“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:30)

I would argue that this verse is just as valid across all of God’s creation, man and woman alike. Nonetheless, the specific verse we have in today’s nugget draws a comparison between a charming and beautiful woman who uses her gifts for deception versus a woman who shows genuine and God honoring fear of the Lord. First, we are to note that there is no absolute connection between charm and beauty with deception except the woman’s choice to use her gifts in that way. In other words, being charming or beautiful doesn’t automatically make you a deceptive person, nor do these qualities speak anything about your passion for the Lord (good or bad). Instead, today’s verse is both a warning about the potentially shallow nature of some people while also reminding us to praise those who elevate God above themselves. Unfortunately, those who have been given the greatest gifts also tend to use those gifts as a self-promoting platform. Wealth, intelligence, beauty, and having a naturally charismatic and inviting personality are all things people use to elevate themselves to God’s level. For example, those who are financially secure will rarely pray for their “daily bread” to be met by God. So today’s verse is really a warning to continually put God first. Reminding us all that the gifts we have, should not only be used to serve God’s purpose in our lives, but also to remember that some things will be short-lived. And while things like money and beauty may be “fleeting,” God’s love is everlasting. So in the end, be joyful and grateful for the gifts we have received – but remain reverently fearful of the almighty God in heaven who gave them to you.