The Virtue of Reward and Praise

Published on 22 July 2025 at 09:00

"She watches over the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all.' Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates." - Proverbs 31:27-31

Reflection: 

Proverbs 31:27-31 provides a beautiful conclusion to the description of a Godly wife, highlighting her diligence, the praise she receives, and the lasting value of her character. This passage emphasizes the rewards and recognition that come from living a life of virtue and dedication.

The phrase "She watches over the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness" underscores the importance of vigilance and hard work. A Godly wife is attentive to the needs and activities of her household, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Her diligence is a testament to her commitment and responsibility, and she avoids idleness, knowing that her efforts contribute to the well-being of her family.

The verse "Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her" speaks to the recognition and appreciation she receives from her loved ones. Her children acknowledge her dedication and love, calling her blessed. Her husband praises her, recognizing the exceptional qualities she possesses. This praise is a reflection of the impact she has on her family, and it is a source of encouragement and affirmation.

"Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all" highlights the uniqueness and excellence of a Godly wife. While many women may possess admirable qualities, the Godly wife described in Proverbs 31 stands out for her exceptional character and actions. Her virtues set her apart, and she is recognized for excelling in her role.

The verse "Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" emphasizes the lasting value of inner character over external appearances. Charm and beauty may fade, but the fear of the Lord is a quality that endures. A Godly wife is praised not for her outward appearance but for her reverence and devotion to God. This fear of the Lord is the foundation of her character and the source of her strength.

Finally, "Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates" speaks to the rewards of her labor. A Godly wife is deserving of the fruits of her efforts, and her works stand as a testament to her character. Her actions and achievements bring her praise and recognition, both within her household and in the broader community.

Personal Application: 

As we reflect on Proverbs 31:27-31, we can draw inspiration from the virtues of the Godly wife described in this passage. Whether we are wives, mothers, daughters, or sisters, we can strive to embody these qualities in our daily lives.

Let us be vigilant and diligent in our responsibilities, watching over the ways of our households and avoiding idleness. Our efforts contribute to the well-being of our families, and our commitment is a testament to our love and dedication.

We can also seek to earn the praise and recognition of our loved ones through our actions and character. By living a life of virtue and dedication, we can positively impact those around us and receive their appreciation and affirmation.

Let us recognize the lasting value of inner character over external appearances. The fear of the Lord is the foundation of our strength and the source of our praise. By cultivating reverence and devotion to God, we can build a character that endures and brings us lasting recognition.

Finally, let us take pride in the fruits of our labor and allow our works to stand as a testament to our character. Our actions and achievements can bring us praise and recognition, both within our households and in the broader community.

Prayer: 

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the beautiful example of a Godly wife in Proverbs 31:27-31. Help us to embody the virtues of vigilance, diligence, and reverence in our daily lives. Grant us the ability to watch over the ways of our households and avoid idleness, knowing that our efforts contribute to the well-being of our families. May we earn the praise and recognition of our loved ones through our actions and character. Teach us to cultivate inner strength and devotion to you, recognizing the lasting value of the fear of the Lord. Fill our hearts with pride in the fruits of our labor, and let our works stand as a testament to our character. May our lives reflect your love and bring glory to your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

Written by Sarah Leasure

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