02.21.07
Week Two
I’m excited about this chapter as it gets really practical in dealing with how we can live as a virtuous women each day. It’s also inspiring, while being convicting – enjoy!
1. Read Chapter Two, “A Sparkling Jewel – Her Value”. How did this chapter encourage you? How did it challenge you? Was there a new idea or an area of your life that you need to work on shown to you?
2. Think about a piece of jewelry that is special to you. What about it makes it precious? What gives it significance to you?
3. What are some ways that you can grow in being the “jewel” in your home, whether it be as a wife or as a single person living at home or with roomates? Think of some practical ideas for brightening the lives of those around you and list them here. What are some things that other women in your life have done that have helped to brighten your life?
4. What are some of the practical areas mentioned in this chapter that you find needing work in your life? Is there an area that God has given you grace to grow in already? Are there any tips or tricks you have learned that you can share?
5. This chapter talks about being the jewel in your home, even through dark and trying times. What are some verses that come to mind that we can keep in mind as those trying times come? How can we keep our clarity and brightness?
6. Look up the following passages and list the characteristics encouraged in each verse. What are some specific things that you can do today and this week to make these qualities a part of your life?
Proverbs 14:30, Proverbs 19:2b, Proverbs 19:11, Proverbs 25:28
Charissa said,
February 25, 2007 at 12:55 am
Hi, sorry I didn’t get last weeks posted! It was encouraging to read everyones thoughts! I’m so glad to be doing this study with you all!
1. Read Chapter Two, “A Sparkling Jewel – Her Value”. How did this chapter encourage you? How did it challenge you? Was there a new idea or an area of your life that you need to work on shown to you?
This chapter caused me to expand my thinking on qualities that are beautiful, such as being someone who brings the color and joy to a home. I think I can grow in all the areas!! But I guess the one that stands out to me is the money managment. I really dislike having to handle it. I don’t understand complex financial issues very well. BUt I’m realizing that I can’t just expect my husband to deal with it all and I don’t have to pay any attention to it.
2. Think about a piece of jewelry that is special to you. What about it makes it precious? What gives it significance to you?
my wedding/engagement ring would be most precious to me because I know that Shawn put a lot of time and thinking into picking it out. It wouldn’t be as special if I knew he didn’t pick it out.
3. What are some ways that you can grow in being the “jewel” in your home, whether it be as a wife or as a single person living at home or with roomates? Think of some practical ideas for brightening the lives of those around you and list them here. What are some things that other women in your life have done that have helped to brighten your life?
I would like to grow in emotional stability or master my tolerance. TO not get worked up about things just because someone else does, or to remain calm and gentle even when people are doing things I don’t like, or life is happening in a way I don’t like. I can see now how being stable would be a real treasure, but also only something I will be able to do with God’s help.
sending cards or little notes to others, helping others out when they need it, and always having a pleasant word to say to others or showing real concern for someone – these are ways I have been encouraged by others, and would like to do the same
4. What are some of the practical areas mentioned in this chapter that you find needing work in your life? Is there an area that God has given you grace to grow in already? Are there any tips or tricks you have learned that you can share?
I need to work on helping with money management. I do know that they have websights that help a person set up budgets
5. This chapter talks about being the jewel in your home, even through dark and trying times. What are some verses that come to mind that we can keep in mind as those trying times come? How can we keep our clarity and brightness?
1 Peter 3:3-6. I think of these verses because it points out how a quiet and gentle spirit is what God considers beautiful in a woman, and this can be very hard, especially in hard times. my commentary says that gentle here means meek or humble, and quiet describes her action and reaction to her husband and to life in general. I think trusting God, obeying him, keeping him first,even when it doesn’t make sense will help us remain focused on the good, and enable us to think clearly, and be able to still encourage others.
6. Look up the following passages and list the characteristics encouraged in each verse. What are some specific things that you can do today and this week to make these qualities a part of your life?
a sound heart, level headed, discretion/slow to anger, to overlook a transgression,to have rule over our spirits.
I would like to memorize 1Pet. 3:3-6, and meditate on it every day this week, along with meditating on the qualities found in the verses given to us to look up. When I have things like ths running through my head more often, I know I’m more likely to do them.
Tanya said,
February 26, 2007 at 4:06 pm
Thanks for posting, Charissa! Glad to have you join us… I’m excited about this study, too, and have really appreciated the postings thus far…
I can totally relate to you in growing in tolerance and in having a meek and quiet spirit – at all times, even when things aren’t going my way or when people are doing things differently than I think they should… This is something that needs a lot of work in my life. I find that a lot of times, even if I am quiet about things, I have to questions whether I am being MEEKLY quiet about things. And to remember in this day and age, when it is considered a terrible thing to be “used”, that GOD finds it precious when I am quiet and meek in the face of “abuse” from others, when I don’t try to stick up for myself and get what is “due me”. I also think about these verses in that it talks about a meek and quiet SPIRIT”. That means that I am characterized by those two things… You’re right – there’s NO way for that to happen without being in the Word constantly and relying on God continuously.
I’ll be praying for you!
Tanya said,
February 27, 2007 at 4:11 am
1. Read Chapter Two, “A Sparkling Jewel – Her Value”. How did this chapter encourage you? How did it challenge you? Was there a new idea or an area of your life that you need to work on shown to you?
Wow, where do I start? I was challenged in so many ways… The picture of being a sparkling jewel in the lives of those around me gave me a lot to think about. I have heard it said before that the woman is the one who sets the tone in this home, which is very convicting. I liked how Elizabeth broke down HOW we can be jewel-like. There are the practical ways on life management, yes, BUT those ways must be done with the right attitude and in the right manner. I can be the best time manager anyone might know BUT am a time manager with a quiet and gentle spirit? Am I a kind time manager who always speaks with wisdom in sweetness? Am I a time manager who is quiet and calm, like the regularity of the ocean’s surf, in the face of difficult or painful circumstances? And I peaceful when my lovely schedule is upset? When things don’t go my way? It really stood out to me how important it is that I go about learning practical skills with the right perspective.
Something else that stood out to me is that the woman of Proverbs 31 NURTURES a peaceful heart. She works to cultivate it. It’s not something that is just expected to happen but having a peaceful heart is something to be worked toward.
The encouragement – again, God does not require anything more of me than He has enabled me to do (1 Cor. 10:13)! He has given me everything that I need pertaining to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3) – and He promises to work His perfect work in me, as His child, according to His power (Eph. 1:19, Phil 2:13)! Anything good that I may accomplish in becoming more like the virtuous woman will be by His grace alone – and for His glory alone. And with this in mind, I can know that as I strive to be more like the virtuous woman, I don’t strive in vain! “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Eph. 3:20,21)
2. Think about a piece of jewelry that is special to you. What about it makes it precious? What gives it significance to you?
3. What are some ways that you can grow in being the “jewel” in your home, whether it be as a wife or as a single person living at home or with roommates? Think of some practical ideas for brightening the lives of those around you and list them here. What are some things that other women in your life have done that have helped to brighten your life?
I would encourage all of us, married and single, to start TODAY at being a jewel in the lives of those around us. Those who are single, and perhaps wanting to be married someday, once you get married, it’s not as if being that jewel of a person becomes natural or easy as soon as you say “I do”. And I speak from experience! Start today to make these jewel-like characteristics a part of your life. #1) because you know that they are pleasing to God, whether He has marriage in your future or not #2) if you should one day be married, those jewel-like qualities we are seeking to develop WILL be tested, so put them into good practice now so they’re used to being tried by then! There is so much pain and hurting in those in each of our lives – let’s start looking out for the interests of others (Phil. 2:3,4) by putting aside our own feelings and trying to make someone else’s load lighter!
I like Charissa’s idea of sending notes – I have really been encouraged by those that I have received. Even ecards are fun to get. I also thought of asking to go for coffee or spend time with someone. As Elizabeth pointed out in the chapter, time is a most precious commodity, so purposefully using it to spend time with someone else is a great way to show them they’re cared for. Knowing that someone might be having a difficult day coming up and giving them a call or letting them know that you’re thinking and praying for them; helping in some way – making a meal, etc. Making my husband’s favorite dessert as a surprise.
4. What are some of the practical areas mentioned in this chapter that you find needing work in your life? Is there an area that God has given you grace to grow in already? Are there any tips or tricks you have learned that you can share?
For me, growing in tolerance and mastering my temper and speech stand out to me. In most situations, these three problem areas tend to be tied together, and for me, the root of them is my pride. I am being intolerant because something is affecting me in some way that I don’t like. So my temper flares and I end up saying things that I should not say.
I have grown a lot over the years in keeping a schedule. I am always looking for ways to get the most amount done in the shortest amount of time. Sometimes this complicates things, as many of those who know me can attest to. But as I am learning to smooth out the bumps, this way of thinking has helped me find more time in my days. A tip – write it down! I keep my little day calendar close at hand all the time. When I think of something I need to do on a particular day, I write it down. If I know something is coming up that will need preparation in advance, I write on those days each task that will lead to the final one being accomplished. And I try to take advantage of the little bits of time throughout the day – to clean the bathroom, gather all the trash in my car into one place to be thrown away at the next stop, start a shopping list, write a note, etc.
5. This chapter talks about being the jewel in your home, even through dark and trying times. What are some verses that come to mind that we can keep in mind as those trying times come? How can we keep our clarity and brightness?
Romans 8:28 – God CAUSES all things to work together for good. They don’t just happen to work together for good. Our heavenly Father works them together for good.
Jer 29:11, 12 – God’s plans for us are good. He’s directing our steps as we follow after Him (Prov. 3:6)
He has a specific purpose for the trials in our lives – to grow us into the image of His Son! Trials and tribulations don’t just happen – He brings them into our lives to work His perfect work in us (James 2:2-12).
He’s in control!
6. Look up the following passages and list the characteristics encouraged in each verse. What are some specific things that you can do today and this week to make these qualities a part of your life?
Proverbs 14:30 – a sound heart, free of envy; Proverbs 19:2b – not being hasty, Proverbs 19:11 – slow to anger, able to overlook transgressions, Proverbs 25:28 – being able to rule over own spirit
Spend more time in prayer – I see how much I need to be relying on God’s strength and not my own to overcome these struggles. Meditate more on the cross and Christ’s sacrifice for me so that I am able to forgive those around me. Memorize these Scriptures.
Sammi said,
February 27, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Good morning ladies!
I come to you today with a heavy heart. My pain from both the M.S and arthritis are the most intense I have experienced yet. The Lord has been merciful in relieving my pain to some extent, but I have not been able to focus my eyes to read the whole chapter due to the headaches. I ask for your prayers for the Lord’s will in my ability to continue this study. I will not get this week posted, but as the Lord wills maybe I will be able to read and post next week. Thus far this has been such a blessing to be able to join in and participate in this study and I am thankful for that. Thank you. ~sammi
Vanessa said,
February 28, 2007 at 4:56 am
1. Read Chapter Two, “A Sparkling Jewel – Her Value”. How did this chapter encourage you? How did it challenge you? Was there a new idea or an area of your life that you need to work on shown to you?
Wow, what a packed chapter, filled with so much to think about. I love that the virtuous woman is a jewel to her household and husband-it is such an exciting job and task we have, while being a great challenge as well. I was challenged so much by this chapter, mostly by the great time and work that needs to go into developing these skills. Sometimes i wish i could snap my fingers and become a virtuous woman. But i know that I’m not perfect and need to be molded and have the rough edges cut off-and that takes time. I think i could definitely improve in all the areas-the biggest one would probably be my tongue.
2. Think about a piece of jewelry that is special to you. What about it makes it precious? What gives it significance to you?
My great-grandmother gave me her wedding band and ring when i was about 10. It is so beautiful and elegant and small(she had small fingers-it barely fits on my pinky). I can’t understand why she gave that beautiful gift to a very silly young girl, but she entrusted it to me and I am so thankful for it.
3. What are some ways that you can grow in being the “jewel” in your home, whether it be as a wife or as a single person living at home or with roomates? Think of some practical ideas for brightening the lives of those around you and list them here. What are some things that other women in your life have done that have helped to brighten your life?
I have been challenged lately to think of creative ways to serve those around me. I need to work on my emotional stability and also in encouraging others in hard situations, showing genuine care for them and going out of my way to encourage them. I need to put genuine time and effort into this as well.
4. What are some of the practical areas mentioned in this chapter that you find needing work in your life? Is there an area that God has given you grace to grow in already? Are there any tips or tricks you have learned that you can share?
I think I have a long way to go in every area mentioned in this chapter. Yet God has given me grace and grown me in emotional stability-a really hard one for me. For me-I find myself more prone to emotions right before my period. One thing i was encouraged to do is have reminders of scripture to keep me focused. So often, when i know a time is coming up which will be especially emotional-i write notes to myself in my planner of scripture and little notes of *Meditate on this*. It has helped so much to keep the right perspective when my emotions are getting the best of me.
5. This chapter talks about being the jewel in your home, even through dark and trying times. What are some verses that come to mind that we can keep in mind as those trying times come? How can we keep our clarity and brightness?
Psalm 73:25-26-these verses are a great reminder of the weakness of our hearts and the strength we find in God
Psalm 139-this psalm talks about God’s intimate knowledge and planning of all things-He has hedged us behind and before-it is such a comfort to know that in every situation He is behind and before us and has already taken care of us in His plan
6. Look up the following passages and list the characteristics encouraged in each verse. What are some specific things that you can do today and this week to make these qualities a part of your life?
Proverbs 14:30-a sound heart. I can rejoice in all circumstances, be joyful for others and thankful for the blessings God has given, trusting in His faithfulness and waiting on Him and knowing that I am where He wants me
Proverbs 19:2b-slow down. speak with wisdom and think out my words before i speak, be kind and thoughtful and purposeful
Proverbs 19:11-forgiveness and discretion-i can work more to be peaceful and non-argumentative, restraining my words, and being gracious to others-motivated by His graciousness
Proverbs 25:28-ruling over my spirit-practice self-control and constantly praying and submitting my will to God, being in His word and disciplining myself to do these things
bygrace402 said,
March 2, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Tanya and all you ladies,
Thanks so much for your transparency. Though I am not able to take part in the study right now, I am being encouraged and exhorted by your transparency. Thank you!
Tanya, I am relating with you right now about having pain and hurt…everyone has it. That’s a fact of life. I’ve had a hard week and have been battling these feelings. Today I will resolve not only to take my thoughts captive but to also consider the interest of others as more important than myself. Thanks for helping me out on this;*)
Christie
Tanya said,
March 2, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Vanessa,
Thanks for your post! It’s really encouraging to me that you are so honest and open about your struggles. It’s so great to know that, as sisters in Christ with the same purpose in life, we can be transparent with one another, as Christie said. And then we can be better praying for each other. There is so much against us, as believers, in this world (thankfully, He who is in us is greater!), and I have been convicted lately by how important it is that we be in each other lives to encourage each other. I thought that how you pointed out that our motivation for being gracious to others (Prov 19:11) should be motivated by HIS graciousness… What an awesome example we have in Him in everything!
Christie,
Thanks for stopping by! I’ll definitely be praying for you…