, all her heart perceives is the destitute and sorrowful state of her mother-in-law and compassion for Naomi overtakes Ruth; this is the same compassion that overtook Christ's heart for us - providing us eternal salvation by His wounds.

"When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.' "
~ Matthew 9:36-38

In this world, there are spectators who only talk about what should be done, what they plan to do, and point out error in others. And then there are the laborers who only talk when necessary because they are too busy working and about the Lord's business instead of the world's business.

God is gracious and He is sovereign. And in His sovereignty, He gives us free will to choose whether we will be chatty spectators or humble laborers. Ruth, was most definitely a humble laborer who was mercifully welcomed into God's fold, although she was a Moabitess.

It is easy for us to seek God's face when we are in need or distressed. Not only is this fact true historically in the Bible, but I've found it to be true in my life as well. As with God's children of old, I too have cried out to God for deliverance and found it easy to be grateful when He provides refuge, comfort and grace in my time of need. But it seems that when we're doing well, when we're comfortable, we tend to forget the God who so generously provided us with His awesome presence and His glorious riches. We take God and His gifts for granted as if we somehow deserved or earned all that we have. Ironically, it is not in the difficult times that our humility is tested, but in the times of pleasantry.

"Take care lest you forget the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments and His rules and His statutes, which I command you today, lest, when you have eaten and are full and have built good houses and live in them, and when your herds and flocks multiply and your silver and gold is multiplied and all that you have is multiplied, then your heart be lifted up, and you forget the LORD your God...Beware lest you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' "
~ Deuteronomy 8:11-14(a) and 17

Unlike many of us, Ruth didn't forget the Lord her God who gave her her husband, then took him away. Instead she desired to stay near to Him, even if it meant that she would live in poverty, with an embittered, depressed mother-in-law in a foreign land where she might be belittled and mistreated because she was not an Israelite, but a Moabitess.

She then labored intensely in a field, gleaning like a beggar from what was left from the harvesters who had gone before her and already reaped the best of the grain from the field. Except for a short and necessary rest, she did not stop until she had reaped an ample amount to bring home to her mother-in-law, so they may eat and be satisfied.

And even when she caught Boaz's eye, she did not consider herself worthy. When Boaz spoke kindly to her, she did not do a "Yay me!" dance, but fell to the ground in humility and wondered why such a man like Boaz would dare to even notice a girl like her.

Ruth 4:14, 17 → Ruth's love, trust and full devotion to the God of Israel, allowed her to receive a rich and glorious blessing she could never do anything to deserve - she became the great-grandmother of King David and ultimately was privileged to be included in the earthly lineage of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

When we allow our pride to take us over, then we are actually choosing to step out of God's will - His protection and gracious blessings we could never dream of, earn or deserve. But when we humble ourselves, we willingly submit to God's authority, obey His commandments (which is love to God [1 John 5:3]).

The humility of a wife/mother tends to breed humility in those around her. Not because she boasts of this, but because the evidence of God's work is clearly manifested in her life a she decreases (humbles herself) all the more so that the life of Christ the Lord may increase.

For the perfect example of unnecessary honor and submissive obedience rendered, read: Luke 2:48-52

Elizabeth

Read:
Luke 1:1-80

A biblically submissive wife exudes: FAITH

Although both Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth were found to be righteous before God and walked "blamelessly in all the statutes of the Lord", Zechariah began to lose faith that God would ever grant them a child. This fact is evidenced by his response of unbelief when the angel of the Lord, Gabriel spoke to him about the birth of John. Because Zechariah was hasty to utter anything before God (Ecclesiastes 5:2), Gabriel close his mouth of unbelief until it was time to name John (nearly an entire year).

When it was time to name their son, the other priests had been aware that Zechariah could not speak, so they were going to name him after Zechariah. But Zechariah's biblically submissive wife, Elizabeth humbly spoke up and said, "No; he shall be called John." In her time it was not seen as "proper" for a woman to speak up in such a manner, especially to correct other men. But she did not speak from her own, but only that which God had given her before-hand.

Elizabeth's faith exuded from her every being. She immediately accepted God's blessing of a baby when it seemed impossible, she prophesied when Mary came to see her in her six month, and she spoke only when necessary, with words from the Lord.

Her faith, built up her husband's faith, and his speech was restored when he humbly agreed with the the words from his wife, because he now saw, that truly, all that Gabriel spoke to him, was from God.

Was it Elizabeth's words from much study and eloquence in which she expressed herself or her knowledge of spiritual matters that restored her husband's faith? No. It was by her good conduct that proved the work of her faith in the meekness (humility) of wisdom (James 3:13).

In this lesson, we were blessed to visit with three sisters of old, who exemplified what biblical submission looks like in very different situations. We saw that a biblically submissive wife protects life, sows humility and exudes faith. And we also saw that these godly attributes were God-given gifts to each woman so that through her biblical submission generations after her will be blessed.

Homework:

Don't rush through this lesson. There is a lot of Scripture to cover and it will not benefit you to merely skim through it. Meditate deeply on each Scripture/passage and write the Scripture/passage in which God quickens your heart to obedience and write everything the Lord reveals to you in your journals.
Continue with your next day in your Love Dare Journal. Prayerfully consider any area in your life that is not fitting with these women we studied today and write a prayer of repentance and request to the Lord to make you the woman He has created you to be. Commit to work with the Holy Spirit and not against Him.

Footnotes:

1. Hebrew definitions for bĕriyth and bara' - were found at Blue Letter Bible. Click this link to view the full definition of bĕriyth and click this link to view the full definition for bara'

***Mr. Linky has been added ONLY FOR PARTICIPANTS of "A Wife's Biblical Submission" Bible Study so they may edify other sisters who are traveling this road together. Please do not use Mr. Linky to promote and/or produce more traffic for your blog or website. If your URL does not link directly to a post pertaining to this lesson, it will be deleted. Thank you for giving honor to the participants.***

Speak Up For Those...

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 22:55:00 +0000

...who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.
(Proverbs 31:8)

I don't normally do this on this Bible study blog, but I feel this issue is too important and I am compelled to share this with every means God has made possible for me. Please help me to get this word out.

If the Obama administration is successful in rescinding the "Conscience Clause" then many doctors could be fired or go to jail if they refuse to take the life of a precious baby.

Respect God's Commandment on Life

Watch a video of Senator Tom Coburn who states:
"I will go to jail before I perform an abortion."

Fox News - Tom Coburn

Below, is an excerpt from Jay Sekulow's website regarding what we can do, as children of God to help save the lives of unborn babies and our brothers and sisters in the medical profession who are standing for the same.
____________________________________

President Obama said it. He wants to hear from you.

But he's given you a deadline: You've got two weeks to voice your concerns - to speak out for America's pro-life medical professionals ... and their moral conscience - before it's too late.

Right now, the Department of Health and Human Services is accepting public comment on this very critical issue - but the deadline is quickly approaching.

You have strong convictions, but President Obama says that doesn’t matter. He’s ready to rescind the Conscience Clause.

The Conscience Clause was implemented by former President George W. Bush to give physicians and nurses the choice to act according to their conscience — to not participate in abortion procedures if it conflicts with their personal convictions. If President Obama makes this damaging move, if he reverses the Conscience Clause, pro-life doctors and nurses will be forced into performing abortion procedures, despite their individual beliefs.

Please click and sign below and pass this information on to everyone you know. Remember, President Obama has only given us two weeks to act. Thanks be to God, He made His children fast typers! ♥

Petition to Protect Pro-Life Doctors

Proverbs 31:23 - The Crown of Her Husband

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 20:16:00 +0000

Much like our previous study on Proverbs 31:22, this verse seems a bit out of place, doesn't it? In our last lesson, we had to stop and consider why this wonderfully, biblically submissive woman, that is so priceless and precious in the sight of the LORD God Almighty, would only provide bed coverings for herself. But after we began to meditate on God's word and turned up our Holy Spirit "hearing aids", we could hear Him gently explain to us how it is that a woman of such noble character is covered: first by the blood of Jesus, the Son of God; second, by the seal of the Holy Spirit until the day of Redemption; and third, by her earthly husband, to protect her from the deceptive schemes of our enemy, the devil.

But unlike our last lesson, this one appears to carry even further away from what we've been studying up to this point. How is it that an acrostic poem about such an excellent woman, included an accolade regarding a man, her husband?

For those of you, who have steadfastly traveled with me thus far on the road to biblical submission; probably already have a keen sense of what God plans to teach us at this junction.

So let's get out the Sword of the Spirit, our pens, colored pencils, and/or our archival quality highlighters and get ready for a beautiful stroll with our Lord and Father in Heaven!

To get a glimpse of what we’ll be studying today, envision this picture in your mind; you, standing at a gate, on a cold wintry day, with fresh white snow covering the ground, welcoming the sun rise, in which you are facing. Tell me what you see. Observe:

The Gate;
Pure, white snow;
Facing the sun

We’ll come back to these three observations at the end of this lesson.

Before you read on, I would like to ask you to stop for a moment and pray. Ask God to reveal to you, what He wants you to see; what He wants you to take notice of in this scene. After you’ve prayed and listened intently to the Holy Spirit, jot down what He told you, so you’ll be prepared to receive what He desires to reveal to you.

At this time, I’d like to direct you to an excerpt from a sermon John Piper gave on Sunday, May 10, 1981 that brings some light as to why verse 23 was included in an acrostic poem about an incredibly godly woman, who fears and loves the Lord.

“Verse 23 seems out of place in a song of praise to women. It says, "Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land." How is that a word of praise to the wife who fears the Lord? Proverbs 12:4 gives the answer: "A good wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is the rottenness of his bones." A wife who fears the Lord increases the esteem of her husband at the gates of the city. In twelve and a half years of marriage my wife has never done or said anything in public that would have caused me to be ashamed. She has my absolute trust as a representative of what our family stands for. There is no place I might go where I would be ashamed to take Noël. She is a crown to my head and a signet ring on my right hand. She is for me 100% because she is a woman who fears the Lord. And I pray that every wife here will, under God, give that kind of support to your husband.”

~ John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: desiringGod.org

What our brother John Piper said about his wife Noël, is what every man who is married to a daughter of the King, should be able to say about his wife. Has my husband always been able to say this about me? Absolutely not! During the first years of our marriage, I was a very strong-willed, opinionated, Pharisaical, loud and boisterous woman who demanded to be heard, respected, romanced and highly esteemed! Okay, I know you want to laugh, and you can. Believe me, I do. When I remember how ungodly I behaved, yet expected to be well-loved and cherished, it really makes me laugh. I was basically questioning why my husband couldn't and wouldn't snuggle up to a thornbush! This only confirms that when someone is not walking with God and disobedient to His commands, they are completely illogical and out of their minds. I can say this with assurance because, as you can see, I’ve been there.

Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.
~ Proverbs 28:26

I’ve said this before and I will say it again; you will never know and appreciate how sweet, sweet is, unless you’ve tasted sour.

With this in mind, I’m going to do something a little bit different with you today. I’m going to give you a little break from thinking you’re a horrible mess, by allowing you to see what a horrible mess really looks like. You have all been working so hard up to this point; bearing your souls naked before God, and confessing your sins so that we might pray for one another and be healed of our sickness: the desire to rule over our husbands.

I think the most appropriate and beneficial thing I can teach you today is what a contentious, unsubmissive wife looks like. Not just on the outside (because she may look quite “holy” on the outside). But I want to give you a glimpse of the heart of the most contentious, unruly, merciless woman I have ever personally known. I know that she will gladly allow you to view the deep recesses of her heart in the hopes that you will be so utterly repulsed by it, you will not venture that way yourselves and will run to our Savior with every breath you have at even the slightest likeness of becoming what she once was. This woman was once truly, the epitome of a modern day Eve.

I have her permission to share a personal journal entry in what she has affectionately called her “complaint journal”. No, not a prayer journal; a complaint journal. She was such a horrid woman, that at some point, knew it, and thereby had a complaint journal in which she journaled all her complaints to God, her Father, about all the things in life that irked her. She was sure that she was pretty much as close to perfect as humanly possible and was constantly annoyed that others were so blind they could not see this truth themselves. Doesn’t she sound like someone you’d want to quickly make friends with? I think not! At one point in her life, she even bought a book entitled: The Perfect Christian by Tony Evans because she was sure, not only might she be mentioned in the book (although she didn’t know the author), but also thought the book must be about someone like her! It’s amazing how arrogant we allow ourselves to become. I’m sure we can all say we’ve thought similar things – we just don’t want everyone else to know about it.

Before I share the journal entry she wrote, she wants to make sure that you understand where her heart was and what she was thinking at the time she wrote this. You see, she’d been praying for years for God to change her husband. She wanted God to make her husband into a man who was worthy of her. But after four years of praying this and receiving no answer from God, she changed her prayer for the next two years. She felt he was “dead weight” and was holding her back spiritually.

Finally, after two years of praying a "new" way and still not getting any response from God, she wrote the following entry in her complaint journal. She wanted God to change her husband or get rid of him, and she wanted it to happen now! By this time, they had two sons and she did not want them to grow up, learning to be such ungodly men as she believed her husband to be.

Before you read this, I want to point something out to you. In the second paragraph, she writes, “I know I can’t change anyone, but You can.” She is referring to God changing her husband. I want you to see how our awesome God changed this bitter and ungodly woman’s heart, from that sentence to the next.

November 22, 1998

It is 8:10 a.m. and I am as sad and lost as can be. You’d think I was dragged through a long day, but I haven’t. I just feel like I have although it is early in the morning.

Lord, where do I go from here? I know I can’t change anyone, but I know You can. So change me, Father. Guide me to be less human, and more godly. Help me to “pursue righteousness and love” so that I may find “life, prosperity and honor.” (Proverbs 21:21)

Lord, I have so many wants and expectations. Why? Why do I? Could You, Father, create in me a new heart that works hard and expects nothing? So that I may turn from anger and hostility against those who give little? Lord if You create in me a new heart and mind that is completely focused on You and not myself, I know I will have fewer disappointments in my life here.

Guide me O Father, regardless of circumstances, to always be a good witness and example of Your love, power, grace, wisdom and righteousness. May I spend the rest of today, and every day (one day at a time) focused on my Lord and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

I know You know sweet, loving Father, that through my Savior, Your Son, Christ Jesus, You fully understand what it is to love and give so much with no or little return of it back. I know Jesus has walked more than a mile in my shoes. He did nothing wrong and EVERYTHING righteous and Godly, yet He was beaten, mocked and crucified, so that my life…my eternal life could see Your Glory. Oh Father forgive me for my selfishness and complaining. Release me O Lord of my natural want to complain and grumble of all that I do not have, and place in me a supernatural want to serve, love, persevere and to be humble in all and every situation. I love You Lord with all my heart, all my soul and all my mind. Use me today Father for You.

Praise be to the One and Only God through my Christ, Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. AMEN”

WOW! Is our God awesome or what?! Who would ever believe that such a horrid, filthy woman could ever be cleansed and made whole again – only in and through Christ’s love was this possible. Who was this woman? It was me.

Why did God change my heart in an instance, after six excruciating years living rebelliously out of His good and perfect will? Because at this point in my life, I had emptied myself, of myself. Although my thinking was still in error, God saw my heart; broken and willing to receive whatever it was that He desired to give me. That day, the Lord of Hosts rebuked me and disciplined me. And when I could not stand, due to enormous shame, He held out His hand and lifted me out of my miry pit and set my feet upon the Rock (Psalm 40:2). He comforted me and reminded me that now, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1-2). But only hope, and the truth that we are all unworthy wretches, deserving of eternal damnation in Hell, but it is finished. Jesus Christ took the shame of my sins and He nailed them to the Cross. O glorious God, who is abounding in compassion, who will not deal with us according to our iniquities, but mercifully grants us the everlasting life in His eternal Kingdom! This is why we praise Him!

"The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will He keep His anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His steadfast love toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does He remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to His children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust."
~ Psalm 103:8-14

This is why I can share this for all the world to see. Do I like who I was? No. Do I have guilt and shame over it? No. Why? Because I believe my Father God’s word that says that He has forgiven me and will refine me through and through, conforming me into the likeness of His brilliant Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Do I have regret over this? Yes! This is why I and others who are committed to our Savior, sin less. Christians are not sinless, we just sin less – and less, and less, until the Day of Redemption (1 John 3:6-9 and 1 John 5:18-20).

What happened after that day? Well, God not only opened my heart, but He opened my eyes as well, and I saw my husband, like I’d never seen him before. He was the man I’d been praying for. I was just too blind to see it because the mirror I was looking at, only pointed to me – and I could see no one else; the imperfections I thought I was seeing in my husband, turned out to be the imperfections in me. God is compassionate, merciful and gracious, even to the wicked and ungrateful. I know, I’ve been and sometimes still am, the wicked and ungrateful. Yet our faithful Father God restores me, every time I seek Him with a humble heart.

So why did I mention the gate; the pure, white snow; and that we're facing the sun? Because this is what God has done for all of us and we shouldn't be able to keep ourselves from seeing our lives the way He sees it. Jesus Christ is the Gate we must enter – the Gate that was broken and opened, so that we might find eternal life and salvation. And as we came to Jesus, filthy, unworthy, yet repentant, He washed our sins, with His precious blood; as white as snow. And now, both our flesh and spirits can face the Son and drink from the Living Water, so that we may never thirst again. Hallelujah! All glory be to the Lamb who was slain!

I pray that you learn from my sin, and run far from it. I know for certain our God is a mighty God. He is awesome and there is no sin you or I can, or have ever committed, that is too great for Him to forgive and cleanse you from. God took me from being a woman who was a snare to my husband, to a woman he now wears proudly as his crown, his jewel, his greatest earthly treasure; all because our King Jesus is refining me, so that I am free to shine His glory!

I’d like to close this lesson with the chorus from the Casting Crowns’ song entitled: In Me.

“ ‘Cause when I’m weak, You make me strong
When I’m blind, You shine Your light on me
‘Cause I’ll never get by living on my own ability
How refreshing to now You don’t need me
How amazing to find that You want me
So I’ll stand on Your truth, and I’ll fight with Your strength
Until You bring the victory, by the power of Christ in me.”

Homework:

Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to all the Scriptures our Father wants you to see, to turn you from the desires of your flesh, and also to restore you in His love.
Continue with your next day in your Love Dare Journal. Please do not stop, please do not take this lightly and please do not linger on one day too long. I've heard some people (not in our study) saying because patience is so hard for them, they'll wait until they get that mastered before they move on. Then they share it's been three weeks, since they've started, then laugh. It is different if you're actively working on a certain sin issue with God, but it is quite another to lightly consider your marriage and how it looks in the sight of our holy and awesome God.

Proverbs 31:22 - She is Covered!

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 22:32:00 +0000

Let's recap what we've studied, meditated on and gleaned from this beautiful, strong and wise, Proverbs 31, Biblically submissive wife so far. She is:

An excellent wife, who's worth is incomparable to anything on this earth, as her value in God's eyes and to her husband and children are held and kept safe in God's Heavenly treasury (Matthew 6:33). She is also a force to be reckoned with and our enemy, the devil knows it and that is why he tries so hard to keep this kind of woman deceived by being "liberated" by the world and all its lies. (v.10)
A woman who's husband is free to be the man God created him to be because she is a woman who regularly exercises self-discipline and welcomes God's pruning shears so that she may bear bigger and more vibrant fruit. She is humble, gentle and kind and allows the work of her hands, done in meekness to speak for her as her full trust and confidence is in Christ her Savior, not in any human being (1 Thessalonians 4:11, James 3:13). She feels no need to defend herself, but is eager and ready to defend the reputation and quality of life, for her husband and children (1 Peter 2:23-3:2). (v.11)
A woman who does her husband good and not harm all the days of her life, but does not rejoice in this. Instead, she rejoices only that Christ is the one who alone is qualified to do anything good, therefore gives Him honor and praise for working this miracle in her life to bless her and her entire household. This kindness of Christ always brings her to her knees where she humbly offers our Lord and King Jesus, praises and holy adoration (Mark 14:3-6). (v.12)
A woman who recognizes that God uses her to warm the hearts of those in her household by blessing her husband with her unconditional love and respect through daily acts of kindness so that he may truly find his home to be his castle - his sanctuary from the world and all that it has taken from him each day. She extends this same kindness to her children and all who are in her household as God also uses her to "cool" and calm the spirits of those he has providentially placed in her life; so that she may be the arms and feet of Jesus (Proverbs 18:22, Acts 9:36, 39). (v.13)
A woman, who like the merchant ships, provides food; good, nutritious food for her entire household. She is wise, efficient and organized. Therefore, she does not spend her husband's hard earned money frivolously, but to demonstrate her gratitude to God for all her provisions, including her husband's job, she is frugal in her spending and plans meals so that nothing is wasted (John 6:12, 1 Peter 4:9-11). (v.14)
A woman who rises with the Son of God. Her heart and mind are guarded in Christ Jesus our Lord because she mediates on His Word, day and night and refuses to entertain idle activities, but only that which edifies her and builds her up in the faith. She is not deceived by Satan to believe it is the hour in which she wakes up that God is pleased with, but in the attitude in which she wakes up is how God is honored (Psalm 1:1-3, Ephesians 5:15-17). (v.15)
Smart and classy. She keeps herself well-informed of all things that are necessary in helping her to buy or sell, keep her home tidy and organized, and whatever work God gives her to perform, whether in her home our out. She faithfully meditates on the Word of God and keeps a watchful eye on her labor to ensure she is not engaged in frivolous activities that only bring her pleasure, but prayerfully seeks God's will in everything she does, to bring honor and praise to His Name because of her work (1 Peter 2:12). (v.16)
Able to dress herself. Not only physically, but more importantly, spiritually. She is fully dressed in the Armor of God and clothed with the Fruit of the Spirit. She finds her full security and source of joy in Christ Jesus alone as she always recognizes that she is betrothed to the Son of God, Who alone is capable of loving her perfectly, and satisfying all her needs. Therefore, when her husband fails her, instead of growing angry or bitter, she falls to her knees and thanks her Heavenly Betrothed One, Jesus Christ, for reminding her that her husband is but a man; a sinner, just like her, and that Christ alone can fulfill her and will never fail her (Matthew 11:28-30). (v. 17)
Immersed in God's Word, as she hungers and thirsts for righteousness. She perceives that the Word of the Lord is a lamp to her feet and a light for her path. She does not foolishly stay up all night working, as she fully understands that it is a gift from God to eat, drink and enjoy the fruit of one's labor; and to enjoy the peaceful rest that God provides. She is a good and faithful manager of her all her God-given gifts, talents and abilities and uses these gifts to bless and benefit all those around her. She wisely recognizes that her Biblical submission to her husband is used by God to woo others to Himself as they stand in awe of the inner beauty she possess - the incomparable beauty of Jesus Christ Himself. (v.18)
A Distaff - a woman who is full of good works and acts of charity. She is well-loved and respected in the Family of God because of her deeds done in love. She does not require nor seek praise from men, as she is fully aware of this entrapment, and refuses to stray from her First Love, Jesus Christ. No, instead, she lives and breathes for the pleasure and glory of the LORD God alone (Galatians 1:10). (v. 19)
A woman who keeps her hands clean with acts of kindness performed in sincere love; and maintains a pure heart by confessing and repenting of her sins so that she may see God. She willingly and lovingly "bends down" to submit to her husband and serve him, just as Christ our God, "bent down" and submitted Himself to earthly authority because He came to serve and not to be served. Then and only then, can she "bend down" to feed others outside her household, who are poor and needy (Psalm 32:3-5). (v.20)
A woman who fears the LORD God Almighty alone, for her hope [trust] is in Christ and His salvation, and not in man, nor any "securities" of this world. Only the LORD God is her portion. She clothes herself and her entire household in scarlet to acknowledge they are of royal heritage (for she herself is saved, and trusts the LORD to save her entire household). They are all doubly clothed: washed with the blood of Jesus, therefore, clothed in the robe of His righteousness and sealed with the Holy Spirit of God, until their bodies are redeemed (Luke 19:9, Romans 2:29). (v.21)

I must admit, when I first read Proverbs 31:22, I was a bit confused. I asked the Lord, "Father, why does she make bed coverings for herself? Why is she clothed in fine linen and purple? Why does she not provide bed coverings for her household? Why is this verse only about her?"

Our glorious and wise Father God, generously answered me, just as He promised:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

~ James 1:5

God reminded me, that because He is not a far off God, but intimate with each of His children, it is important to take note of how His daughters are covered and clothed.

The first portion of this verse says that she makes "bed coverings" for herself. Therefore, let us dissect the use and purpose of bed coverings so that we may better understand the significance of this portion of Scripture.

During the Old Testament times, bed coverings were not limited to what was actually on one's bed, but also included what was around one's bed. Curtains were often used to "cover" [surround] the bed for the purpose of privacy as well as providing additional protection from the elements. And bed coverings were not necessarily used for "common" or ordinary purposes, but were made only for those of royal or noble birth. The bed coverings themselves were beautiful, ornate and often made with tapestry.

In this verse, we can see that a Proverbs 31, Biblically submissive wife, makes her own bed coverings that are used to both lay over her body to provide her with warmth and comfort, as well as making a curtain that surrounds her entire sleeping area. While this is a physical necessity and comfort for a good nights rest, the spiritual application for this is far more precious. For she not only makes physical bed coverings for herself to ensure a good nights rest, but she also faithfully works out her salvation, as she draws deeper and deeper into the well-spring of Life, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. She doesn't expect anyone else to grow her intimacy with Christ. No, she can dress herself (like we found out in Proverbs 31:17). She does not need to be spoon feed, nor does she require anyone to "prop" her up in the faith. She is committed to be conformed into the likeness of her Savior and she does not need any cajoling or convincing to chase hard after God. She can dress herself. She can handle herself. She can read the Bible herself. And she practices self-discipline, so that she is not a burden on anyone else, but knows to cast all her cares on Jesus first and foremost. Her greatest desire is to remain in Christ and to be covered with His joy and peace that only comes from pure communion with Him.

"In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety."
~ Psalm 4:8

"The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake."
~ Psalm 23:1-3

"My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise You with joyful lips, when I remember You upon my bed, and meditate on You in the watches of the night; for You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I will sing for joy."
~ Psalm 63:5-7

In these Scripture passages above, we see why a Biblically submissive woman, who is abandoned to Christ alone, can rest and rest well - in peace and with great joy. She is covered! She is covered by the LORD God Almighty Himself, as she takes refuge in Him and never leaves the shelter of His wings!

There is nothing better than to wake up to our awesome Father God, mediate on His Word throughout the day, then end each day with His Word, so that you may rest in His love.

I found it peculiar that this, "hands-on" hardworking woman would be dressed in fine linen and purple. For fine linen, from the worldly perspective, wrinkles easily and really doesn't seem to be something that is well-suited to be worn for a lowly, manual laborer. And then, there's the purple, which is also another color most often used to represent royalty. So how can a "working woman" be dressed in such refined clothing, while engaging in so much manual labor?

The answer is this. A Biblically submissive wife recognizes herself to have been adopted into a royal heritage through the blood of Jesus Christ, therefore, she does what her Master does; she comes to serve and not to be served. She is dressed in purple to denote her royal heritage in the Kingdom of God. Not to lord it over others that she is somehow better or greater than they are. She is dressed the way she is for no other purpose, than to proclaim that she is one with the King of kings, and the Lord of lords - the One and only Son of God, Jesus the Christ.

But there is still the question of why she is dressed in fine linen. The Hebrew word used here, for fine linen is: shesh¹, which means: something bleached white, byssus, linen, fine linen.

"Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out,

'Hallelujah!
For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.
Let us rejoice and exult and give Him the glory,
for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His Bride has made herself ready;
it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure' --

for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints."

~ Revelation 19:6-8
(emphasis added)

The Greek word used in Revelatian 19:8 is bussinos² which is derived from the Hebrew word, bussos³ which means: 1) byssus, a species of Egyptian flax; 2) linen made from byssus, very costly, delicate, soft, white and also of a yellow colour.

Both the Hebrew word shesh, used in Proverbs 31:22 and bussos, used in Revelation 19:8 have the same definition: white byssus, which is a species of the Egyptian flax. From this comparison, we are able to fully comprehend why King Lemuel's mother found it to be significant to mention that this woman, this Biblically submissive woman she desired for her son to seek as a wife; be clothed in fine linen. And we find the significance here in Revelation 19:6-8 as God revealed to the Apostle John that fine linen represents the righteous deeds of the saints.

With everything that we have learned about this woman of God thus far, no one can argue that she is a woman not only of fine stature, but also a woman who beautifully manifests our Lord Jesus' humble, servant's heart.

"who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men."

~ Philippians 2:6-7

In conclusion, she is covered! Covered by the blood of the Lamb of God, that cleanses and purifies her of all her unrighteousness! She is covered! Covered and sealed by the Holy Spirit of God, until the day of redemption! And while, here on earth, she is covered! Covered by her earthly husband God has provided her, to be His hands, feet, and wing of protection from Satan's cunning deceptions. And with great wisdom, she remains in and under all that God has given her as a covering.

Gracious Lord God and Redeemer! Thank You for covering us! Thank You for washing us with the precious blood of Your Holy Son, Jesus, so that we might see Your face and one day, see You in full glory! Thank You for calling us to Yourself and stripping us of our unrighteousness and filthy rags, and clothing us with the righteousness of Jesus - with purity, love, goodness, humility and good works. Whether we clean toilets, wipe our babies' bottoms, cook, or sweep our floors, please Father, help us to remember that it is all for You so that we may not be robbed of our joy. I know if we store all our hope, all our joy and our everything in You, we will not be robbed, for who can come against You Lord and steal anything from You? Create in us, pure hearts, clean hands and Jesus' humble spirit that we may, in all things bring You honor, glory and praise.

Homework:

Continue with your Love Dare Journal. Please be sure not to miss a day or delay in fulfilling each day's love dare.
As usual, look up every Scripture in this lesson and journal all those that apply to you and where you are personally in your walk with the Lord, right now.
Memorize Psalm 4:8, 23:1-3, 63:5-7 and Revelation 19:6-8.

Footnotes:

1. shesh- Strong's 08336, Net Bible. Direct link is: http://net.bible.org/strong.php?id=08336
2. bussinos - Strong's 1039, Net Bible. Direct link is: http://net.bible.org/strong.php?id=1039
3. bussos - Strong's 1040, Net Bible. Direct link is: http://net.bible.org/strong.php?id=1040

Proverbs 31:21 - She Fears God Alone

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:44:00 +0000

In the beginning of this study (WEEK #2: The Wife and The Rib) you were asked a very important question that you should consider every day of your life: "How will you use the 'power' God gave you, today?"

I pray daily that we will all choose to serve Christ first, by submitting to our husbands, thereby providing protection for them and our entire households from the schemes of Satan. As I have stated in previous lessons, a Biblically submissive wife is no wimp. No, she is definitely a force to be reckoned with; as she must not only carry her own burdens, but that of her husband and entire household; and perhaps, the burdens of other brothers and sisters in Christ along the way. Unlike an un-Biblically submissive woman who has been "liberated" by society through the feminist movement, who, at best carries only her own burdens.

But the Biblically submissive wife, puts her full trust in the LORD God alone, therefore, all her work is good, is blessed and very fruitful. As a matter of fact, her life so overflows with good fruit in Christ, that anyone who is in her vicinity can't help but be blessed themselves....even without her knowledge!

Knowing this, I don't think I prefer to be "liberated" by society's feminists movement; as I find it very suppressive, demeaning, and limits a woman in exercising all her God-given gifts and abilities. I prefer to be a Biblically submissive wife who faithfully exercises the quiet characteristics of all the strong, influential women of Scripture who were so beautiful and precious in the sight of the LORD God Almighty.

I would like to take today's verse and break it down into two very delicious morsels. Are you hungry? Good! Then let's dig into the delectable word or our LORD and feast on His goodness and absolute truth!

First Slice

"She is not afraid of snow for her household," (ESV)

or

"When it snows, she has no fear for her household;" (CJB)¹

According to this portion of the verse, a Proverbs 31, Biblically submissive wife, does not have any fear of the winter, or give any honor (reverence) to the cold, or is frightened by anything winter might bring: whether it brings snow, illness, the death of her crops or freeze any or her assets. No, it seems the winter has really no significant effect on such a woman.

Let's dig deeper into God's glorious Word and find out why, she has no fear of the things any average woman would fear.

The word "afraid" or "fear" used here in Proverbs 31:21, is a verb and comes from the Hebrew word, yare' which means: to fear; morally, to revere; caus. to frighten.²

There are other Scriptures that use the Greek noun, phobos which is defined to be the word that: first had the meaning of "flight," that which is caused by being scared; then, "that which may cause flight,".³

As you can see, there is a stark difference between the definition of the Hebrew word yare' used here in Proverbs 31:21, and the Greek word phobos used elsewhere in Scripture. Yare' is used to describe a sense of fear due to awe, which causes a person to desire to draw near and find shelter in that which produced this sense awe. Whereas phobos is used to describe the sense of being scared, not awe, but afraid of some impending doom that it causes a person to "take flight" rather than draw near.

Understanding the definition of the word "fear" is important to note before we examine the verses below that also refer to "the fear of God":

Deuteronomy 10:12-13
Psalm 2:11-12⁴ and 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Psalm 19:9 and 1 John 4:18
Psalm 111:10
Isaiah 11:3-4 (a prophecy about Jesus) and Matthew 5:3, 5
Philippians 2:12-13

"The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil."

~ Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
(emphasis added)

All the Scriptures noted above, pertaining to the "fear of the Lord" are so full of God's holy and pure love, they are reassuring, bring comfort and security found only in Christ; reminding our hearts and minds of our Father God's promises only for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose in Christ Jesus our Lord. Truly, there is no higher calling or greater honor in Heaven or on earth, than to be called, the children of the Most High God, and that is what we are! (1 John 3:1)

One of the reasons a Biblically submissive wife runs to God instead of running away from Him is because she knows that He is not only Sovereign, but He is also Good! One of the things I daily thank God for, is that He is good! Could you imagine if Satan, who is evil had God's omnipotence? I shudder to even think of such a horror! Which brings me into even deeper gratitude that God is Sovereign AND Good! Is this part of your daily offering of gratitude to God? Because if it isn't, make sure it is now.

As I was studying and preparing to write this lesson, I was also telling God how grateful I am that He is Sovereign and Good. During this time, I was reminded of a movie. The movie is "The Second Chance" (starring, Michael W. Smith). In this movie, we are reminded Who we are serving, and Who we are living for - Christ Jesus, alone. Not for our so-called reputations, not for the applause of men, not for selfish gain and certainly not out of God's divine order of things.

I don't usually quote movies, but this is a great movie about keeping our priorities straight (constantly acknowledging that Jesus Christ is our First Love). This quote comes at the very end of the movie when the Senior Pastor of a mega-church realizes that he has become weak spiritually, and therefore gave Satan a foothold to drag him down to the belief that bigger always means better; that more praise from men, meant greater success; and ultimately the pleasure of men was more important than the One he committed his life; to love and serve, Jesus our Lord. But God is gracious and compassionate and is slow to anger and quick to forgive those who truly repent and seek His face. And when this Senior Pastor does this, God blesses him, by allowing him to clearly see what had become of him. That is when this pastor makes this statement:

"I want to remember what it's like to be that lightening rod; to fear absolutely nothing, but God Almighty."

And this my sisters, is something we should all be able to say.

All the Scriptures we have read in reference to the word "fear" used in Proverbs 31:21, state that a Biblically submissive, Proverbs 31 wife does not "fear" or is not "afraid" of her circumstances, anything or anybody. The Scriptures have made it unequivocally clear that this woman does not give anything or anyone the supreme position in her life, that only belongs to God. She fears God, and God alone; therefore she is secure in all things, regardless of her circumstances. She has learned the secret and blessing of contentment: whether well fed or hungry, in abundance or in need; she is confident that she can do all things through Christ, who alone strengthens her. (Philippians 4:11-13 and 1 Timothy 6:6-7)

Second Slice

"for all her household are clothed in scarlet." (ESV)

or

"since all of them are doubly clothed" (CJB)

Scarlet and crimson were the firmest of dyes, and thus not easily washed out.⁵ This would explain why Kings and Queens chose to use this red (scarlet) that sometimes looked purple, for their royal robes. It would be clear that it would be most unseeming for someone of royal stature to wear something that would fade. Just as the LORD Himself is dressed in His unfading light, where there is no darkness that can neither affect nor diminish His brilliance; He will also, bestow upon His children unfading crowns of glory when we go Home (1 John 1:5 and 1 Peter 5:4).

Why did King Lemuel's mother decide it was significant to mention that a Biblically submissive wife clothes herself and her entire household in scarlet? The answer is found in the Scripture below:

"but let your adornment be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable [unfading] beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."

~ 1 Peter 3:4

Interestingly, both the curtains for the tabernacle and the veil (that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place) was made of blue, purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen. (Exodus 26:1 and 31-34). As we know, the Lord Jesus Christ promises to make the sins, that is like scarlet (not easily washed out), as white as snow (pure) for all who repent and trust their lives to Him.

Can you imagine? Our sins are so disgusting, so putrid, so repulsive, filthy and vile in the sight of a holy and pure God, that the only thing that can cleanse us, is the precious blood of God Himself, fully manifested in the man, Jesus Christ? I know for certain if there was anything else, any other way, our sins could be cleansed, God would have chosen to spare His One and Only Son. As we know, the Son asked, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will." (Matthew 26:39) And we also know, the Father allowed His One and Only Son to drink the full cup of God's wrath, applying the righteous punishment for the sins we committed, all on the only One who was without sin. Now I see why God had the Prophet Isaiah prophecy that while our sins are like scarlet, He will cleanse us, as white as snow.(Isaiah 1:18) This is why Christ alone, is worthy of all our love, praise and worship.

It is clear why a Biblically submissive, Proverbs 31 wife clothes herself and her entire household in scarlet. According to all the Scriptures we've referenced thus far, regarding the color scarlet, it is evident that she recognizes both she and her household are blessed partakers of royal heritage; and that she possesses an unfading beauty that is so precious to God, the fragrance of Christ permeates throughout her household, bringing life (salvation) into her home. (2 Corinthians 2:14-17)

The CJB version reads: "since all of them are doubly clothed." What does it mean to be "doubly" clothed? And why does one use a double portion of clothing?

Well, to answer these questions in the physical sense; to be doubly clothed simply means to have two layers of clothing to cover a person from cold, from sickness and/or from any exterior elements that may bring harm to a person otherwise. When someone wears two layers of clothing, it is never in usual or comfortable circumstances. No, when someone wears two layers of clothing, it is because they are in unusually cold and/or difficult situations that causes them to require a second layer in order to successfully endure the harsh conditions or exposure to harmful elements.

In the spiritual sense, these questions can be answered for those who are in Christ; have been washed by the blood of Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, and sealed with the Holy Spirit until our bodies are redeemed. Therefore the blood of Jesus saves us, and the Holy Spirit of God sanctifies us through and through, keeping us safe and protected from our own sinful flesh, all of Satan's schemes, and the temptations of this world. Thus, children of God are "doubly" clothed, by Christ's robe of righteousness and sealed by His Holy Spirit.

Proverbs 31:21 is a beautiful depiction of a woman who loves and fears God. She stands in awe of His Sovereignty and goodness. Her eyes are fixed on Jesus, therefore the fierce winds of trials and the crashing waves of uncertain times do not shake her, because she knows full well that her life is kept by the Solid Rock - Jesus Christ Himself. Therefore she is free to go on about the work He has given her, during her short visit here.

As we have already seen and will continue to see in Proverbs 31, a Biblically submissive wife, confidently and faithfully goes about her work, with much strength and endurance. She makes sure her heart is well dressed with gratitude, humility, joy and peace. And she makes sure her outer dress matches her inner dress, by clothing herself and her entire household in a manner that signifies that they are all of royal heritage, and well protected as their robes are made of scarlet and are of double thickness.

Lord God in Heaven, thank You for giving us Your Word so that we might find life, prosperity and honor in Your Son. We so desire to bask in the abundant life that Jesus promised us! Prosperity that the world can neither give, nor touch, richness in Christ our God! We want to be adorned with Christ's love and indulge in His intimacy! Oh LORD our God, thank You for your loving-kindness! We are grateful that You are Sovereign AND Good! Thank You for Your gift of repentance that works salvation! Teach us LORD to love others as You have loved us! May all people bless and give honor and glory to the Name of Jesus, because of Your daughters who love You!

Homework:

Continue with your Love Dare Journal. Please be sure not to miss a day.
Look up every Scripture in this lesson and journal all those that apply to you and where you are personally in your walk with the Lord, right now.
Choose 1,2 or 3 of the nine (9) passages of Scripture listed above (in the First Slice) that refer to "the fear of God, then memorize these Scriptures only.

Footnotes:

1. CJB- refers to The Complete Jewish Bible version.
2. yare' - (3372, Strongest Strong's Concordance ref. number) definition provided by Biblos.com. To view the direct link, please click: Proverbs 31:21 Lexicon with Strong's Dictionary.
3. phobos - (5401, Strongest Strong's Concordance ref. number) definition provided by Vine's Concise Dictionary of Bible Words. Although I use this, it is old, and was published in 1999 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. I recommend you purchase the newer and better version that includes many more word searches in their original Hebrew and Greek: Vine's Concise Expository Dictionary.
4. Psalm 2:11-12 - causes a person to rest in God's peace (Psalm 4:8) and also brings about God's salvation in a person's life, both here on earth and eternally.
5. Scarlet - definition provided by the Easton Bible Dictionary. You may find the complete definition for the color scarlet at http://eastonsbibledictionary.com/search--scarlet.

Proverbs 31:20 - Open Hand, Clean Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 20:17:00 +0000

"When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my Son.¹ The more they were called, the more they went away; they kept burning offerings to idols.

Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk; I took them up by their arms, but they did not know that I healed them.

I led them with cords of kindness, with the bands of love, and I became to them as one who eases the yoke on their jaws, and I bent down to them and fed them."

~ Hosea 11:1-4
(emphasis added)

Please get your Bible and look up this passage in Hosea. Now, take a highlighter and highlight the following:

loved him (verse 1)
they were called (verse 2)
I who taught....to walk (verse 3)
I healed (verse 3)
I led them (verse 4)
I bent down.....fed them (verse 4)

Okay, now take either a colored pencil or an archival quality pen and underline the following:

they went away (verse 2)
they did not know (verse 3)

Write in your journal or binder, the stark difference the Holy Spirit revealed to you regarding what you highlighted verses what you underlined. Now, examine your own heart and see if you are now, or ever have behaved as Israel did, so that God has or is saying this about you. If the Spirit moves you, kindly share what God taught you in a post on your blog, use Mr. Linky, and be sure to link your post back here.

Who may go up to the mountain of ADONAI? Who can stand in his holy place?
Those with clean hands and pure hearts, who don't make vanities the purpose of their lives or swear oaths just to deceive.

~ Psalm 24:3-4
(CJB)

Who is this Scripture speaking of? Christ Jesus our Lord. For it is clear that only our mighty and awesome Savior can stand before the Father with clean hands, a pure heart and who's mouth has never spoken deceitfully. And with His clean hands, pure heart and pure mouth our Lord Jesus washed our sins; purified our hearts with His word and thereby cleansed our filthy mouth which speak from the overflow of our hearts.

And what does a biblically submissive woman's hands look like? They are clean, strong, and very gentle. They are used for pouring out refreshment to those who thirst for something good to fill their mouths, their bodies, their souls, their minds and their spirit. They can take something as simple as a clay earthenware and clean the inside as well as the outside, fill it with what is good, pure and uncontaminated so that they may offer something good to those who are thirsty. They are ready. They are prepared. And therefore they seek every opportunity to give to those who are poor and needy. (Galatians 6:9-10)

"For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us."

~ 2 Corinthians 4:6-7
(emphasis added)

As I have examined my own heart and tested it with the Scripture we read in Hosea 11:1-4, I can do nothing except openly confess that I too have been to God and done to God, all that Israel was and did.

Just like Israel, I have been loved, called, taught to walk, healed and led by God with His awesome grace, faithful mercy, loving-kindness and patience that was fueled by His incomprehensible compassion lavished onto such a rebellious, stiff-necked daughter like me. And what was my response to God for pouring out His glorious riches upon my life? Like Israel, I went away in my pride thinking I deserved such kindness and deserved more, because I was sure somehow, I was so holy, much holier than my husband that I had in a way, earned this unmerited favor I received from the LORD. This attitude, naturally became the poison that defecated the stench of self-glorification. Which led me into the cesspool of "holier than thou" prayers and attitude towards my husband. I was so far into my sin, that I even began to pray and ask God to cause my husband to have an affair so I could divorce him. I felt as if my husband was holding me back because he was not near as spiritual and holy as I was and I felt as if he was keeping me from experiencing the full potential of all that God made me to be.

Being the easily deceived woman that I am, my sin gave Satan enormous freedom to have his way with me. Gratefully, the LORD is God. He is Sovereign and wooed me to Himself - which in the light of His glory, not only was I terrified to be in His presence, but I clearly saw myself as He sees me and cried out as the Prophet Isaiah did:

" 'Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!' "

~ Isaiah 6:5

God so kindly and graciously led me by His Word that if I did not have clean hands and a pure heart, FIRST with my love and devotion to Christ, second to my husband, third to my children, fourth to homemaking, and fifth to ministering to everyone else (in that order), then I would continue to live in the chaotic, unfulfilling, frustrating lifestyle I had created for myself.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones."

~ Proverbs 3:5-8
(emphasis added)

It turned out, it wasn't my husband that was holding me back from experiencing the abundant life in Christ I had always wanted; it was me and my self-centered, self-glorifying and self-deception of who I really was, that was holding me captive. That day, the LORD was kind enough to reveal to me that my husband was not my enemy; no, instead, the enemy, Satan was and still is my enemy. God graciously and gently revealed to me the pain I was feeling, was from the tearing of my body (by emotionally and spiritually breaking my covenant with my husband and God); as I had been made one, in flesh and spirit with my husband in Christ Jesus. The pain I was experiencing was from my own hands, as I would daily rip my arm off and give it to Satan so he could beat me with it. I know Satan has a bag full of tools to beat me with, and after God had revealed this truth to me, I certainly was no longer going to participate in helping my enemy beat me with a part of my own body (my husband) by ripping it off and willingly handing it to Satan. As Scripture says, we are not unaware of the devils schemes.

"so you should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. So I beg you to reaffirm your love for him. For this is why I wrote, that I might test you and know whether you are obedient in everything. Anyone whom you forgive, I also forgive. What I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ, so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.

~ 2 Corinthians 2:7-11
(emphasis added)

The LORD spoke this truth to me with the above verse, to guide me and lead me in the Way that I should go so that I might truly behave as the "rib" and protect my husband's vigor (his heart) and his atmosphere (his lungs), as we discussed in the lessons in WEEK # 2.

Truths to savor:

Keep God's order of things. Willingly stepping out of God's design, means I am willingly choosing to step outside of His protection; who, on this earth, is my husband. (1 Corinthians 11:3 & 8-10)
Presuming I am more spiritual or more holy than my husband because outwardly, it appears that I spend more time in Scripture, in prayer, volunteering at the church, etc. causes me to give Satan free reign over my mind and heart; returning me back to the Garden where woman was first deceived by the hunger for knowledge and self-rule. (1 Timothy 2:11-14)
If I do well, my husband receives the glory; just as Christ receives his due glory and praise when His Bride does well. (1 Corinthians 11:7, Proverbs 12:4 & 31:23)
If I fail, my husband receives the punishment, blame and shame; just as Christ who is our Husband, took our punishment, blame and shame because He is over His Bride; as the husband is over the wife. Eve sinned first, but Adam was the one God came looking for and Adam was the one who received the greatest punishment: the death of all creation, and spiritual death for all humanity. Eve's punishment only deals with women, and not even all women, as not all women have children or get married. (Genesis 3:6, 9, 16-19) Therefore, how you submit as a wife, strongly affects your husband's relationship with God. You can be like Sarah and encourage your husband to remain intimate with God through your Biblical submission, gentleness, and encouragement when he does well and comfort when he fails. Or you can be like Eve and be used as Satan's tool to wedge a chasm between your husband and God.
A proud, boisterous, self-centered and pretentious woman who does not find herself fully satisfied in Christ, drains her husband and takes up so much of her husband's time, strength and resources, that she completely disables him to draw near to God as she becomes Satan's tool to distract the head away from God so the entire household is in disarray. (Genesis 3:6)
Your children are watching. If you have girls, they will learn from you how to be a wife. And depending on what you teach her through your actions, is how she will learn to either be a Biblically submissive wife which is so precious to God or she will learn how to be a contentious wife that rots everything she touches. (The one time Sarah was un-submissive and attempted to "help God", Ishamael was born, who is the father of the Muslim nation; Rebekah favored Jacob and taught him how to manipulate situations to "help God" fulfill His promises, which taught Jacob to have problems in his own marriages, due to favoritism and manipulation and so on and so on.)
Your children are watching. If you have boys, they will marry a woman just like you. And if you desire for your boys to marry a woman who loves them, Biblically submits to them and gives them honor and respect, then it is advisable that you first do it with your own husband. It is a well-known fact that men who marry opinionated, "bossy" women, were raised by one.

Therefore, how can a Biblically submissive woman open her hand to the poor and reach out her hands to the needy?

She must first, clean her vessel inside (her heart),
Then clean her vessel on the outside (her actions) as she practices daily sanctification, with repentance by washing herself with God's word.

In order to do this, she must first keep her priorities straight so that she may be fully satisfied in Christ alone. For if she herself is poor (in spirit because of the chaos and separation she has created in her own marriage), and if she herself is needy (because she does not fully satisfy herself in Christ and expects her earthly husband to fulfill all her needs), then how can she offer anyone anything?

Since God alone is good; then anything absent of God is not good. Therefore a wife that does not posses the good gift God gave to all wives, then she can not have anything good to offer anyone else. For one can only share what one already possesses.

For if the Lord our God, "bent down" to feed us yet while we were still so far away, how much more shall we, equal sinners to our husbands, "bend down" and submit to them out of our love and devotion to Christ, our Savior and Lord. Only then, can we "bend down" and feed others.

Lord God, help us to open our hands to receive anything You choose to give us, for everything from You is good. Search our hearts oh Lord, know them, test our anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in us gracious Father and lead us in the Way everlasting. Purify our hearts and cleanse them with Your word. Help us mighty Father God to clean our homes with Your Spirit so that the aroma of Christ may extend from our home to those outside, in order to save some. Bless our families Father with Your goodness. Protect us Lord from the schemes of the devil and keep us from stepping into foolishness.

Homework:

Continue with your Love Dare Journal.
Look up every Scripture in this lesson and journal all those that apply to where you are in your walk with the Lord, right now. Memorize these Scriptures only.
If necessary, apologize to your husband for any unsubmissive act you've committed or words you have used to burden him so that his thoughts are so consumed with pleasing you, that he has forgotten to please God first.
If you are beating yourself up right now....stop it! God never guilts us, He only convicts us. To discern the difference, read: The Difference Between Guilt and Conviction
Write your husband a love letter, telling him how much you appreciate how hard he works for your family and include any Scripture(s) the Holy Spirit brings to your heart to encourage your husband by sharing how you see God's grace demonstrated through him.

Footnotes:

1. Matthew 2:13-15 - this prophecy spoken from Hosea, now fulfilled in the New Testament. Click here to read this passage online.

Proverbs 31:19 - She's a Distaff

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:42:00 +0000

I'm sure you're saying to yourself, "She's a distaff? How is a woman a distaff? I thought a distaff was a tool used for sewing? If she's a distaff, does that mean I'm one?" If this is what you were wondering after reading the title, then here are the answers to your questions "Yes.", "Yes.", "Yes." and "Yes, you can be, if you'd like!"

dis'-taf (pelekh): This word occurs once in Proverbs 31:19; "spindle" is found in the same passage. In the Revised Version (British and American) the meanings of the two words have been exchanged. See SPINNING.¹

Below are two other sources, for a deeper meaning of the the word, distaff (pelekh):

Easton's Bible Dictionary²

(Hebrews pelek, a "circle"), the instrument used for twisting threads by a whirl (Proverbs 31:19).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language²

1. (n.) The staff for holding a bunch of flax, tow, or wool, from which the thread is drawn in spinning by hand.

2. (n.) Used as a symbol of the holder of a distaff; hence, a woman; women, collectively.

I'm sure you've all heard the term "old spinster" used to describe an older woman who is unmarried. Just the thought of the word "old spinster" brings about a picture in our minds of and old woman, with a scowl on her face, who is grumpy and keeps alone due to the fact that everyone annoys her, as she equally annoys them. According to the definitions from above, this term comes from the word "distaff" - as women of old have often been seen to weave threads and make clothing, curtains, or any other item that could be made from wool or flax. But why could such diligently, hard-working women earn such a demeaning and disdaining connotation of the word "distaff" to express her character? How did it come about that such fine women who worked faithfully to clothe others, make bedding and provide coverings for people, end up being referred to as a grumpy "old spinster"?

From the origin of the word "distaff", it is reasonable to conclude that being referred to as a "distaff" or a "spinster" would be a compliment, not an insult. But somehow we find ourselves once again, far removed from the original intent of what God created to be beautiful and encouraging, into becoming something not quite as lovely; once again accomplished by the hands of foolish and ungodly women.

The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down."
~ Proverbs 14:1

The Eve complex all women struggle with in our flesh: the desire to be our "own woman" and be our own god, was such a concern, even in the days of the Apostle Paul that the Holy Spirit inspired him to write to Titus exhorting him to ensure that sound doctrine was being taught to all the "old" and "new" Christians in the church; so that the Word of God might not be reviled due to any ungodly living amongst His children. In Titus 2 verses 3-5 the Apostle Paul exhorts Titus to teach:

"Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may be not reviled."

Originally, to be a "spinster" or "distaff" was a compliment. As those who could both hold a distaff and spindle in her hand had to be strong (physically and spiritually), intelligent, well-skilled, patient and demonstrated much endurance as she completed this arduous task that inevitably was always a blessing to many others. Such a woman is exampled for us even in the New Testament; her name was Tabitha (Dorcas)³.

Let's read a little bit about this spinster, this distaff of old, mentioned here in Acts 9 verses 36b and 39c (to read how God used her life to save others, please read Acts 9:36-43):

"She was full of good works and acts of charity."
"All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them."
(emphasis added)

It is obvious that Tabitha (Dorcas) was a distaff, a spinster. And it is obvious that the thought of her did not bring an image of a grumpy, old, lonely lady into anyone's minds. Instead, when people thought of Tabitha, they smiled, they felt relieved - as if their burdens were lifted, just knowing she was there, near them. And as we read above, she was certainly not lonely. She was well-loved, respected, and surrounded by those who clearly saw the work and character of Christ within her.

There were many women of old, before Tabitha, that gave the name "spinster" a good reputation. And Tabitha certainly upheld the high standard of such a woman who proved: "I can do all things through Him [Christ] Who strengthens me." So, what happened?

Well, the "second wave of feminism" started in the 1960's and bread women like Madalyn Murray O'Hair, as well as the famous case of "Roe v. Wade" which legalized the murdering of unborn children in 1973 (noted in Week #3, Lesson 6). It was after this time, that the once well-regarded term used to describe a hard-working, diligent, skilled, single-woman; became known as a "cast-a-way", a rejected single woman that no one wanted to marry, and was left to her meager, diminutive and unimportant job of weaving fine linens to cloth others and provide coverings for people and their households in many other ways. The women who started the feminist movement no longer felt that a woman should be taught to love her husband and children, but was told she should not need a man. She was taught that if she ever chose to have children, they ought to be grateful that someone so smart, independent and strong, was their mother, instead of considering her children to be a blessing to her, and a huge compliment from the Lord Who entrusted her with one of His creation.

The feminist movement taught women many erroneous things about what it means to be a real woman. And that's when Satan won one of his greatest battles, as he re-used the same scheme and temptation Eve succumbed to in the Garden: "you will be like god." (Genesis 3:5) Our enemy, the devil, stripped away the beauty and unmatched essence of a quiet, gentle woman God created in order to help the man remain intimate with his Maker. He did it in the Garden and did it again in the 1960's. And we're still suffering from this deception today. But we don't have to - in Christ, we can prevail as godly women, who truly know and understand the strength it takes to humble oneself to another equal sinner.

God uses the number 40 (in Scripture) as the time of preparation:

40 days and 40 nights Moses was with God on the Mountain to receive the holy Law, the Ten Commandments;
God caused the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years to rid them of the stubborn, foolish and rebellious generation and prepare the new generation to obey God as they inherit the Promised Land;
Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit to be tempted for 40 days and 40 nights by Satan before the Lord Jesus would begin His official ministry of reconciling sinful man to holy, Father God;
and for us as mothers, we carry our children in our womb for 40 weeks, before the child is ready, is prepared to take his/her first breathe on his/her own.

Becoming a Biblically submissive wife is not an overnight occurrence. If it were so, then it would also only have an overnight stay. And this is surely not God's desire. For the works of God are everlasting and grow more and more beautiful as time passes - instead of springing up only for a moment, then fading away as quickly as it came. (Matthew 13:20-22) May we, as daughters of the Most High God, never have hearts that are as hard as rocks, nor allow the cares of this world (busyness, even in with "good" things) cause the word of God spoken to us to be chocked out; causing us to become ineffective and unfruitful.

Our God is patient, and He takes His time molding, pruning and refining His beloved children. For as we all know, the things that take the most time, effort and labor, are the things we treasure the most.

Therefore, I have a 40 day challenge for you. For the next 40 days:

Read your Bible a minimum of three times a day. Why did I choose three? Because that's how many times a day we spend feeding our physical bodies that are fading away. Therefore, should we not then, invest at least as much, if not even more in feeding our spiritual bodies that will live forever? (2 Corinthians 4:16-18) Besides, if you're doing this study faithfully, then you will have no trouble meeting this portion of the challenge as God has so chosen to saturate this study with His Word; for which I am eternally grateful.
I challenge you to take the Love Dare 40 Day Journey (I will be too. Click the link to find out how you can purchase the Love Dare Journal) in conjunction with doing this study. The Love Dare challenge is not only for marriages that are "on the rocks", but even for those marriages who are founded on The Rock, Jesus Christ. As wonderful as my marriage is now, I know that if I don't continue to work at it, it won't always stay this way.
Faithfully do this study, do not let Satan distract you from accomplishing the one thing God uses to demonstrate to the world how awesome it was that Christ, Who Is God, submitted Himself to the Father and sacrificed Himself for the salvation of the world. (Philippians 2:6-8). According to Scripture, as wives, we are the tool God uses to share this glorious truth and His miraculous work among sinners; for as the Son and Father are equal in nature (God), they have different roles to fulfill - so too, while husbands and wives are equal in nature (sinners), we have different roles fulfill as well. Let nothing distract you!
Love the sisterhood and extend encouragement, prayers and every expression of agape love to demonstrate your gratitude to God for His gracious outpouring of loving-kindness to you.
Pray without ceasing, with thanksgiving in all things. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 & Philippians 4:4-7)

Gracious Lord God, please help us and protect us. Keep us from worldly cares, or the deception of even the "good" things that might swallow up our time so that we have no time to spend intensely with You. Keep us from being daughters that only express love to you and others with our lips, but with hearts that are far from you, as our actions prove opposite of our words. Help us Lord to lead our emotions, instead of allowing our emotions to lead us. As we know that our hearts are truly deceitful and wicked above all things, and only You holy Father, know it and can purify it. Blessed be Your glorious Name Father! Cover us with Your wing as we strip ourselves naked, making ourselves vulnerable, so that we might be more easily conformed to the likeness of Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank You gentle and kind Father. Thank You that You hear the prayers of Your children. Thank You that You love us perfectly. I humbly and gratefully come to You, in the name of our blessed Savior, Jesus.

Footnotes:

1. definition of "distaff" - as found in the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, through Biblos.com
direct link is: http://bibleencyclopedia.com/search--distaff

2. Easton's Bible Dictionary & Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language - used for the definition of "distaff", found at: http://eastonsbibledictionary.com/distaff.htm

3. Tabitha (Dorcas) - Tabitha is Aramaic and Dorcas is Greek; they both mean gazelle.

New Features!

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 09:10:00 +0000

Hello my faithful sisters!

I wanted to let you know that I've added a Navigation Bar at the top to provide you with more resources and background information.

Many of you have asked me about the ability to print out the lessons so you can read them on the way to work, put them in your binder you purchased for this study, etc. So I looked into it and found out how to put a PRINT FEATURE at the bottom of each lesson.

You won't see the Print Feature on the main (home) page, but you can either click on a specific lesson from the Table of Contents, or you can just click on the title of each lesson. Doing either of these things will cause the Print Feature to appear at the bottom of each lesson and it will take you directly to your default printer so you can print!

I hope this new Print Feature will help make completing each lesson easier!

Proverbs 31:18 - God's Word, Her Lamp

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:04:00 +0000

Before we dive into the verse we're studying today, Proverbs 31:18, we're first going to learn how to "harmonize" Scripture. What does that mean? That means we're going to learn how to read Scripture from God's perspective and standard and not from man's perspective and standard using Scripture to reveal what Scripture means.

Helpful Bible Study Techniques and Resources

The first thing we must do is read God's word in the context in which He inspired each writer (i.e., was God speaking to the Jews, Gentiles, saved, lost people, men, women, the church, married women, single women, women married to believing husbands, women married to unbelieving husbands, widows, children, orphans, etc.). One of the most dangerous mistakes we make is having an idea, then reading God's word and fitting His word into our idea. As women, we really have to watch for this because Satan our enemy knows how much women love to gain knowledge (just like he deceived Eve in the Garden with the same temptation). So let's put up our shield of faith sisters, the belt of truth, along with every part of the Armor of God and get to it!

One of the best things to use is a Study Bible. Most Study Bibles have a center column that has reference verses listed on them. These reference verses tell you where you can find other places in Scripture where God speaks about the same thing. I've often had to read 12 different Scriptures before I understood what God was trying to teach me! (Jeremiah 9:23-24) But I don't ever mind, because now, I know twelve more verses or passages of Scripture than I knew before....and that's NEVER a bad thing!

We will also use a couple of commentaries today. I want you to take notice though, that we will first harmonize Scripture by using Scripture so that we may not be deceived by Satan to trust a fallible man's writings over that of the LORD our God's inerrant, infallible and authoritative Word. If any commentary contradicts or even presents a "new" way of thinking that is not in accordance or in context with God's Word, then we can be sure that while it may be a nice thought, it is nothing more than that.

She Perceives

Now that the foundation for how we'll be studying God's word today has been laid, let us now meditate on the first portion of Proverbs 31:18 - "She perceives that her merchandise is profitable." To perceive something means much more than just being able to see something or to simply take notice of it. The Hebrew word for perceive used here is ṭā ‘am¹ which means: to taste, to see, to discover by experience. Now let's take a look at Matthew Henry's commentary below:

"She is one that makes what she does to turn to a good account, by her prudent management of it. She does not toil all night and catch nothing; no, she herself perceives that her merchandise is good (v. 18); she is sensible that in all her labour there is profit, and that encourages her to go on in it. She perceives that she can make things herself better and cheaper than she can buy them; she finds by observation what branch of her employment brings in the best returns, and to that she applies herself most closely."

~ Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 31:18
Blue Letter Bible
(emphasis added)

Let us harmonize this first portion of Proverbs 31:18 with another Scripture that uses the same Hebrew word ṭā ‘am so that we may gain a better understanding of what the Proverbs 31 woman does with her merchandise and how it is that she ensures that it will bring a profit.

In 2 Samuel 19:32-38 Barzillai, a wealthy, eighty year old man lived in Mahanaim. Barzillai provided food for King David when he stayed there after fleeing from his son Absalom, who attempted to overtake his throne. We see in verse 35 of this passage, that the same Hebrew word ṭā ‘am is used to describe why Barzillai did not accept King David's generous offer to return to Jerusalem with him to personally be provided by the King for the rest of his life. Barzillai, being a humble servant, states that he is too old to "perceive" that is, to taste, through experience the pleasures of a young man and that it would be better if King David took Chimham in his stead. Some other passages that use this same Hebrew word are: Job 34:1-4 and Psalm 34:8. I won't go into detail with these other passages, as we must move on. But please be sure to click on the links I've provided that you may study them for yourselves.

Through harmonizing these Scriptures and with the help of Matthew Henry's Commentary, we can conclude that a Biblically submissive, Proverbs 31 woman is a highly intelligent, extremely frugal and wise manager of her home and of her God-given gifts, talents and abilities. She does not squander all that God has given her. Instead, she realizes that God has made her to be the greatest blessing her husband will ever have on this earth, and she does well with this knowledge. She doesn't use this knowledge to lord it over her husband, but chooses to utilize everything God has bestowed upon her to honor her husband, exhort and train her children in the Way they should go, and to serve others as God provides her time and resources.

Her Lamp

The Hebrew word used for lamp or candle in Proverbs 31:18 is nēr² which means: lamp (fueled by olive oil); by extension: life (as a burning lamp); light (showing the way of truth).

In Matthew 5:15, our Lord and Master, Jesus uses the Greek word lychnos³ which means: lamp, usually of clay or metal, with olive oil to fuel it's wick (not a candle). As you can perceive, both the Hebrew and Greek words used for lamp, have the same exact meaning. Therefore, we know that we can harmonize these two Scriptures. Let us more closely examine Matthew 5:15 in the context in which it is written, which is found in Matthew 5:13-16. Here Jesus specifically addresses His true disciples, whom He has chosen to be His ambassadors here on earth (2 Corinthians 5:17-20). Therefore, we can firmly identify and personalize this command Christ is giving to all His disciples, then and now - which, to the glory of God, includes us!

The essence of Jesus' command to His disciples in this passage of Matthew is that we are to be the salt of the earth and shine His light (His glory) to all people, so that everyone who sees Christ in us, whether saved or unsaved will give honor and praise to God because they will recognize that what we do, can not be from ourselves, but must come from a higher power - who is the Lord and Master of our souls, Jesus Christ, our God and Savior.

I like how John Gill applies this truth in his exposition of Proverbs 31:18:

her candle goeth not out by night; or "lamp"; her lamp of profession, which is always kept burning, (Luke 12:35) ; or the glorious light of the Gospel, which always continues in the darkest times the church ever has been in; or her spiritual prosperity, which, though it may be damped, will never be extinct; when the candle of the wicked is often put out, (Job 21:17) ; It may denote her diligence in working; who, as she rises early in the morning, (Proverbs 31:15) , so sits up late at night, and is never weary of well doing, night and day. Ambrose interprets it of the lamp of hope, which burns in the night, and by and for which men work, (Romans 8:24) (1 Corinthians 9:10) .

~ The New John Gill Exposition on Proverbs 31:18
StudyLight.org
(emphasis added)

It is clear that when King Lemuel's mother wrote this acrostic poem of the Proverbs 31 woman, she was not insisting nor suggesting that a Biblically submissive wife stay up all hours of the night working until morning arrives. As we discussed in our lesson on Proverbs 31:15, rest and sleep are gifts from God and He intends that we use them - that is, in proportion and moderation as He has commanded us to do with all things.

With this understanding, we are free then, to search deeper into the mind of God (through the Holy Spirit) so that we may fully appreciate His kind and gracious admonition to us as wives, to live according to His statutes and precepts, and not that of the worlds.

Putting It Together

Through our study today, we've learned that a Biblically submissive, Proverbs 31 wife, relies solely on God as her Provider, Jesus as her Savior and the Word of God; in Whom alone she trusts to gain all knowledge, and the Holy Spirit as her Teacher and Counselor - Who imparts upon her wisdom from Heaven, that she may learn from her experiences (good and bad, successes and mistakes) to bring God's good gifts to her husband, children, and all those God has chosen her to influence for His Name's sake.

Homework:

Research and meditate on every Scripture noted in this lesson.
Purchase a Study Bible (if you don't already have one), an exhaustive concordance, Bible dictionary, and/or use the online versions I've used in today's lesson.
Search for other Scriptures that use the same Hebrew words (for perceive and lamp) that we studied today and write them all down in your binder or journal you purchased for this study.
Ask your husband to pray about how God wants to use you to help with your household finances, (i.e., being more frugal with your purchases, making things and selling them or possibly working a part-time job outside the home that would not interfere or hinder your first priority as a keeper of the home). If your husband joyfully jumps at this opportunity to ask you to stop spending so much money, do not be angry, but humbly and kindly accept his rebuke and thank him for helping you become what you desire - more like Jesus. Whatever your husband tells you, receive it as from the Lord EVEN if your husband doesn't pray about it as your Father God in Heaven knows your trust is fully in Him and not your husband, nor any man. God will protect and bless you for your trust and obedience to Him as you submit to your husband without fear.
As always, I am here for you sisters. If you'd like to receive any personal council and prayer from me regarding your specific situation, please email me.

Gracious and gentle Father, keep close watch on the hearts of your precious daughters. Guard our minds from our ruthless adversary that beats us endlessly with his corrupt thinking and foolish knowledge that only puffs up. Keep us humble that we may stand before your throne of Grace with a clear conscience as we remain in Your Son. Lead us this day and every day by Your Word, which is our Lamp in this dark world. Thank You father for Your constant generosity to us! Thank You Lord and Master, for Your mercy and grace. May Your Name forever be praised! In the name of Jesus, I come. Thank You Father!

Footnotes:

1. 2938 - The Strongest Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible - 21^st Century Edition (KJV); fully revised and corrected by John R. Kohlenberger III and James A. Swanson

2. 5216 - The Strongest Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible - 21^st Century Edition (KJV); fully revised and corrected by John R. Kohlenberger III and James A. Swanson

3. 3088 - The Strongest Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible - 21^st Century Edition (KJV); fully revised and corrected by John R. Kohlenberger III and James A. Swanson

Proverbs 31:17 - She Can Dress Herself

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:25:00 +0000

Today we will magnify Proverbs 31:17 and break it up into three delicious morsels, so we can fully savor the richness of this very, very short verse. It always amazes me how I often need so many words to make a little point, but our brilliant Father God can use so few words (only ten [10] in this verse) to make such a large statement. I found it peculiarly interesting that within the 22 verse acrostic poem of the Proverbs 31 woman, there are three (3) verses that contain exactly 10 words: Proverbs 31:13, and Proverbs 31:29, and the verse we're meditating on today, Proverbs 31:17. Very interesting, but we must move on.

The three (3) delicious morsels are:

She dresses herself.
She dresses herself with strength.
She makes her arms strong.

She Dresses Herself

A Proverbs 31, biblically submissive wife, knows how to dress herself. The Hebrew phrase for "she dresses herself" is translated "she girds her loins". To "gird one's loins" is an idiom meaning: to prepare oneself for something requiring readiness, strength, or endurance. Wow, that does not sound like a weak-willed or stupid woman, does it?

Therefore, she dresses herself and does not require, nor does she expect others (i.e., her husband, children, friends, or anyone) to make it easy for her to live as God calls her and has already equipped her to live according to His word, as a Princess of The King of kings and the Lord of lords.

She does not use any worldly excuse to flaunt her freedom in Christ in order to be unsubmissive to her husband and find a way to disregard his guidance and position of spiritual head over her because she has "discovered" Scripture that she feels has set her free. Let me make this point clear, there is no such Scripture. God does not contradict Himself. If He states in one place (although God repeats this concept numerous times) that He commands wives to be submissive to their husbands (even if their husbands do not obey the Word), then you can be assured no Scripture exists that will contradict this command.

"Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants [bondservants] of God."
1 Peter 2:16

The Greek word used in 1 Peter 2:16 is "bondservant", which is actually different from a "servant".

bondservant n. ~ 1. a person who serves in bondage; slave; 2. a person bound to service without wages

servant n. ~ 1. a person employed by another, esp. to perform domestic duties.

Before you read this next verse I want you to know, you're going to need to dress yourself. Dress yourself with humility and an open and malleable heart because this Scripture below is certainly not a "feel good" Word from our Lord, but is good and perfect as He is good and perfect. This passage will be used to conform us more into the beautiful image of Christ our Savior, our First Love.

I trust that those of you who have traveled this far with me down this narrow and challenging path of biblical submission are now ready to take and eat this very solid piece of food. Okay, have you properly dressed yourself? Then, let's go....

"Will any one of you who has a servant [bondservant] plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, 'Come at once and recline at table'? Will he not rather say to him, 'Prepare supper for me, and dress properly [gird yourself], and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink'? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.' "
Luke 17:7-10 (emphasis added)

I hope you can see how necessary it was for me to share this Word from our merciful and kind Lord with you today. Many of you who are currently taking this study are not living in the "model Christian" marriage and I know how much harder it is for you to endure. Although this passage from Luke may have brought tears to your eyes and caused your heart to hurt, please know that because it is the Word of God, it is also used for great healing and to bring you comfort - especially during the most difficult times when your do not receive any affirmation from anyone for your faithfulness, love and devotion to Christ. Dear one, know that our Lord is not one that is far away, but grieves with you and weeps with you. Allow Christ our Lord to comfort you and affirm you when no one else on this earth will. For our husbands are our earthly husbands, but Christ Jesus, the King, the Son of the Most High God, has betrothed us to Himself, and we are His and He cherishes us with a love no man on earth can ever match, for the man Jesus alone is God.

Having this knowledge, we are honored to be called bondservants of Christ, as we strive to live according to His commands out of pure love and gratitude for Who He Is and what He has done for us...without expecting anything in return. A Proverbs 31, biblically submissive wife receives her full reward in Christ Jesus that produces a joy that is hid in God our Father, so that no one can steal it nor will it fade away. For she does not pursue "happiness" as it is man-made and can be stolen and will fade away. No, instead she is at peace and full of confidence because one of her greatest strengths, is joy in the Lord. Being a wise woman, she is well aware that her marriage, her family and her life was not lovingly created by God for her to simply be happy, but to make her holy.

"And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10c

Therefore, she dresses herself. She does not require nor expect anyone to lay out her clothes for her day to day and tell her what she must wear, what the weather is like or what is appropriate for her to wear for each day's activities.

She is wise and has learned to be self-controlled, pure, holy and modest in everything. She does not need others to constantly tell her what to "put on". She is intelligent, and full of godly wisdom from much time spent in God's Word, and is very capable of discerning the current weather conditions (the circumstances of her life), whether it is bright and sunny, dark and gloomy, or thundering with fierce winds that will blow her way (persecutions). No matter the weather, she is not afraid, but she is ready because her trust and hope are only in Christ Jesus her Lord. And who will come up against the Lord God Almighty and prevail? NOBODY!

Therefore, she dresses herself. She does not require nor expect anyone to lay out her "clothes" and daily be told what she must wear. She realizes that although the world may look upon her submissveness and wonder if she's had a lobotomy, she is fully aware that she has not...but she has had a heart transplant worked by the Great Physician, Jesus Christ -- in whom her confidence lies.

And so she dresses herself; with self-control, discipline, and wisdom, she dresses herself daily with the fruit of the Spirit, as she knows that this "adornment" is required for every activity and is appropriate for any occasion.

She Dresses Herself With Strength

The Word of God: Psalm 1:1-3; Ecclesiastes 12:11; 1 Timothy 4:6; 2 Timothy 2:15 , 3:16
The Full Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-19
The Joy of Christ: John 15:10-11; Romans 14:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; Hebrews 12:1-2; James 1:2-4
The Peace of Christ: John 14:27; John 10:30; Philippians 4:7
The Humility of Christ: Isaiah 53:4-5; 66:2; Philippians 2:5-8; Romans 12:16-21; 1 Peter 2:23
The Attitude of Christ: Luke 5:16; Luke 6:22-23, 6:27-36; 2 Corinthians 1:3-5; 2:5-7, 3:4-6; Romans 12:1-3; Ephesians 5:1-2
The Wisdom from the Holy Spirit: Ecclesiastes 7:5, 8-10; 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, 3:18-21, James 3:13-17

"He had no form or majesty that we should look at Him, and no beauty that we should desire Him.
Isaiah 53:2b

She Makes Her Arms Strong

by exercising...

Excellent care of her husband by preferring his needs above her own, or that of her children(s), or anyone else on this earth. A biblically submissive wife never puts her children before her husband or allows them to come between her and her husband; for she is well aware that God has made them one. (Genesis 2:23-24; Mark 10:9)
Tender and wise guidance/counsel for her children, diligently training them in the Way they should go, and loving them enough to discipline when necessary without anger or frustration, but with great love and self-control. (Deuteronomy 6:5-9; Ecclesiastes 8:11, Proverbs 13:24; Ephesians 6:4)
Her faith by carrying the burdens of other brothers and sisters through prayer and good works. (Romans 12:10-13; Galatians 6:2, 10; Ephesians 6:18)
Her love for Christ with the outpouring of love to her community as she strives not to contain herself in a "Christian Bubble", but is effective in sharing the Gospel of Christ to a lost and depraved world through words and deeds - which, if separated, all her efforts will be in vain. (Matthew 28:19-20; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; 2 Timothy 4:2-5)

So put on a pretty dress, comb your hair, wash your face and "gird your loins"! Take off your princess heals and walk with the lowly and work diligently with your hands - and do this all while fully dressed in your "royal robe"! ;-)

Homework:

Take more than one day to do this lesson. And as always, look up EVERY SCRIPTURE.
Choose 4 Scripture passages to memorize, share it with your husband and recite it to him by next week. If you feel you don't fully understand a passage, kindly ask your husband to explain it to you with great humility and reverence.
Practice diligently the 4 Scripture passages you chose to memorize so that you can "work out your salvation". There is no need to ever memorize Scripture if you never intend to put it into practice. Otherwise, the Word of God only because just another thing you know, but do not really understand. (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
Ask your husband out on a date. Plan something that would be relaxing or enjoyable for him. You'll be surprised at how much you begin to enjoy his activities, just because you love watching him experience God's joy.

And now, I leave you with this:

"May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ."
2 Thessalonians 3:5

Proverbs 31:16 - Smart and Classy

noreply@blogger.com (Sunny Shell) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 15:52:00 +0000

As we've carefully examined the character of a Proverbs 31 woman so far (verses 10-15), we can confidently assess that a Biblically submissive wife is not what the world would like to make her out to be. She is not feeble, she is not ignorant, she is not a fool, nor is she uneducated and unfamiliar with hard work and tumultuous trials. A Proverbs 31 woman does not live in Disney World.

Much like a vineyard, she bears much fruit to testify to the awesome work of her Creator. A vineyard that is most productive is planted on mountains, hills or any land area in which the ground slopes. The most productive and healthy vineyards are the ones that are planted on slopes that face the South for greater sun exposure. As a matter of fact, the type of land that produces the best grapes is one that is covered with ordinary, marginal soil, that agriculturist of other produce would never use.

"Due to the porosity of the soil and great drainage the vine roots dig deeply in search of water and minerals which bring complexity to this wine. As the old saying goes 'the worse the soil the better the wine.' "
~ Z Wines USA

I find the vineyard to be much like the rib. Strong and hearty, yet delicate at the same time. Grapes grow better on a hillside (where most other produce can not thrive) as well as grow in "not so spectacular" soil. It is strong, hearty and unusual in that it appears to be quite "low maintenance"....as far as choosing the land in which it is planted. But once it's planted, it needs some Tender Loving Care to survive. It needs to be covered when the winter comes, it needs to be pruned regularly so that it will produce large, beautiful grapes and it needs a trellis to hold it up, because its branches are so delicate, it can't hold the weight of the hearty fruit it bears.

The analogies that comes to mind regarding the similarities between the grapes and a Proverbs 31, Biblically submission wife are:

She is special. She grows under conditions in which no other woman would be able to thrive.
She doesn't need special "soil" (things from this world, i.e., expensive jewelry, clothes, or other indulgences), she only requires lots of exposure to the Son.
She grows on a hillside - the steeper the better. This enables her to "drain" any excess and unneeded "water" (weight) so that she is not saturated by the burdens of this world, which would drown her and hinder her growth.
Because the soil she is planted in is so porous, she has to dig deep into her Foundation (Christ Jesus) so her roots will be firm and strong.
To produce healthy and robust fruit, she MUST be pruned regularly so her leaves (outward beauty and desires of the flesh) do not "steal" all the nutrients necessary in order for her to bear much fruit in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Although her "roots" are strong (because they are founded in Jesus), she still needs a trellis (her husband) to stand tall and hold up her delicate branches so that her fruit is not trampled on, dirtied or injured in any way.
And finally, as the old saying goes for grapes, so it goes for a Biblically submissive woman: "the worse the "soil" (difficult times), the stronger her faith!"

Now let's investigate what else Proverbs 31:16 says about a Biblically submissive woman. Verse 16 states that she knows how to consider a field, buy it and with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.

The word consider means to carefully and thoughtfully contemplate what one is doing. A Biblically submissive woman living in today's world would consider what she devotes her time to BEFORE she signs herself up for any particular commitment. Here are some of the things she might consider:

Will this commitment bring honor to God or bring honor to me?
Have I already consulted with my husband and gone to seek His wise counsel?
Have I given this commitment proper time in prayer?
Do I have enough funds and/or time to engage in this commitment?
Am I willing to fulfill the requirements of this commitment as unto the Lord and not unto man?
Will it bring a great benefit to my household or added and unnecessary burdens?

She also does not engage in any affairs that would cause her family to go into debt, but instead only makes purchases from the "fruit of her own hands" which is the funds she has already earned from previous work she has performed, or funds that have been allotted to her by her husband (as is my case, since I do not work outside of the home, nor own my own business).

In closing, it is obvious that that is Biblically submissive woman is not a boring, mundane, unkempt, mousy woman. To put it simply, she is quite smart and classy!

Homework:

Reread "Welcome & Instructions" for this study.
Memorize today's Scripture verse as well as: Proverbs 19:14, 21; Psalm 116:12-14; and James 4:17
Ask your husband to "quiz" you on your Scripture memorization.
And remember to always read the linked posts from the other sisters taking this study and be sure to encourage one another. This is a hard and difficult road we're traveling to Biblical Submission and we really need each others prayers AND words of encouragement!

sitting silently at His feet,