Today: A look at a woman of noble character, and All Hallows Eve (Halloween).

10 A wife [woman] of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.

When addressing this passage, we must remember that in Solomon’s and King Lemuel’s society, the chief purpose of women was to marry, bear children, and take care of the household. While these tasks are still true today, our society is more open to single women who contribute in other ways. So, we will address the woman of noble character.

What attributes are listed?
v.12 She works to add to her home and to society.
v.13-14 She is enterprising.
v.15 She provides for her household (probably a good cook!). NOTE: Robin likes this particular verse; she says that a person who has servants can actually DO ALL that is listed in this chapter! I think she does.
v.16-19 More enterprise.
v.20 She is generous.
v.21 She prepares for the future, especially for difficult days.
v.22 She keeps herself only for her husband or husband-to-be (it is Christ who is her Bridegroom).
v.22b She keeps herself looking nice.
v.23 She gives good advice to her husband, boss, co-worker, etc.
v.24 More enterprise.
v.25 She has godly character and confidence.
v.26 She teaches younger women how to be godly.
v.27 She is vigilant concerning her household.

Actually, we men would do well to be just like her!

All Hallows Eve

Otherwise known as Halloween, this day is the eve of All Saints Day, which began as a type of Memorial Day for saints who have gone on to heaven. Though there are many saints who are well-known for their faith and sacrifice to the Gospel of Christ, the day serves to remember all Christians who have gone on to glory.

Through time and the mixing of Celtic mythology, the eve of All Saints Day took on a dark side as it morphed into these myths:

1. The souls of the departed wander the earth that night.
2. Demons had free reign for a limited time.
3. Jack-o-lanterns were carved to ward off evil spirits.
4. Dressing up in disguises kept dead souls from recognizing a person.
5. Trick-or-treating is really a type of extortion: “If you don’t give me candy, I will deface your property.” Interesting, no? The giving of treats was originally about celebrating All Saints Day. Talk about a departure…

I’m not necessarily discouraging Trick-or-treating; I am just encouraging Christians to know what they are celebrating and why. Tomorrow, we will look at some saints worth remembering. For today, let’s pray for His Kingdom to come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Abba, may You make us wise as serpents, but as innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). Give us discernment concerning tonight and tomorrow. May You be honored and magnified in all things, especially in my life. Amen.