Ambidextrous

She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hand holds the spindle. Proverbs 31:19 NKJV

This verse requires some definitions prior to examination, doesn’t it? Distaff is a staff for holding flax or wool used for spinning. Flax is a plant containing fiber used for spinning into thread. A spindle is a round stick with tapered ends used to form and twist yarn in hand spinning.

In Proverbs 31 woman’s time there were no handy fabric stores with all the trimmings and trappings of a seamstress’ paradise. Oh no, they gathered raw material flax from plants or wool from the animals and spun them into thread or yarn. Can you imagine how long it would take to spin enough wool into yarn to knit a sweater?

This woman doesn’t shrink from work. Having an idea for how she plans to use the material, she keeps going. She has a purpose and nothing will stop her from completing it. Aside from that, this woman is an ambidextrous too. To operate the distaff and the spindle requires great dexterity. While holding a staff with wool in one hand, she holds and spins the spindle in the other to twist the wool into yarn. That sounds tricky, but she uses the talent God’s given her even though it might be difficult.

In our culture, we like the quick fix, don’t we. If it doesn’t please our instant gratification it doesn’t get done. But that saying: “good things come to those who wait”, is true. The Proverbs 31 woman knew it. Perseverance, commitment, follow-through, and hanging in there until the job is done are godly leadership qualities.

As we look at Proverbs 31 woman, you might be tempted to compare yourself to her. Don’t do it for that’s not the point. Comparison only leads to dissatisfaction and discontentment. Rather as we look back at this godly woman, let’s celebrate the wonder of a willing heart. Look at all God’s was able to do through this woman because she was yielded to God’s purpose in her life.

Lord, thank you for this godly example. Help us to yield our hearts to you. Work in us that which only you can do. Enable us to be godly examples for the next generation. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

© Elizabeth Marks, author of ThinkOnIt Devotions and has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word. For more devotions, bible studies and a recommended book store, visit http://www.ThinkOnItDevotions.com today.

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