What Mammaw Said - Actions Speak Louder Than Words (Part Trois)

What Mammaw Said - Actions Speak Louder Than Words (Part Trois)

BUT IT DIDN’T stop there. Mammaw’s legacy of living like the Proverbs 31 woman was also found in things like:

Certificates of deposit

She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. (v. 16, NASB)

Mammaw, being a banker, understood the importance of investing. Although she was never a wealthy woman, she was a good steward of her money—not only in her tithes and giving but in the manner in which she saved. It was my Mammaw who taught me the importance of taking an active role in the management of my personal finances and the power of compounding interest. Her actions spoke louder than words—don’t be a spendthrift; prepare to take care of yourself.

Physical fitness

She girds herself with strength, and makes her arms strong. (v. 17, NASB)

Mammaw was not a wimpy woman. Although she was small in frame and stature, she was strong. That woman could hoe a row, pick a bushel, and shell a quart of peas before I could get my garden shoes on. She was also a walker. Long before Jane Fonda hit the airwaves, Mammaw knew that being physically fit was good for the mind and soul. Her actions spoke louder than words—keep moving.

Presenting a consistent brand

She makes coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. (v. 22, NASB)

Mammaw wasn’t vain, but she always looked like a million dollars. When she took up sewing after retiring from the bank, we both benefited from her new hobby. Mammaw made sure we always looked nice (and she could control the length of my skirts!). Mammaw never dressed up to go to the grocery store, but let me tell you—she never dressed down, even to go to the garden. Mammaw was true to her brand as a Proverbs 31 woman and always looked like the godly woman she was. Her actions spoke louder than words—you’re God’s representative wherever you go; look the part.

Girlfriends, as you read Proverbs 31 think about how these characteristics apply to your life today. You’ll see you’re not so far off from the woman whose children will rise up and call her blessed.

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. . . . Her children stand and bless her. (Proverbs 31:25-26, 28)

Yes. I call her blessed.