Sun 9:30a Class; 10:30a Worship; 11:35a Communion
Bible Bites
Helped by Others
Proverbs 31.23 — Her husband is known in the gates, When he sits among the elders of the land.
We sometimes ride on the coattails of others. Sometimes we are known not so much for our own accomplishments, but for the accomplishments of those around us. Or even if the accomplishment is our own, we may owe others for the publicity or the behind-the-scenes work and support. Today's proverb illustrates this.
This verse is nestled in the middle of a lengthy poem (31.10-31) about iconic womanhood. The woman described in this remarkable passage is praised largely for her own accomplishments and work. Verse 23 speaks to her influence. When we think of influence we normally equate it more or less with reputation. Speak the name "Bill Gates" or "Donald Trump" or "Oprah Winfrey" and we immediately think of their wide influence. We think of their financial and career accomplishments and how they have helped others.
But this proverb takes it a step further and speaks to her husband's influence. He has influence because of her. Although I'm not a big
fan of Oprah Winfrey, she is a good illustration of this principle. Many of the people she met and brought to her show through the years became famous in their own right because of her. You may have forgotten, but Dr Phil (love him or hate him!) rose to fame through her show. She then made it possible for him to have his own show. She launched his career and was perfectly content for him to reach his potential.
That is the best kind of influence of all — when we help others reach their own potential. People of good character are not threatened by the success of others, and do what they can to help others grow. Our proverb describes the influence of a wife on behalf of her husband. It could just as easily speak of a husband's influence on behalf of his wife; or a parent's influence on behalf of a child; or a worker's influence on behalf of a coworker; or a religious leader's influence on behalf of church member; or a teacher's influence on behalf of a student; etc.
Who can you help reach their potential? Who can you influence to become influential?
