"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness." Proverbs 31:27
The Proverbs 31 description of the virtuous woman includes many and varied pursuits. Collectively, all these pursuits are summed up by this observation: She faithfully looks well to the needs of her household. This is a statement of focus and endurance. Truly, this is the challenge for all Christians. The beginning point of many endeavors is Godly and virtuous. But at some point, either the enthusiasm for the task wanes and focus is lost or the pursuit itself becomes less about Godliness and more about our personal aims. But here, the virtuous woman is praised because she maintained focus on the right objectives. She did well. There is really no greater compliment than that simple observation. In Matthew 6, Jesus supplies the test by which we can measure our focus: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” As we honestly acknowledge the treasure of our heart, we can then honestly determine whether our focus is right or is veering off course.