Women of Influence are willing to Sacrifice
25 Feb 2009
She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household, and a portion for her maidservants. Proverbs 31:15 NKJV
The woman in today’s verse is committed to her family. She rises early, sacrificing her own rest to provide for others. Nowhere does it mention, she does this because of the appreciation she gets. No, she does this out of love. She is pleasing God through her constant care for her family’s needs and that’s all that matters.
She knows what each family member needs. If one of her children has dietary restrictions, she would prepare food appropriate for them. If another didn’t like spices, she would prepare a meal without spices. She provides meals for the entire household. Even the maid servants she treats as part of the family by providing portions for them.
She cares for each one in ways that matter to them.
Food takes time to prepare. Especially, in bible times where they did not have modern conveniences such as electric or gas stoves, microwave ovens, and in-door ovens, etc. Just imagine making bread from scratch. If you are not familiar with the process, check out this How to Make Bread article at http://www.instructables.com/id/How-To-Make-Bread-without-a-bread-machine/ for more details. First gather the ingredients, then mix them in a precise measure. Next knead the dough for 8 to 9 minutes until the texture is just right (whatever that means!). Then let it rise for an hour. (Time consuming!) Move dough to pans and let rise again. Bake, cool and eat. That’s a lot of time, just for a loaf of bread!
So remember, this woman did everything without the cool gadgets and fancy appliances we have today. In a sense maybe it makes it easier for us to become “gourmet” cooks. For those on the receiving end of the meals, remember someone prepared the meal especially for you. It took time, preparation and care. Don’t sneer because it looks funny. Taste it and compliment the cook, even if you don’t like it.
Lord thank you for giving us the energy we need to carry out your purposes. Help us to focus on you today. If that means cooking for someone, help us make a meal that not only satisfies the hunger but brings joy to the taste buds. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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©Elizabeth Marks has led small group Bible studies for almost a decade. Author of ThinkOnItBibleDevotions.com and BeingWomenOfInfluence.com websites she has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word.
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