"She does him good and not evil all the days of her life" (Prov. 31:12).
The woman who has gained her husband’s trust does not abuse his confidence but continues to prove that his trust is well-placed. He trusts her because “she does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” In the same way, let all Christians elevate the name of Christ in this world by doing Him good, not harm, all their days. Let their daily frame be in subjection to Him and their daily concern be the executing of His interests. The noble wife is more concerned about her husband than she is about herself. Likewise, subjection and self-denial are marks of the bride of Christ. She is busy about her husband’s business and denies herself that He might be exalted before a corrupt generation.
Think of all the examples in Scripture of those who denied themselves that the honor of God might be lifted up. Noah faced the scorn of a wicked generation as he carried out God’s order to build the ark. Abraham placed his own son on the altar rather than disobey God’s commands. David suffered the persecution of Saul. The prophets faced the threats of a rebellious nation. Mary risked dishonor and loss of reputation. The disciples gave up everything, even their own lives, to follow Jesus. All these saints loved their Lord more than themselves. They sought to bring Him good, not harm, all their days. While none of them were perfect—many examples can be given of ways in which they brought shame upon the name of God—the intent of their hearts and the prevailing principle of their lives were to honor the Lord, to carry out His interests, and to sacrifice their comforts for Him.
Those who would emulate the saints of Scripture, as well as those saints throughout history who put the interests of Christ above their own, will find their relationship with Christ deepened. They will eagerly use their talents in wise and industrious ways, and one day they will receive the praise, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” They will use their time with expediency and live in a manner worthy of those who are called to be the bride of Christ. Like the wise virgins, their lamps will be filled when the bridegroom arrives, and they will go with Him to the wedding banquet where they will feast for an eternity.
If Christ were to return today, would He find you busy about His interests? Or would He find you entrenched in the things of this world, giving no thought to His ways or His purposes for your life? Before you begin the day, ask God to help you to know His will and to give you the grace to follow His will in everything that you do.
