What does "makes linen garments and sells them" teach about entrepreneurship? Setting the Scene “ She makes linen garments and sells them; she supplies the merchants with sashes.” (Proverbs 31:24) Entrepreneurship Grounded in God-Honoring Work • Productive labor is a virtue. The woman’s skill with linen is celebrated, showing that creating quality goods pleases God (cf. Genesis 2:15; Ephesians 4:28). • “Makes” and “sells” are both present—Scripture unites craftsmanship and commerce rather than pitting them against each other. • Profit is not condemned; it is assumed as a wholesome outcome of diligent effort (Proverbs 14:23). Commitment to Excellence • Linen was a prized fabric in the ancient Near East; her choice of material reflects high standards. • Excellence invites demand: her products attract “merchants,” indicating a reputation that reaches beyond her household (Proverbs 22:29). Wise Risk-Taking • Producing inventory before a sale involves faith-filled risk. Like the servants in Jesus’ parable who “traded with” their talents (Matthew 25:14-23), she invests resources expecting return. • She mitigates risk with knowledge—linen work required familiarity with agriculture (flax), spinning, weaving, and marketing. Market Awareness and Strategy • “Supplies the merchants” reveals wholesale distribution. She identifies an existing network rather than relying only on local retail. • The verse hints at pricing power; quality goods warrant fair compensation (Leviticus 19:13; 1 Timothy 5:18). Integrity and Reputation • Merchants repeatedly buy from her—trust is essential. Scripture links honest scales with God’s delight (Proverbs 11:1). • Her enterprise strengthens the household testimony, echoing 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12: “work with your own hands…so that you will not be dependent on anyone.” Generational Impact • Income from her business enables generosity to the poor (Proverbs 31:20) and stability for her family (v. 21). • Entrepreneurship becomes discipleship; children witness stewardship, diligence, and faith (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Balanced Priorities • The woman’s commerce never eclipses her devotion to God or home (v. 30). Profit serves, it doesn’t rule (Matthew 6:24). • Her schedule (v. 15) and preparation (v. 27) show intentional boundaries. Practical Takeaways Today • Hone a skill worth paying for; quality opens doors. • Study your market; serve real needs rather than forcing a product. • Combine industry with integrity—reputation is capital. • View profit as provision for ministry, family, and community, not self-indulgence. • Remember that work is worship when it reflects God’s creativity and righteousness (Colossians 3:23-24). |
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