Work Hard

She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. . . . She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes.

Proverbs 31:17, 20-21

Proverbs 31 is known for its verses about a wife of good character. Although it’s a long time until you’ll be an adult, the characteristics of the Proverbs 31 woman are ones you can start developing now. Today’s verse says a good woman is “energetic and strong” and “a hard worker.” She’s prepared for what’s ahead. The wife of good character isn’t a dreary housewife overwhelmed by all she has to do. She is an energetic woman with many talents and positive characteristics. These are characteristics God wants you to develop in your life as his princess.

Think about your own life. There are things you have to do each day. You have schoolwork to do. Do you tackle your homework with energy? Not only that, but do you go beyond that and make sure you’re prepared for the next school day by reviewing your work to make sure you understand it and look ahead to what you’ll be discussing? Do you take time to make sure you have your books and supplies ready?

Besides your schoolwork, you’re probably expected to help at home by making your own bed and taking your dirty clothes to the washing machine or a hamper. You may be assigned to set the table, feed the dog, or empty the trash, too. How do you do those jobs? Do you do them to the best of your ability with energy and cheerfulness? Do you give a little extra and help your brother or sister complete his or her job, or do you complete a job that’s not assigned to you just because it needs to be done? That’s the princess way.

What you do today will determine what kind of woman you’ll be in the future. If you’re energetic and cheerful in your work and prepared for what’s ahead, you’ll be looking at a brighter tomorrow.

Is there too much homework this week? Do your jobs at home seem boring? Make a point to complete all your work on time and cheerfully this week. Go a step further and do an extra job to help out.