"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies." The Hebrew word chayil, translated here "noble," or "virtuous" (KJV), means a wife of valor — a strong, capable woman with strong convictions. This description of the ideal wife does not agree with those who associate femininity with weakness and passivity.

"Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value." Her husband trusts her management of their resources. Her industriousness adds to the family income.

"She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life." This woman does not do right only when it is convenient and profitable. Her actions are not based on how she is treated by others or by what others think. Her character is steady. She is reliable and dependable.

"She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands." This woman enjoys working so much that she plans ahead for what she needs in order to accomplish her responsibilities.

"She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar." The trait not to settle for the mediocre is portrayed by a woman who goes the extra mile for quality items.

"She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls." Though the woman described here has servants to take care of many of the household duties, she sets the pace. She understands that good managers have a responsibility to take care of those under their authority. That is one of her top priorities.

"She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard." Every woman doesn’t have to go into real estate and horticulture — the principle here is that this woman uses her mind. She does not act on a whim, but logically analyzes a situation before making a decision. Her goals are not only short term — she envisions the long-range benefits of her decisions.

"She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks." We get a picture of a woman who vigorously goes about her duties. She keeps herself healthy and strong by proper health practices — good diet, adequate rest and exercise. Many people depend on her.

"She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night." She knows that her merchandise is good and takes pride in doing a good job. Night or day, no one worries that her responsibilities are not taken care of.

"In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers." The example she sets is one of skill and industriousness. Whether this woman would be a computer programmer, a concert pianist, a mother, or all three, she develops her talents and hones her skills through education and diligent application.

"She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy." Although it’s good to donate to needy causes, this means far more than writing a check. This woman shows personal concern. She visits the sick, comforts the lonely and depressed, and delivers food to those in need.

"When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet." Providing clothing for the family is one of her responsibilities. She takes this seriously, and plans ahead. She does not practice crisis management.

"She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple." This woman has high standards and dresses properly for the occasion.

"Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land." This man does not have to spend half his time trying to straighten out problems at home, and his success in the social world comes partly from her support, just as her success comes partly from his support. The original woman of Proverbs 31 couldn’t phone her husband for his opinion on matters. She made many of the day-to-day decisions about their property and goods. He trusted her to manage the estate efficiently.

"She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes." This woman runs a business from her home. Her efforts and industry add to the family income.

"Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come" (NKJV). Not only does this woman benefit each day from her wise and diligent actions, long-term lifetime benefits and rewards lie in store for her.

"She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." This woman is well read and has the facts. She knows what she is talking about. Whether about her job, her personal values or her opinion on world events, she is able to express herself intelligently, tactfully and diplomatically. People come to her for good advice.

"She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." She is an organized, energetic person who carries out her responsibilities.

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." This woman is not a doormat, slavishly trying to appease and please her family, no matter how unreasonable their demands. She is honored in her home. Here we gain an insight into the character of her husband as well. He teaches their children to respect here and the virtues she personifies.

"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." High praise for this extraordinary woman — a role model for women of all time.

"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." Here is the key to this woman’s effectiveness. Her priorities are determined by God’s will, not her own. She is concerned about what God thinks, rather than with what other people think. Physical beauty and clever conversation are admirable qualities. But if a woman’s beauty and charm are the extent of her virtues, what happens when time and the trials of life take their toll? This woman does not depend on beauty and charm for her success. She recognizes her need for God.

"Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." This woman is actively doing, not merely talking. She does not boast about her plans for the future or her successes of the past. They are obvious.

I would encourage you to read an article written about the Proverbs 31 lady meeting up with today’s woman, chatting over a cup of Starbuck’s Java. It truly will give you inspiration that says that you can be a Proverb’s 31 woman in today’s world!

Totally awesome!!

As my daughter and I pondered over Proverbs 31 today, I decided to have her come up with a list of adjectives about this woman (today’s English class, LOL). I decided to use a partial of the list to create barcodes as well as something special for Proverbs 31.

Hello world,

 I am back!!

Yes, I have return from a long taken sabitical from the blog world. I want to catch you up on what we have been doing lately.

Our house that we rented in Florida was sold as a ‘short sale’ because the owners was in a financial bind. We were forced to move…. once again. Wow, I can’t believe that every house we have lived in our the last almost five years have been sold leaving us to move again and again….

This time, my daughter and I have moved to Kansas City. We made the journey about two months. You see we went to the Open Door House of Prayer in Ft Pierce (closest to us in FL). I absolutely loved the place. Although very small, it carried a powerful punch in the Spirit with praise, worship and what they are doing with the children their. It is simply amazing! Well anyway, we moved to Kansas City where the International House of Prayer is located. Although we have been here only a short time, I absolutely love it here.

It is like starting all over again! We don’t know anyone. We have joined the Forerunner Classes that they offer for the kids. I sit in on the classes with my daughter, and I am amazed at what is being taught…. but more amazed that the children are drinking it up! The kids actually understand the things written in Revelation. They are truly raising up the next generation with boldness and Truth!

And the Prayer room, is totally awesome! We spend  a lot of time in their. There has been days that Tori has packed up her school work and went and sat at the tables in the PR and have gotten her work done with clarity in a few hours. Simply amazing we will learn upon the Holy spirit to teach…. LOL. The is no talking in the PR, so she had no other choice but to seek Him for help. What a great training ground to learn to walk in the Spirit.

I will write more later…. but thanks for stopping by and reading my update. Much hugs and kisses to you all for Christmas.

     I want to recommend this series of books…. My daughter absolutely LOVES whales, dolphins, etc…. She is asking the Lord about her becoming a Marine Biologist for Him. So when I came across this series posted throughout paperbackswap.com, I thought I would try at least one. When the book came in, it took for less than two days to consume it! She was so excited about the book…. that is, after reading it, I went online and order the first five in the series. Just yesterday, I ordered the remaining of the books on PBS to make sure we had them on hand when she is ready for them.

     My daughter is not a reader by heart. I have to "force" her to pick up a book. I guess I was that way when I was growing, just because I did not have much time since I lived on a farm. But, I love reading now and have ever since I began to homeschool her. So when this series came along and sparked an interest within, I captured the moment to put her into a book with out having to force her. I will say this, if the book is about whales or dolphins, she will pick it up and read it. But there aren’t many books that covers whales and dolphins for her age group. We do have an Animal Enclcopedia, that she has consumed. The three inch book is about ready to fall apart. I have caught her sleeping with this book… not because of some "issue" but because she feel asleep devouring the information of these animals. She also loves to draw them as well!!

     I wanted to share with you a wonderful series that the Lord brought my way over the summer!!

Dolphin Series written by Ben M. Baglio

This is a work of fiction. Great for ages 9-12.

     Dolphin Diaries takes place on a schooner, called the Dolphin Dreamer, in the ocean. The characters aboard are on a scientific expedition, though rather than learning anything new as the plot claims is their quest, the books repeat already largely known facts about dolphins. The idea behind the journey is to make stops at different ports where information on dolphins will be exchanged by the marine biologists and other scientists, establishing a "Dolphin Universe" in which dolphin-related information is exchanged freely. In this fanciful tale, all the characters have their own computers and the latest anything they need, from underwater speakers to tagging devices. They spend an ideal year travelling the world in their personal schooner in comfort and style, watching and interacting with dolphins. Dolphin Diaries features a crew of marine biologists and their assorted assistants.

1 : Into the Blue (2000)                             ISBN: 0439319471

Summary (From the publisher):

Jody can’t believe her dolphin voyage has begun. A whole world of discoveries awaits her aboard The Dolphin Dreamer.

But an unexpected passenger threatens to spoil the trip of a lifetime. And when a sudden storm threatens to put Jody’s life in danger, who can she turn to for help?

2 : Touching the Waves (2000)                 ISBN: 043931948X

Summary (From the publisher):

The McGraths are in Key West, Florida, visiting a very special dolphin center—with "dolphin teachers." Jody loves watching the dolphins at work.

But when one dolphin gets tangled in the netting, will Jody be able to free it?

3 : Riding the Storm (2000)                      ISBN: 0439319498

Summary (From the publisher):

The McGraths have arrived in the Bahamas. Jody can’t wait to see some Atlantic spotted dolphins and maybe find out if the rumors about a lost treasure ship are really true.

But will a major tropical storm put her plans on hold?

4 : Under the Stars (2000)                        ISBN: 0439319501

Summary (From the publisher):

Jody is at Dolphin Haven in the Bahamas, where dolphins Bella, Misty, and Evie are about to give birth. Everyone is excited—but also worried. In the past, Evie’s calves have died, and this may be her last chance to become a mother.

Will her calf survive?

5 : Chasing the Dream (2001)                  ISBN: 043931951X

Summary (From the publisher):

Jody has arrived in the Caribbean, and already she’s made a new dolphin friend, Frida. But other dolphins there have been captured and taken to live in dirty, unhealthy conditions—just to entertain tourists! Jody is outraged.

Can she help will freedom for these dolphins?

6 : Racing the Wind (2001)                       ISBN: 0439319528

Summary (From the publisher):

Jody has arrived in the South American rain forest, desperate to see some botos—amazing, bubble-gum-pink river dolphins. She has heard that when the river floods the forest, these magical creatures can be seen swimming between the trees.

But botos are rare and difficult to track down. Will Jody’s wish come true?

7 : Following the Rainbow (2001)             ISBN: 0439446147

Summary (From the publisher):

While visiting the Canary Islands, Jody is thrilled to see the largest dolphin species in the world! But all is not well in this island paradise. Jody discovers that the dolphins are at risk of being injured by speeding ferries that link the islands. Helping these dolphins might prove to be Jody’s biggest challenge yet!

8 : Dancing the Seas (2001)          ISBN: 0439446155

Summary (From the publisher):

In the Marquesas Islands in Polynesia, Jody is delighted to spot a large, mixed group of spotted and spinner dolphins—especially one she names Twister. There, she meets Lew and Monique, who work for a local dolphin-friendly tuna boat. Jody witnesses them in action as they save dolphins. But when something goes wrong with Monique’s breathing equipment at the last minute on a dive, will someone be able to save Twister from the boat’s nets?

9 : Leaving the Shallows (2003)                ISBN: 0439446163

Summary (From the publisher):

After weeks at sea, Jody and her family have arrived at Hervey Bay, off the coast of Australia. There, Jody befriends a gorgeous pink-and-white dolphin named Dawn. Jody notices a neighborhood tourist operation isn’t keeping the dolphins’ interest in mind and, as a result, Dawn becomes ill. Will Jody be able to convince them to change their ways before it’s too late?

10 : Beyond the Sunrise (2004)                 ISBN: 0439446171

Summary (From the publisher):

The McGraths have arrived in Sundarbans Delta, at the mouth of the great Ganges River. There, Jody hopes to see the rare and unusual Irrawaddy dolphins. Her wish comes true when at last she spots one, whom she names Sandhi. but her world is turned upside down when she learns there are poachers around, and Sandhi is missing. Does Sandhi have a secret hiding place, or has she been caught?

     A number of years ago, I had the privilege of teaching at a school of ministry. My students were hungry for God, and I was constantly searching for ways to challenge them to fall more in love with Jesus and to become voices for revival in the Church. I came across a quote attributed most often to Rev. Sam Pascoe. It is a short version of the history of Christianity, and it goes like this:

     Christianity started in Palestine as a fellowship; it moved to Greece and became a philosophy; it moved to Italy and became an institution; it moved to Europe and became a culture; it came to America and became an enterprise. Some of the students were only 18 or 19 years old–barely out of diapers–and I wanted them to understand and appreciate the import of the last line, so I clarified it by adding, "An enterprise. That’s a business." After a few moments Martha, the youngest student in the class, raised her hand. I could not imagine what her question might be. I thought the little vignette was self-explanatory, and that I had performed it brilliantly. Nevertheless, I acknowledged Martha’s raised hand, "Yes, Martha." She asked such a simple question, "A business? But isn’t it supposed to be a body?" I could not envision where this line of questioning was going, and the only response I could think of was, "Yes." She continued, "But when a body becomes a business, isn’t that a prostitute?"

     The room went dead silent. For several seconds no one moved or spoke. We were stunned, afraid to make a sound because the presence of God had flooded into the room, and we knew we were on holy ground. All I could think in those sacred moments was, "Wow, I wish I’d thought of that." I didn’t dare express that thought aloud. God had taken over the class.

     Martha’s question changed my life. For six months, I thought about her question at least once every day. "When a body becomes a business, isn’t that a prostitute?" There is only one answer to her question. The answer is "Yes." The American Church, tragically, is heavily populated by people who do not love God. How can we love Him? We don’t even know Him; and I mean really know Him.

     … I stand by my statement that most American Christians do not know God–much less love Him. The root of this condition originates in how we came to God. Most of us came to Him because of what we were told He would do for us. We were promised that He would bless us in life and take us to heaven after death. We married Him for His money, and we don’t care if He lives or dies as long as we can get His stuff. We have made the Kingdom of God into a business, merchandising His anointing. This should not be. We are commanded to love God, and are called to be the Bride of Christ—that’s pretty intimate stuff. We are supposed to be His lovers. How can we love someone we don’t even know? And even if we do know someone, is that a guarantee that we truly love them? Are we lovers or prostitutes?

     I was pondering Martha’s question again one day, and considered the question, "What’s the difference between a lover and a prostitute?" I realized that both do many of the same things, but a lover does what she does because she loves. A prostitute pretends to love, but only as long as you pay. Then I asked the question, "What would happen if God stopped paying me?"

     For the next several months, I allowed God to search me to uncover my motives for loving and serving Him. Was I really a true lover of God? What would happen if He stopped blessing me? What if He never did another thing for me? Would I still love Him? Please understand, I believe in the promises and blessings of God. The issue here is not whether God blesses His children; the issue is the condition of my heart. Why do I serve Him? Are His blessings in my life the gifts of a loving Father, or are they a wage that I have earned or a bribe/payment to love Him? Do I love God without any conditions? It took several months to work through these questions. Even now I wonder if my desire to love God is always matched by my attitude and behavior. I still catch myself being disappointed with God and angry that He has not met some perceived need in my life. I suspect this is something which is never fully resolved, but I want more than anything else to be a true lover of God.

     So what is it going to be? Which are we, lover or prostitute? There are no prostitutes in heaven, or in the Kingdom of God for that matter, but there are plenty of former prostitutes in both places. Take it from a recovering prostitute when I say there is no substitute or unconditional, intimate relationship with God. And I mean there is no palatable substitute available to us (take another look at Matthew 7:21-23 sometime). We must choose.