Today’s lesson does not require any money or resources.  It doesn’t require skillful hands, gifts and talents.  It only requires a decision and some action.  The virtuous woman opens her mouth with wisdom.  And her tongue is the recognized boundary of kindness.  "Wisdom" is the correct application of knowledge.  The Old Testament Hebrew word for "wisdom” is "hok-mah” which means "skill,” or "care,” or "skill in living.” 

The New Testament Greek word for "wisdom” is "sophia” which means "a deep understanding and realization of people, things, events or situations, resulting in the ability to correctly apply perceptions, judgments, and actions.”   There are many people who possess intelligence, but no wisdom.  There are others who possess intelligence with the understanding.  When there is intelligence and understanding, wisdom is possible.  When we respond to situations with wisdom rather than reacting with emotions, we demonstrate the attribute of strength.  The virtuous woman doesn’t give voice to whatever she thinks or feels.  She opens her mouth with wisdom. 

Before Solomon met his downfall, he was known for his gift of wisdom.  He wrote earlier in the Book of Proverbs:  (1) Proverbs 13:3 "He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.”   (2) Proverbs 21:23 "Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.”   And, (3) Proverbs 29:20 "Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.”

"Wise speaking" is the most distinguishing feature of the virtuous woman.  She is a very good manager of her words.  In all of her excellence, she is meek and of a quiet spirit.  This doesn’t mean she is always quiet, but she has a quiet and peaceful spirit….and it shows in the words that she speaks.  She speaks life into her husband, her children, her servants, and into her situations and circumstances.  You, too, can practice "wise speaking" by establishing a "conscious interrupt”  to help you change your script.  Count to three and/or take a deep breath before you speak.  You will give yourself the time you need to respond with wisdom rather than react with emotions.  (Repeat the GEM FOR TODAY throughout the day)

GEM FOR TODAY:   Father, I thank You that you have given me intelligence along with the ability to understand.  My intelligence and understanding give me the wisdom I need for every situation.  I apply knowledge correctly, and I choose to "respond” rather than "react.”   (Men say) I AM A MAN OF VALOR, AND I VALUE GOD'S PRICELESS WOMAN!!! (Women say) I AM GOD'S PRICELESS WOMAN!!! In Jesus' Name, Amen