Grace and peace on your Wednesday Dear Hearts. ❤
I’m reading Proverbs 31:10-31 in The Message today. There is some pretty powerful imagery here. I wonder if we all see ourselves blessed and a blessing in this way?

This portion of scripture has always given me a sense of inadequacy. Somehow it seems impossible to “measure up” at least to the high standards of King James. Looking at this translation seems to lighten the load a bit. So…I’ve picked out some of the highlights:

• winning my husband’s trust and respect while treating him generously
• preparing nutritious meals
• keeping a neat and organized home
• dressing neatly and keeping myself attractive
• recognizing the worth of my contributions–acknowledging my talents and abilities
• facing each day with a smile
• and, watching what comes out of my mouth

There are other things, of course. And the list will be different for each of us, but this is a start.

A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds. Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it. Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long. She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing. She’s like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises. She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day. She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden. First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day. She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking. She’s quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor. She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear. She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks. Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers. She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops. Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile. When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly. She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive. Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise: “Many women have done wonderful things, but you’ve outclassed them all! ”Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Give her everything she deserves! Adorn her life with praises!

Proverbs 31:10-31 The Message

I hope you’ll take a moment to allow the Lord to point you to the positive and not allow yourself to be pushed into over-analyzing your daily walk any longer. I know I will be aiming for that goal.