Midweek Message from the Archive
Proverbs 31: Part Four
As we move on to Pv. 31:19-21 we approach two Hebrew words that our English Bibles translate as one word: hand. Whether it’s for our family, neighbors, friends, or church, our hands are gifted to us by God as an extension of His hands. Scripture shows us that ‘hands’ can also mean power; it’s the position of ruling or governing (Dan. 2:38) and Ishah Chayil, this powerful woman of God has learned to rule her home well (vs. 19) and uses her power to do good.
The second word for ‘hand’ begins verse 20 and it’s literally the palm or hollow of the hand. This word points us to quantity or location: do we have open hands or closed fists to reach out to others in generosity, encouragement, and prayer as His image-bearers?
God told Moses:
As My glorious presence passes by, I will hide you in the crevice of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by. Exodus 33:22
Jesus spoke of His sheep:
… for My Father has given them to Me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. John 10:29
Did you get that? Your heavenly Father’s hand holds you and no force from hell can move Him or move you out of His control. The power of God that a believer possesses comes directly from the Holy Spirit and it’s victorious, conquering, and overcoming.
Paul instructs us:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Ephesians 6:10
That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.
Colossians 1:29
His empowerment is for any situation that you may find yourself; you hit it ‘head on’ because Ishah Chayil knows where her strength comes from.
Lastly, the Hebrew word that begins verse 21 is a negative, no, and it’s object is fear. Believers are to walk in victory because they depend on the Lord, not looking at their outward circumstances, and know by experience that His love will never let them down: that’s blessed assurance. No fear. Ishah Chayil is prepared in advance for anything that comes her way; she has spent time in the presence of the Lord and He has downloaded power into her to be a force for good in this world.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with My victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10
The power of Jesus Christ in us and we don’t walk in fear, not from Satan, not from the world, and not from any circumstances.
Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love. 1 John 4:18
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