Proverbs 31:18

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about the work ethic of the virtuous woman:

Proverbs 31:18 (NASBStr)

She senses that her gain is good;

Her lamp does not go out at night.

Proverbs 31:18 (ESV Strong's)

She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.

Her lamp does not go out at night.

The virtuous women has many attributes we all can emulate.   As we read through Proverbs 31 each proverb gives us more insight and much spiritual fodder.   In the above proverb we see the work ethic of this women of virtue.   She is first motivated by her own success.  She "senses" that her "gain" is "good."   When you realize that the work of your ends is profitable and doing good you are given an added motivation to keep that going.  Here is where the second line comes into play.  Since she sees that her work is profitable she is persuaded to work that much harder.  Motivational theorist would tell you that success breads success.   The virtuous woman sees the good she is doing and wants to do more.  That motivates her to work even harder.   She doesn't allow the clock to slow her down.   Darkness is not a hindrance to her hard work.   She lights a lamp and keeps on working.   Those who have a strong work ethic are not hindered by nature.   Earlier Solomon has told us that a lion in the streets stops the sluggard (Prov. 26:13).   This women is not daunted by what stops normal people.   Most, when darkness falls, stop working to enjoy their fruit of their labor.   This women is the fruit of her labor and that makes her work harder.   Success breads success.   What a great lesson from a woman who simply didn't and couldn't stop.