Pastor Jon talked the importance of choosing wisely when it comes to the people you invite into your inner circle.
MY STORY
Apart from a family member, or anyone present in your community group, what person has had the most significant positive impact in your life? How are you different because of that person's influence?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.
(From Proverbs 31)
Women sometimes report mixed feelings on these verses in Proverbs because it seems like such an impossible standard for which women to hold themselves. What have been some of your more emotional responses to this passage?
What fictional character reminds you of the woman in Proverbs 31? What are some of the defining characteristics of this person?
Compare Proverbs 31:10 with Proverbs 2:1-5. Is it possible that the woman that the author is discussing is actually Wisdom personified? Why or why not?
What does God want us to hear? What are some of the more factual "takeaways" from this passage for you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
While this chapter focuses on the flourishing woman, what is the deeper spiritual truth that applies to everyone?
Think of people you know who already embody the characteristics described in Proverbs 31. How close are they to you? How can you draw more people like this into your inner circle of influence?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Identify two or three people who personify the Proverbs 31 woman's flourishing characteristics. Take the initiative to speak with these people this week; ask them their opinion about an issue with which you struggle.
Pick one the characteristics of the Proverbs 31 woman and write down some practical to put those traits into action this week.
If you are single, and you feel like God has given you the desire to be married, take some practical steps in that direction in the coming weeks.
One way to do this is to ask potential partners to give you his or her opinion about something. Then hold. If that person then asks you what you think, that's the first green flag. If that person treats your opinion with curiosity and respect, that's the second green flag. With those who are willing to reciprocate your genuine interest in this way, keep those conversations going, and see what happens. (By the way, this is also a good exercise for choosing friends).
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you to take in the coming week?
Message Notes
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