| Proverbs 11:18 – “She perceives that her merchandise is good, and her lamp does not go out by night.” |
My mom sewed a lot when I was younger and made many of my clothes. I remember being fascinated that she could lay out some fabric, mark off some measurements, and then soon I would have a dress or shirt. Once she made a cute corduroy jumper for me that was printed with cats, and even had enough left over to make a matching dress for one of my dolls. As a working mother living on a farm and caring for a husband and five children, she often had to work late into the night to get her projects completed. Once I was older, she taught me some sewing basics which I developed further in 4H and then by taking sewing classes in high school. There was a lot of trial-and-error, and the seam ripper was my best friend. I made many of my own things, but really put my machine to use once my daughter was born. I loved sewing for her, and one time I stayed up almost all night to make a formal that she told me she needed at the last minute. Sure, I was tired the next day, but there was a great sense of pride in making something special and one-of-a-kind. My sewing was not limited to just clothing – I went on to make home décor items like pillows, curtains and even a bed spread.
Our verse above describes the woman from Proverbs 31 who has started a side business to supplement the family income. She has already done everything to keep her family fed and well cared for, but she is using her gift as a weaver and seamstress and making items that could be sold across the region to benefit others. She has spent many years perfecting her craft, and now is able to reap the rewards.
What is your gift that inspires you to work late into the night? It may be painting, or writing, or sewing. God has given you many gifts – are you using them for his glory?
Prayer: Dear Father, thank you for the gifts you have given me. Help me to practice and develop them into what you want them to be. Lead me to opportunities to share this gift with others. Amen.
-Betty Gossell
