What Does Last

Read Proverbs 31

Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised.

Proverbs 31:30

The last day of the year marks a turning point in time. It counts down earthly life. It reminds us, like a birthday, that we have accumulated another year of experiences and memories in exchange for 365 precious days that cannot be retrieved. We often use the last day of the year for reflection, resolutions, and reaffirmation of our purposes in life.

The book of Proverbs ends the same way the king ended Ecclesiastes. Solomon’s closing thoughts in that book were, “Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). The woman in today’s proverb represents everyone. Like her, we are challenged to fear the Lord.

The fear of the Lord begins and ends the book of Proverbs. It is that state of humble awe in which we remind ourselves every day of God’s greatness, grace, and holiness. It is that state of mind in which we passionately pursue wisdom. The outcome will be God’s praise.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Character will outimpress beauty.

Today, Lord, thank you again for the taste and texture of wisdom that has been such a healthy spiritual diet for me this year.