she-walks-in-grace

[she-walks-in-grace]

She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet. She makes tapestry for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Proverbs 31:21-22 There are two ways to interpret these verses - literal or spiritual. In this instance I'm going to focus on the spiritual interpretation. As the bible is a living breathing word, each scripture reveals new freshness and insight purposeful to where you're at. This is my insight today, you may have your own revelation. She is not afraid of snow. 🦋 This could also mean tribulation. For all her household are clothed in scarlet. 🦋 This could resemble the blood of Christ. Jesus shed his blood for us so that we could be saved from our sins. When we confess our sins, we are cleansed from unrighteousness and wrapped in God's grace. God's grace brings security, comfort and protection. Therefore, she doesn't have to fear as she knows her faith has accessed God's grace and protection for her family. Her conduct will be a powerful example to her children, and in the case of a marriage between a believer and unbeliever, Paul declares that the unbeliever will be “sanctified” by the believer (1 Corinthians 7:14). Sanctification means the internal transformation of becoming more like Jesus. Therefore she does not fear, but chooses faith that the power of the Holy Spirit within her, may guide her family to salvation. She makes tapestry for herself. 🦋 Tapestry represents her life. There are two sides to a tapestry. The back is the functional side that may appear messy with knotted ends and frayed edges, but the weaving behind the tapestry creates something extraordinary on the front. Likewise her life may be full of frayed edges and knotty ends but this is the functional side that is required to create a magnificent art piece that shines forth. Her clothing is fine linen and purple. 🦋 Purple is the colour of royalty. She is the daughter of God's royal family and her tapestry (life) is woven into the body of Christ. #proverbs31 #wisdom #covenant #grace #tapestry #royalty #faithnotfear #scripture https://www.instagram.com/p/CGeoahdJEfQ/?igshid=xanyhbora9qq

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A Proverbs 31 woman is grounded and secure in 3 pillars of strength: PHYSICAL She wraps herself in strength, might and power in all her works. Proverbs 31:17 She carries out her work with strength and endurance, but it's not in her own strength, it's her strength in Christ whom she carries out her work to His glory. The Lord gives strength to His people, Psalm 29:11. It is through Him she is anointed with the power to accomplish her work. MENTAL: She tastes and experiences a better substance, and her shining light will not be extinguished no matter how dark the night. Proverbs 31:18 Jesus called his disciples to be lights of the world and shine before others. The light of Jesus in her heart shines brightly in all that she does. Her gifts and talents are to glorify God and show others the way. Her light will never go out no matter how much darkness prevails in this world. SPIRITUAL: She stretches out her hands to help the needy and she lays hold of the wheels of government. Proverbs 31:19 Her delight is to equip others and help those in need through her spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts are something every believer is given when they receive the gift of salvation. There are ministry gifts, manifestation gifts and motivational gifts which God empowers us to help one another. Ministry gifts include apostles, prophets, evangalists, pastors and teachers whose roles are to serve others. Manifestation gifts such as knowledge, wisdom, healing and miracles are for the common good. Motivational gifts include encouraging, leading, serving, giving, prophesying and showing mercy. Out of all these gifts, love is the best gift of all, and love is all that matters most 🦋 #proverbs31 #wisdom #love #scripture #ministry #equipping #faith #strength #endurance #gift https://www.instagram.com/p/CGKHRi7p8x6/?igshid=ehjqtu3j8xc9

[she-walks-in-grace]

She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens. She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. Proverbs 31:13-16 There are four key indicators in these verses that show her success as a resourceful and hardworking woman. 1. She is Willing: 'She works with willing hands' v.13 She makes the effort. She is not idle and doesn't shy away from difficult tasks, instead she is willing to pursue the hard work and effort in order to achieve. 2. She strives for exellence: 'She is like the ships of the merchant' v.14 She has an enterprising spirit and doesn't settle simply for ease and convenience, instead she goes the distance to achieve a task, even if it requires a difficult journey. She strives for excellence in all that she does, as she knows that all tasks, even the most trivial, are for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31) 3. She prioritises her day: 'She rises while it is yet night' v.15 The pursuit of excellence means setting the day up for success. Early morning is the most precious time to spend with God. She uses this time alone to converse with God, fill up on spiritual food, plan her day and prepare her family and household. 4. She sees growth: 'with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard' v.16 The fruit of her hands is the outcome of her labour. As she diligently strives to be her best self, so she reaps the rewards of her efforts. With the right attitude and action her resources grow and expand as a result. #proverbs31 #fruit #success #growth #excellence #wisdom #scripture https://www.instagram.com/p/CF34S_2pR4D/?igshid=i8znc7v0oa1v

[she-walks-in-grace]

The heart of her husband safely trusts her, so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life. Proverbs 31:11-12 There are some key statements in this verse that give clues to the foundations required in order to have a strong relationship. 'Her husband safely trusts her' Safely means that there is a safe space to be VULNERABLE, to share feelings and open up without judgement. This goes hand in hand with TRUST. Trust is built on integrity, being honest and knowing at all times you have each others back. 'He will have no lack of gain' He is not lacking so does not desire to chase after anything else because his needs are fulfilled. FULFILLMENT in a relationship requires understanding each others values and needs, ensuring adequate time is set aside to fulfill them. 'She does him good' Through NURTURING the bond between them by being supportive, caring and coming from a good place. This increases a happy and positive outlook on life. 'All the days' Not just some of the days but ALL the days. This takes COMMITMENT. It means we're in this together no matter what. During the highs and the lows, ebbs and flows, seasons and transitions, for all the days and more 🦋 #proverbs31 #wisdom #relationships #nurture #trust #integrity #vulnerability #commitment #love #scripture https://www.instagram.com/p/CFo0PTSpvfd/?igshid=8d8d1jetfrg8

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Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10 Firstly who is this virtuous woman? She is trustworthy v.11 She is loving v.12 She works diligently v.13 She is resourceful v.14 She is well prepared v.15 She is entrepreneurial v.16 She is strong v.17 She is financially astute v.18 She is skillful v.19 She is generous v.20 She is prepared v.21 She is elegant v.22 She is supportive v.23 She is productive v.24 She is brave v.25 She is wise v.26 She is vigilant v.27 She is well thought of v.28 & v.29 Above all, she fears the Lord v.30 Her value and success is rooted in Proverbs 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" And wisdom is more precious than rubies: Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yeilds better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 3:13-15 🦋 #proverbs #wisdom #rubies #virtuous #scripture #god https://www.instagram.com/p/CFjY-NlJKhn/?igshid=1vgiyakumh40u

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THE PROBLEM: There is a generation that curses its father and does not bless its mother. Pro 30:11 When we arrive into this world we are taught everything we know. Family is the school of life and wisdom is transferred from generation to generation. There are many scriptures underpinning the importance of listening to parents instruction, however as God's rules are replaced by man's rules both at home and at school, we are seeing an ingratitude and widespread disrespect towards parents and elders. There is a generation that is pure in its own eyes, yet is not washed from its filth. Pro 30:12 We are in a 'self' generation: self-love, self-care, self-preservation and self-righteousness. Many are looking within self for godly answers and have an appearance of spiritual godliness but deny the power of our true God. We are all sinners. Only Jesus can wash the filth of sin so we can stand free and enter the prescence of God. There is a generation—how haughty its eyes and pretentious its looks. Pro 30:13 In a #self and a #me society who needs God? According to evolution we come from nothing and go back to nothing. In evolution there are no rules, just survival of the fittest with the belief that man is far supriorior 'king of the jungle' and not answerable to any higher power, only to oneself. There is a generation whose teeth are swords, whose fangs are knives, devouring the oppressed from the land and the needy from among mankind. Pro 30:14 Clearly this is what we are seeing today on social media. Etiquette, morals and a healthy respect for each other has now turned into judgement, arrogence and insults hurled from the armchair keyboard warriors hiding behind their screens. SEE COMMENTS FOR THE SOLUTION 🦋⬇️ #proverbs #revelation #faith #respect #openthedoor https://www.instagram.com/p/CE8wuDdJsuU/?igshid=ulcfvr7mvq2m

[she-walks-in-grace]

The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected. Proverbs 29:25 As Christians we are taught to fear the Lord which means having a deep respect for His authority. It helps us stay on the narrow path abiding by His rules. He is our creator after all. He created the earth, moon, sky, stars, sun, flora and fauna, man and all the intricacies and rhythms of nature. He knows what is needed to run His world harmoniously and we are here to be His stewards and safeguard His creation. Therefore, He has created a set of rules to protect us just like a loving father would set firm rules to protect his children. And with this we need to abide by His rules, as we know on the day of our personal judgement He will hold us accountable for our actions. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his instructions have good insight. Psalm 111:10 However, if we place our fear in man we enter the snare (trap). Man has a desire for sovereignty, to control and dominate everything from birth to death. Success is everything to man. To fear man places the power of superiority and control in his hands, no longer does man live for God, instead man lives for himself. As we are seeing today, materialism has replaced morals and technology has replaced God. We now put our insecurities into buying stuff and our trust in tech. When digital meditation replaces communication with God, sleep devices replace our natural circadian rhythms, packaged processed food replaces natures perfectly packaged foods and pharmaceuticals replace natures medicine cabinet, who needs God? Instead we allow man’s power to rule over us. Artificial intelligence may be emerging as a new religion, but it can never replace Gods love. No tech, man-made control, devices or external sources can ever provide the internal security, grounding and protection that our creator has to offer. Because you have made the Lord—my refuge, the Most High—your dwelling place, no harm will come to you; no plague will come near your tent. For he will give his angels orders concerning you, to protect you in all your ways. Psalm 91:9-11 #proverbs #protection #wisdom #respect #psalm91 https://www.instagram.com/p/CEz19d9JO6_/?igshid=2w6hsd29wwv3

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When the righteous triumph, there is great elation. When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding. Proverbs 28:12 When wicked leaders rise to power, good people go into hiding. But when they fall from power the godly take their place. Proverbs 28:28 A prudent mans forsees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished. Proverbs 22:3 Why are all these good people hiding? Why are they not brave and strong standing up to wicked and evil. Does this mean God's people are weak? In Proverbs 26:4-5, God makes it clear: there is a time to answer a fool and a time to remain silent. There is a time to strike and a time to turn the other cheek. One way God judges the wicked is to withdraw His teachers of the Word of God. He hides his servants, just like he hid Joseph in prison before he came to the palace, David in the mountains before he was recognised as king, and Elijah in a secluded ravine. But here's the thing, God doesn't hide his servants because they are weak, he hides them for they are strong and He is preparing them for a greater purpose. And when God chooses to hide you for a time, He is preparing you for a greater purpose too. So whilst God's servants are hidden, He works in them, so that later and with greater power, He may work through them. Meanwhile, as we hide, the watchman proceeds ahead of the flock. He is on the lookout, alert and observing the situation to forwarn them of danger ahead. The watchman is usually well ahead of the flock, which may be a good thing as few really understand him. He sees what others do not see as the enemy may come disguised.. True watchmen operate under the guidence of the Holy Spirit which we know cannot always be understood. God has his way of doing things which aren't always our way and quite often does not make sense at all. But there is always a strategy to God's greater plan and a greater purpose to those who follow. Use your time of hiding wisely. #proverbs #wisdom #purpose #preparation #plan #pray #prepare https://www.instagram.com/p/CEVGlROp5vz/?igshid=o7lrd3stwsi1

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Dear Lord, In this unsettled time I thank you that I have you in my life, grounding and comforting me and bringing peace to my soul. I know your hand is on the shoulder of my children and those closest to me. They have a good heart. I recognise we all have a job to do and I know I can do my bit by supporting and nurturing those closest to me. In my heart I know what needs to be done and I take direction from you. Amen. "You shine a light, my daughter. Be that beacon of light for others. Guide the way. You're much stronger than you give yourself credit for. You know the job that needs to be done. Be the light." . So don't hide your light! Let it shine brightly before others, so that the commendable things you do will shine as light upon them, and then they will give their praise to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16 Jesus is the light of the world and it is through His light in us that we are called to shine before others 🦋 #proverbs #wisdom #bethelight #jesus #prayer #conversationswithgod https://www.instagram.com/p/CD8HsiCp5PK/?igshid=wzuh9szxwdql

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A wise, shrewd person discerns the danger ahead and prepares himself, but the naïve simpleton never looks ahead and suffers the consequences. Proverbs 27:12 [Shrewd] having or based on a clear understanding and good judgement of a situation, resulting in an advantage. [Discernment] the ability to make intelligent judgements by using observations with a heightened level of critical thinking. As believers we are to test worldly philosophies, foreign doctrines, new perspectives, statements made by politicians, priests, pastors, celebrities, leaders and any information that comes through our tv's, radio, laptops, phones and other media outlets. The bible warns that there are many false teachers in the world and its critically important that we discern both the source and content of information before we accept it: Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1 Truth only comes from the Holy Spirit. So how can we discern truth? 1) Firstly, spiritual transformation begins the day we give ourselves to Christ. As a believer we are inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how we think. The Spirit of God within us will reaveal and teach the truth that is from Him. 2) Secondly, question is this person coming from a place of love, compassion, humility? Do their words and actions demonstrate the Fruit of the Spirit. 3) Thirdly, are their actions and motives in accordance with scripture? How can we strengthen our level of discernment? 1) Ask the Lord. Pray for wisdom and discernment. 2) Be alert. Spend time with the Lord and study scripture to increase knowledge. 3) Tune into your inner witness. Learn to hear God's voice and check your spirit. Does it feel right or is there unease and uncertainty about the situation? My child, never drift off course from these two goals for your life: to walk in wisdom and to discover discernment. Proverbs 3:21 🦋 #proverbs #wisdom #beprepared #discernment #scripture #holyspirit #truth https://www.instagram.com/p/CDs5yMjpzlV/?igshid=16f71y2dk56d9

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Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit. Proverbs 26:4-5

There is a time to answer a fool and a time to remain silent. There is a time to stand up and a time to walk away. There is a time to strike and a time to turn the other cheek. All are correct depending on the situation. So how do we know the right approach when dealing with a fool?

Seek godly wisdom.

Ask the Lord for understanding, ask for His godly wisdom in making the right decision:

Wisdom is a gift from a generous God, and every word he speaks is full of revelation and becomes a fountain of understanding within you. For the Lord has a hidden storehouse of wisdom made accessible to his godly lovers. He becomes your personal bodyguard as you follow his ways, protecting and guarding you as you choose what is right. Then you will discover all that is just, proper, and fair, and be empowered to make the right decisions. Proverbs 2:6

As a Christian we are called to become Christ like and set an example to others. The more we learn and spend time in the Lord's prescence, the more we grow in His character, cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit (joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control and love) that Jesus served as the perfect example to others.

Just like fruit grows from a seed and develops into a mature plant, so our fruit of the spirit must grow and mature through the lessons we encounter in life..

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God conceals the revelation of His word in the hiding place of His glory. Proverbs 25:2

'Revelation of His word' refers to God's divine truth and knowledge, and 'His glory' means the perfection, beauty and greatness of all that He is.

God's words are active, living and breathing. Unlike any other book on this planet, the bible is supernaturally charged, sprinkled with revelation knowledge, the most valuable treasure one can posess. There are many deeper messages God has hidden beneath the surface of scripture through parables, mataphors, analogies and similtudes. Uncovering them is reserved for the dedicated followers, those who are prepared to study deep and search out His treasure trove of truth..

But the honor of kings is revealed by how they thouroughly search out the deeper meaning of all that God says. Proverbs 25:2

We are His kings.

It takes a dedicated king to search, for if the task was too easy we would never truly embrace, appreciate and value the love of His word. The kings who are prepared to search with all their heart will be rewarded.

“Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” Jeremiah 29:13-14 MSG

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Revelation-knowledge is a delicacy, sweet like flowing honey that melts in your mouth. Eat as much of it as you can, my friend! For then you will perceive what is true wisdom, your future will be bright, and this hope living within will never disappoint you. Proverbs 24:13-14

Dear Lord, Thank you for directing me to read and study Proverbs. I've learnt so much in such a short amount of time and that's just studying one verse out of every chapter and I'm not even finished yet! Your words have strengthened and grounded me. I remember a few years ago a friend told me that I've got scaffolding but no foundation to secure it. Your word has now given me the solid foundation to build strong scaffolding upon. In my weakness focusing on your word has made me stronger. Thank you for placing Proverbs wisdom in my heart. Studying these living God breathed words alone has changed me. I thank you for your wisdom, this sweet delicate honey that nourishes my soul. I know my future is bright. No one can take your words away or remove you from my heart. Amen 🦋

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As you listen to me, my beloved child, you will grow in wisdom and your heart will be drawn into understanding, which will empower you to make right decisions. Proverbs 23:19

The word ‘listen’ is referenced 331 times and ‘hear’ is referenced 347 times in the NIV. It's pretty important. And this isn't just a quick check in listen then forget and carry on with your day. To learn wisdom requires active listening and a conscious effort to hear, understand and remember what is being said. To grow in wisdom requires obedience. It requires spending time with the Lord and giving Him your undivided attention.

We make time for the friends we treasure and value, we listen to their stories and latest news whether its a walk, coffee catch up or dinner date, but are we making time for our closest friend of all?

But there is one loving friend who is joined to your heart closer than any other! Proverbs 18:24

Do you make time for your closest friend, your creator? God knows more about you and more about this world than anyone else. Isn't it important to put time aside to listen to your wise friend and Heavenly Father?

It's especially important in these uncertain times that we listen and take instruction from Him. He communicates His instruction through scripture, through the Holy Spirit, through people and events in our lives. It's imperative that we discern the voice of God, not the false teachers and influences of this world which can so easily lead us off track.

Growing in wisdom means setting time aside to be in His presence - read scripture, meditate on the words, take notes, research and ask questions, for what He shares with us will ensure we are guided on the right path.

God can deliver words of wisdom into our hearts, but it is up to us to take those words onboard and put them into action. You can't learn without first being an obedient student.. Jesus learned through obedience and so can we 🦋

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A prudent person with insight foresees danger coming and prepares himself for it. But the senseless rush blindly forward and suffer the consequences. Proverbs 22:3

A prudent person operates with situational awareness, they are careful to assess an ever changing personal environment, and use their discernment in making decisions.

A senseless person only sees the surface level, not recognising the warning signs until its too late..

How do we prepare?

Read the bible

Know the Word

Trust in the Holy Spirit

Put on God's armour

How do we discern?

We develop our relationship with the Holy Spirit and maintain our connection through prayer, ensuring we spend time in God's prescence so we may grow sensitive to the many ways the Holy Spirit communicates. This may be a strong inner knowing like a gut feeling, 'leadings' where you feel a strong prompt, 'quickenings' when a scripture jumps off the page or visions, dreams and prophecies.

When you receive the Holy Spirt, He will guide you to all truth. John 16:13 It's so important to fill your mind with the Word and ground yourself in scripture. The bible is loaded with spiritual truths and many of these provide answers to lifes problems we encounter.

The Holy Spirit is within us to guide us, lead us and teach us. When faced with an uncertain situation tap in and test your insights - Is it consistent with the bible? Is it consistent with how God has shaped me? Do I sense God's peace about this? Go into everything with your eyes and heart open.

Read your Bible - Know the Word - Trust in the Holy Spirit.

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Let God Direct your Stream It’s as easy for God to steer a king’s heart for his purposes as it is for him to direct the course of a stream. Proverbs 21:1 Just as the banks of a stream shift and change to direct the course of the water, so God can shift and change circumstances in our life to guide our heart towards Him. As believers, we are His kings: But you are God’s chosen treasure—priests who are kings, a spiritual “nation” set apart as God’s devoted ones. 1 Peter 2:9 God knows your potential, He has a specific plan and destiny for you. Just as a stream shifts and changes its course dependant on the land, so God can shift and change your thoughts, feelings and ideas to gently steer you in a particular direction. Therefore rest assured your spiritual father loves you immeasurably and wants to see you succeed. He will gently direct the course of your stream to whatever ends He chooses. Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Proverbs 3:5-6 #trust #daringfaith #proverbs #wisdom #plans #destiny #purpose https://www.instagram.com/p/CBowhAFp8rV/?igshid=13y1hwlyvxhnz

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Proverbs 20: Punishment

When you are punished severely, you learn your lesson well— for painful experiences do wonders to change your life. Proverbs 20:30

Recently I got rid of a debt that I've been dragging around like a ball and chain for the last 8 years. It was a debt that I walked into blindly. I really had no idea what type of loan I was signing off, or the stress and consequences that would occur. Having a loan weighted on my shoulders for years affected my mindset, emotions and self worth, yet the very things that caused me to get into debt such as self development programs promising an abundant life, were the ones that led me into a place of stress and having the burdon of debt control my lifestyle.

If you borrow money with interest, you’ll end up serving the interests of your creditors, for the rich rule over the poor. Proverbs 22:7

Scripture is clear: Don’t owe anything to anyone. Romans 13:8

This painful experience woke me up. Previously I was ignorant and blind to managing finances. I didn't understand the consequences of my actions and assumed "the universe" and "manifesting" would take care of me. Truth is, its been a big painful lesson, but one that I will embrace, as ultimately I would still be walking blind if I hadn't gone through this experience. My eyes are now wide open and I have a new level of discernment that encourages me to QUESTION EVERYTHING. God is my guide. I give Him ownership of my spending decisions. Each spending decision is now a spiritual decision. I trust in Him 🦋

If you listen obediently to the Voice of God, your God, and heartily obey all his commandments that I command you today, God, your God, will place you on high, high above all nations above the world. All these blessings will come down on you and spread out beyond you because you have responded to the Voice of God, your God. Deuteronomy 28:1-2