Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Proverbs 31:30
We have been talking about pursuing excellence in our relationships this week. Of all of the characteristics and qualities that help us have outstanding relationships, there is one that matters most: having a deep commitment toward God and a strong relationship with Him. You see, if we want to have strong relationships, we have to have God at the very core and center.
Proverbs 31, which is a chapter dedicated to the "wife of noble character," talks about the importance of putting Christ at the center of our relationships. In this chapter, the writer of this Proverb explains that the wife of noble character, and any person of character, really works hard, is trustworthy, cares about others, and more. Concluding his statement about this woman, he says, "Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised" (verse 30). In other words, more than anything else, this person of character has a deep relationship and deep commitment to Christ. This devotion is far greater than outward appearances, whit, or anything else. For every one of us, whether we are single or married, we are all called to live lives fully devoted to Christ. The incredible thing is, when we live with this kind of devotion, our relationships will be strengthened.
It may be that you commit to going to church regularly or that you read the whole Bible in one year. Perhaps you want to grow in your prayer life. Maybe something else comes to mind as you think about how you want to grow in your relationship with Christ. How do you want to pursue a deep relationship with Christ?
Our question today is, is anything holding us back from growing in our relationship with Christ? Are we willing to let go of that if anything is holding us back? I can assure you one thing: you will never regret anything that you let go of to pursue a deeper relationship with Christ.
My friend, there is nothing greater with our lives that we can do than pursue a thriving and deep relationship with Christ. Take some time today to get away from all the distractions in your life, even if for just five minutes, to have an honest conversation with God, to hear from Him, and to listen to Him. May we all seek to make our relationship with Christ a priority in our lives.
Proverbs 31:25-31 (NLT)
She is clothed with strength and dignity,
and she laughs without fear of the future.
When she speaks, her words are wise,
and she gives instructions with kindness.
She carefully watches everything in her household
and suffers nothing from laziness.
Her children stand and bless her.
Her husband praises her:
“There are many virtuous and capable women in the world,
but you surpass them all!”
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
Reward her for all she has done.
Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
©2024 Sagebrush Church
