Do Your Clothes Define You?

Proverbs 31:25
Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come

Living in the 21st century, we are often self-conscious about our image and our appearance. So much so that we allow our clothes to define who we are. If our clothes REALLY do define us, then perhaps we are all overdue for an extreme makeover. It starts by knowing what not to wear. Like the show on the TLC network, perhaps we should all throw out our existing clothing in favor of a finer wardrobe; one that our Creator provides to all believers... the clothing of STRENGTH, HONOR, and BEAUTY!

STRENGTH. We often think strength is found in a man or woman who always speaks their mind and never asks anyone for help. Or that strength is found in a man or woman who runs their household in fear that if left to their partner's care, everything would fall apart. Better yet, many believe strength is found in a corporate CEO who never had children in favor of their career. Rest assured physical, emotional, and mental strength all come in handy on many occasions. Real strength, however, is spiritual in nature. It can be worn in many different ways as faithfulness in prayer; holding steadfast to one's beliefs against the grain of the secular world; not giving into social pressure or secular standards; or standing up for what is right in the face of opposition. Spiritual strength is also worn by spending quality time "in the moment" with the ones you love. How many times have you heard a friend or co-worker complain that their partner spends so much time at work trying to provide for them that they have little to no time to spend with the family?  Even though their loved one works long hours to provide for them, they say they would rather have more alone time with them. God actually feels the same way about you. While the work you may be doing is for Him, He would much rather have you spend more quality time with Him reflecting on the moment so He can clothe you in all the virtues you need to be the person He designed you to be. When we wear clothing our Creator provides; ones that flatter our physical, mental, emotional, AND spiritual well being, everything in our life falls naturally into place. Or, at the very least, we are well dressed to handle our life when it doesn’t.

DIGNITY. As ambassadors of the Gospel, we wear clothing that advertises how we feel about God and our faith. Scrutinized by others for all that we do, we are asked to dress and behave with dignity and honor at all times. If for some reason our manners, dress, or speech are undignified, then it is God who is insulted. We are not meant to live life entirely for our own selves. rather, we are meant to live our life for Him. More importantly, we are asked to be aware of our behavior and wear openness, honesty, reliability, integrity, and trustworthiness in our relationships with others.

BEAUTY. The attire befitting our beauty is not the shallow variety driving much of our society today. Nor is it about spending huge amounts of time and money on cosmetic products to enhance the skin and designer clothing to accentuate the figure. In fact, having wrinkle-free skin and wearing fashionable clothes does not guarantee inner beauty of an individual! True beauty begins in the heart, and is a “gentle and quiet spirit”. As St. Peter so aptly phrased it:
“Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel ~  rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” (1 Peter 3:3-4).


Finally, the wardrobe the Proverb 31 individual wears is not available at your nearby marketplace or shopping mall. Rather, the wardrobe the Proverb 31 individual wears are garments of strength, dignity, and beauty the Lord provides the believing heart who is looking to Him.

When looking to Him wearing your finest attire, walk beside Him radiating strength. Speak to others in a voice of quiet confidence to communicate dignity. Most of all... rejoice in your future. It is bright, beautiful, eternal, and secure as your industry and planning have provided you with the finest.  Then savor your past with a smile!

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Work and Have a Home Life Too!

Proverbs 31:24
She makes fine linen garments,
sells them, and
supplies the merchants with sashes

As I mentioned in my last post, I had preconceived notions about Proverbs 31; specifically, that the verses were most likely written by male chauvinists whose fondest wishes were to confine women.  As I learned more about Proverbs 31 and about myself,  I was pleasantly surprised to experience first hand the true wisdom residing in these words. I was even more surprised to discover that these words were misrepresented by many over time - especially by clergy - by unenlightened theology.  Rather than holding individuals back, these words actually empower both men and woman to take on greater responsibility within the world; many of which can be tackled from home!

Take for instance, Proverbs 31:24. In the first line, the Proverbs 31 individual is industrious, "making fine linen garments" from home. Doing their best to serve the LORD, s/he not only creates textiles from the finest wool and flax, but s/he also creates fine garments from them for their family to wear.  Then in the second line, the resulting merchandise is so much in demand due to the quality of workmanship that s/he "sells them", leading others to purchase and wear them.  The third line and final line has the Proverbs 31 individual "supplying merchants with sashes" from home rather than from outside the home, freeing them to build and maintain a warm, nurturing home for their loved ones!  Independent by nature, I have to tell you that this arrangement sounds far more peaceful than the hectic pace many of us are experiencing nowadays. What's more, the income generated from a home-based business can be put towards not only improving the home, but quality of life too.

Like many of you, I realize the economy is in a shamble with many out of work or underemployed. Now more than ever, the need to work outside the home is a necessity, not a luxury. If like me, this is your reality, then pray and ask our Creator to show you how to use your talents to generate as much income as you are currently making outside the home -- or more -- at home. While not easy by any stretch of the imagination, anything is possible with the help of our Creator. All you have to do is ask.  In fact, some of the most successful businesses started from home and from a hobby or activity that an individual was good at and really enjoyed, but never realized was marketable. For example, I know of a man who sells custom-scented candles on the Internet. I also know of a very creative lady who designs and repackages fine chocolates for business events and special occasions. There are countless others who give clarinet lessons; grow organic vegetables; tutor high school students in English or Math; sell homemade cupcakes; make quilts; or perform custom sewing and alterations -- all from home.

On a more personal level... when my sister married her long-time love a few years back, her flowers were arranged and her cake was made by women who worked from home.  As for me... I have a home-based business promoting the community where I live along with areal businesses by developing a full array of marketing materials; everything from flyers, ads, and brochures to newsletters, booklets, and websites. Regardless of your talent or passion in life,  IT IS possible to create a marketable product or service from a hobby or talent. Once developed with your signature touch, that product or service can then be performed from home, sold from home, and delivered to others for purchase or to "merchants" for resale ... from home ... just as the Proverbs 31 woman did. The goal is not to leave home to work elsewhere, but rather live life as a Proverbs 31 individual would ... allowing work to come to you at home so as to create a much more peaceful, more balanced lifestyle.

Most of all... regardless of what you pursue... be sure to touch base with our LORD regularly about your plans. He knows better than we do about what is best for us. Also, be sure to take time to study Proverbs 31. These verses are filled with so many hidden treasures on how to live a richer, more fulfilling life with your loved ones.  Finally... when you need to find a way to bring more money home, remember to ask yourself, "Is this challenge requiring me to supply the merchants, or to be a merchant?"

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Submission... the ultimate in freedom

Proverbs 31:23
“Her husband is well known at the city gates,
where he sits with the other civic leaders..”

This verse is particularly interesting. At long last and seemingly out of nowhere, the 13th verse finally references the Proverbs 31 man. Yet only after 12 vivid descriptions and just before 8 more about the Proverbs 31 woman. While such placement would seem odd at first, it makes perfect sense upon closer reflection. For when we believe in and act upon the Proverbs 31 passage in faith, we are actually using our work, our time, along with our talents, resources, and words to raise others up. As we continue to do good for others, we soon discover we gladly do so out of love for our loved ones and for our Creator too. This verse is the essence of submission.

Oh how I hear all the loud voices as I write this. "What submission?" "In this day and age?" "Not me, not ever."In fact, just the sheer thought of submission has a way of sending a collective shiver up and down the spines of many. For in an age marked by feminism and personal freedom, many women would at least laugh at the word as though I were telling some kind of joke. Then there are those who find themselves on the other end of the spectrum; those who would not dare do anything without first consulting their husband for approval. Paralyzed by fear, they wouldn't dare do anything remotely considered unsubmissive. Admittedly, my partner would tell you I was once amongst the former crowd, laughing at the sheer prospect of submitting to anyone and totally embracing the mantra, "No one is the boss of me." That is until recently.

I now truly believe that submission falls somewhere in between the two extremes. Submission is not oppressive. What's more, submission is not about losing one's voice or one's personal freedom. Rather, at the heart of submission is an attitude of service to others. A self-less, disciplined act of total surrender, submission is not done out of fear, but rather out of unconditional love towards others. No longer focused on one's own needs and wants, submission is an act of unconditional love, making everything and everyone around better as a result of our presence. It is in this goodness, in serving the lead and needs of others before our own that we have an opportunity to touch and heal the lives of many, inspiring others with our words and creating an atmosphere where others have the freedom to do their very best. It is in glorifying others, in glorifying our Creator, that the same glory returns to us a thousand fold and in the most beautifully  unexpected ways.  In loving and surrendering totally to the need and lead of others, in focusing on others before our selves, true submission is not at all confining; rather, it is the ultimate in freedom.

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Dressing Our Home and Our Selves in God's Blessings

Proverbs 31:22
“She makes herself coverings of tapestries;
her clothing is silk and purple.”

The virtuous individual is diligent, enterprising, selfless, and practical; not only in serving the needs of family, but also in nurturing themselves and their appearance. Why? To ignore or neglect family and appearance, to look impoverished, shabby, or threadbare are not marks of spirituality. Rather, a modest level of material prosperity is in fact a sign that God's blessings have been bestowed upon His sons and daughters. Therefore, the appearance of our home, however modest, as well as our own appearance self are reflections of all those we honor and cherish: God, our spouse, and our loved ones. It is for this reason the virtuous individual strives to include both in their daily routine.

So how do we maintain a lovely home along with our appearance with limited resources? A virtuous individual maintains and prioritizes goals as well as uses their time wisely  so as to serve their family while being mindful of their own appearance. A creative individual, they create a warm, inviting home for their loved ones using elegant decorating ideas. They cover walls, furniture, and beds with hand embroidered items, colorful paints, exquisite stencils, well-made fabrics, hand-woven tapestries, and more to ensure every room, including the bedroom, is a sacred, inviting sanctuary worthy of the loved ones they cherish.

Further, the virtuous individual spends their resources wisely, choosing only the finest fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk and selecting only the most glorious colors to match their regal and godly character. Dressing well speaks a great deal about one's true character and dignity for the outward garments that are worn is a portrait of the beauty and splendor found within. Most of all... and this is something that is often ignored... the virtuous individual develops, rather than stifles, their sensuality to sustain a healthy self-image, a vibrant marriage, and a loving family life. For the sheer presence of a virtuous man or woman is not only pleasing to the eye and to all the senses, but also enriches the lives of many with their beautifully vibrant soul.  It all starts with creating a warm, inviting place and in nurturing ourselves so we can love and care for others.

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Dressing Loved Ones in Scarlet

Proverbs 31:21
"When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet."

This is such a simple yet beautiful verse depicting how the virtuous individual provides for their loved ones - both physically and spiritually - by anticipating their needs ahead of time.  By planning ahead with purpose and a firm goal in mind, the virtuous individual is prepared to protect the well-being of their loved ones from cold weather, financial hardships, or any other difficulties that may arise. It is for this reason that they do not fear for their household.

Further, regardless of season or circumstance, the virtuous individual does not fear, honor, or give reverence to any challenge. All are viewed as insignificant in light of their preparedness. In this particular verse, the virtuous individual plans for the physical warmth and comfort of their loved ones by dressing them in warm clothing of "scarlet." While the color scarlet of itself is not inherently warm, its use in this verse has significant meaning. In biblical times, scarlet clothing was often made of wool, thereby preserving warmth. What's more, the clothing's color provided desired ornamentation as the  scarlet color was considered royal or dignified.

The "Scarlet" color was "derived from a cochineal-like insect known as a Tola. When crushed, the Tola produced a fine deep red, or rich crimson dye, much admired by royalty and Asians alike. Upon closer examination, I  learned our Lord often compared himself to this cochineal-like insect or'worm'. For example, in Psalm 22:6, He shared, "Yet, I am a worm and not a man. I am scorned by humanity and despised by people." It is then that "clothed with scarlet" takes on its spiritual meaning. While Moses may have referred to scarlet wool as providing much physical warmth within the Old Testament, the  New Testament refers to the "scarlet clothing" of blood Jesus shed on our behalf to forgive and protect us from our sins.

Thus, regardless of challenge, be it physical or spiritual in nature, the virtuous individual is well-prepared to protect the well-being of their family. That through their faith and prayers, they do not fear for their household.  Dressed in the scarlet blood of Jesus, they are confident in their abilities to keep their loved ones safe, warm, AND loved. A colorful - and formidable - choice of clothing for all of us to wear indeed when presenting ourselves to the world, don't you think?

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Reaching Out with a Loving Hand and Compassionate Heart

Proverbs 31:20

She extends her hand to the poor,
And she stretches out her hands to the needy.

This verse is a wonderful example of parallelism. Often found in Hebrew poetry, parallelism refers to the presentation of two similar ideas; in this case, the second phrase basically saying the same thing as the first, with only minor variations: help the poor and needy. With "poor” and “needy” both meaning "afflicted or humbled, the terms often describe those who are physically and/or materially poor. Yet, the terms may also refer to believers who recognize their spiritual poverty. That is to say, they realize their spiritual growth is dependent on acknowledging their desperate need for that which only the Lord can supply. When He supplies us with whatever we lack, we are rich indeed.

During the days of His humiliation, our blessed Lord was also referred to as "poor": "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Cor. 8:9). It is for this reason, God asks us to reach out and help the poor and needy in the same way He has helped us. When we do, we honor Him in the same way He honors us.

With this in mind, the virtuous individual demonstrates compassion with concrete deeds toward the poor and needy. S/he loves the poor, not in word or in tongue only, but also in deed and in truth. But what really strikes me about this verse are the words, “she stretches out her hands to the needy." These words immediately conjure up an image of a mother reaching out to her children in time of need. it in fact reminds me of when my children were young. When either of them cried after being hurt or disappointed, my hand would automatically reach out to them without thinking.

Along with an image of a mother "stretching out her hands to the needy”,  I also envision a virtuous individual who wants to do more than just give of her time, resources, or money. With a mother's natural instinct, the Proverbs 31 individual wants to show true compassion, nurturing all those who are in need. When they do, they realize help comes in many forms; not just monetarily. In fact, s/he realizes that there are times when the right thing to do is to NOT give any money. For example, in the case of a man who deceptively begs for money for groceries, only to spend it on alcohol. Or, in the case of a woman who routinely goes around church to church looking for free meals and financial gifts. Supporting this kind of behavior does not teach long-term personal responsibility.

Using wisdom and discernment, the Proverbs 31 often nurtures using creative, and often alternative, means. While s/he realizes giving of resources is a valuable and much-needed thing to do, s/he is also mindful to give of their heart too. For example, if a person is truly hungry, and s/he believes it is proper to help, the Proverbs 31 individual invites him or her into their home. They sit with them; share a meal with them; include them in as part of your family; and most of all… ask them to stay long enough for some words of encouragement, whether from the Bible or another inspirational work. The end result? The Proverbs 31 individual not only fed their tummy, but their heart too.

Hebrews 13:2

Let us be mindful to be as charitable with our hearts as we are with our resources. And remember… "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

In closing, when extending a helping hand to others, ask God for guidance; specifically, wisdom and discernment in how best to meet the needs of those with whom He has placed in your life.

Luke 12:48

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa

Doing Work with Great Love

Proverbs 31:19
She layeth her hands to the spindle,
and her hands hold the distaff

The Proverbs 31 individual’s hands are rarely, if ever, idle. They use their time and hands wisely, faithfully, and skillfully to provide clothing, bed linens, and other necessities for family and others. In particular, this verse describes an ancient method of spinning fiber into thread. Prior to the advent of a spinning wheel, a spinster used a distaff (a staff) to hold flax, wool, or other fibers while a spindle spun fiber in a circular twisting and turning motion into thread.

An arduous undertaking, an individual who held a distaff and spindled fiber at the same time possessed great physical, spiritual, and mental strength. Further, they possessed much patience and endurance as it took much time to complete. An individual demonstrating these characteristics was considered a great blessing to all those in their life.

The New Testament describes such a woman. Her name was Tabitha - Aramaic for gazelle. Much like a gazelle, Tabitha was beautiful, nimble, and well known for her skilled artistry. Many smiled and felt relief in her presence; it was as though a heavy burden lifted. She was well loved, respected, and surrounded by those who clearly saw and felt the work and character of Christ within her.

In modern times, qualities such as strength, patience, and endurance as well as skills such as sewing, knitting, and quilting have become lost in favor of instant gratification and disposable wares. Yet there is so much value in creating something with your own hands; not just sentimental value, but financial value too as it costs far less to make your own clothing and quilts, for example, than to purchase them. What’s more, children can learn so much from watching their mother and father work, allowing many qualities and skills to pass onto future generations.

Whether at home or away, truly following the lead and needs of others does not occur overnight; nor does such service diminish over time. Rather, it takes time, commitment, and effort to develop the patience, strength, and endurance to serve God and others. When performed with great love, the effort of one’s service grows more beautiful as time passes. An effort that requires investment in our self and in the relationships we have with others and with God.

It starts by asking God to bless our hands, making them skillful and successful for Him. With His blessings, we are then capable of doing amazing things with our hands. Next, believing in His Word gives us the strength, patience, and endurance to commit to following the lead and needs of others. “Servant leadership” - and its many forms - is a beautiful tapestry created with threads of strength, patience, and endurance woven with God’s Word, unconditional love, and acceptance. Laying His hands wisely and faithfully onto a spindle while skillfully holding a distaff, it is with God’s refinement that we become a most treasured masterpiece. What's more, in being created in His image, we have been given hands in which to create the most beautiful masterpieces of our own. The blessedness of our hands and of our work comes from creating something with much love, just as our Heavenly Father did when He used His Hands in creating us.

Remember ... touch a life today "The Little Way" by following the lead and need of others. Also, if you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my community, knew...", then be sure to visit White Light Communications at http://www.tothewhitelight.com.
~ Theresa