Virtuous Woman - Integrityনমুনা

Work Ethic

Character Goal: Work ethic is applying your best effort to the work in front of you knowing that it will strengthen your character and bring God glory.

Biblical Characters: Nehemiah, Shallum’s Daughters, and the Israelites

Scripture Readings: Nehemiah 1:1-5, 11; 2:1-5,10 (summary), 11, 16-18; 3:1-2; 4:2,6-11, 14, 16-18, 21, 23; 6:15-16

Discussion Questions

• What had Nehemiah heard about that upset him? What did he do after he heard this?
• What did the king allow Nehemiah to do?
• Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, what did Nehemiah commission the people to do? How did they respond?
• What did Sanballat say about this mission? What does this tell you about those who oppose God and His people?
• Have you ever been ridiculed or made fun of when you set out to do the good works God had for you? How did you respond?
• What do we know about Shallum’s daughters? Considering the type of work they did and the circumstances surrounding it, what can we gather about these women?
• As a woman, athlete, daughter, etc., what good works can you contribute to the people around you for the betterment of your team, family, neighborhood, and city?
• How does Nehemiah describe the way the people worked? What was the result of their hard work? What does this teach us about work ethic and working together?
• Who on your team has a good work ethic? In what ways is this evident?
• After working continuously, how were the laborers beginning to feel?
• What were their enemies plotting? Do you think they were discouraged?
• How does Nehemiah encourage the people?
• When you are tired and discouraged, what are ways you can take your mind off your circumstances and back on God who can give you strength?
• How did the Israelites respond to their enemies' threats? Sometimes we can allow opposition to keep us from moving forward with God’s purposes. What can we learn from their example?
• Describe how the people continued to build the wall after being encouraged.
• Did the Israelites finish the task? Why?
• What does the story teach us about God? Women? How can I apply these truths to my life before the next lesson?

Training for Godliness:

In the story of Shallum's daughters, everyone played a role and did their part. No one role was more important than the other. When each individual applied their best effort to the work in front of them, they accomplished their mission. This is very similar to the players who make up a team or coaches who make up a coaching staff. How is hard work and teamwork applied in this story? Is this a reflection of your effort on your team?

Core Truths:

• Women with good work ethic play a vital role in advancing God’s purposes
• We may face opposition when seeking to fulfill God’s purposes in our lives
• Being reminded of who God is encourages His people to continue in the work

Memory Verse:

Proverbs 31:13 - "She selects wool and flax and works with willing hands."