"She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard." Prov 31:16

As I reflect on this verse, a few virtues stick out to me. First, the P31 woman uses her wisdom when considering a purchase. She does not impulsively see a field for a "great deal" and rush out to make a down payment. No, rather she thinks about it. My guess is that she first checks in with God in prayer to seek his answer on whether this is something beneficial for her family. I assume she also researches some facts about the land she was considering. She may even pros and cons for the purchase. We don't know how she considers her purchases, but we do know that she uses her wisdom before making a decision, and this is where we might learn from this woman. Impulsive decisions have been a lifelong struggle for me. Advertisers created those "SALE" signs for people like me. Yet, in meditating on this verse, I feel convicted to take time before buying things just because they are a "steal." If I want to live a Proverbs 31 life, I must consider my purchases using God's wisdom rather than Earthly thinking.

Next, the woman uses her money wisely. She takes the money she has earned and plants a vineyard. She multiplies the gift she has been given. This reminds me of the parable Jesus used to teach about using our gifts with diligence and wisdom. (Matt 25:14-30) Whether it be talents, time, or tangible gifts, we honor God by using our gifts in a wisely. If our gifts can be multiplied to serve God and to bless others (including our families), we should take action to do so.

Today, I am meditating on my gifts and how I can use them to further God's kingdom. Wont you join me?