Being Remembered As A Devoted Christian

Wapello County, Iowa, history lesson: The town of Agency, just outside Ottumwa, was established in 1838 by the United States government as an Indian agency for the Fox and Sac tribes. The agency was overseen by General Joseph Street, who became great friends with our county's namesake, Chief Wa Pe Lo.

General Street and his family are buried in Agency, as is Chief Wa Pe Lo, who wanted to be buried with his good friend. The sign pictured here is next to General Street's wife Eliza's grave. "At age 15, she chose the Savior as her eternal portion and lived an active and devoted Christian until she heard the welcome words, 'Enter thou into the joy of the Lord.'"

His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:21

Since I first saw this marker several years ago, I've wondered if Eliza chose what was written on her tombstone or if it's what was written for her by those who knew her and loved her. There's something about leaving a legacy that resonates with all of us, making a difference in the world that the next generations will remember us for. What better memorial than to be known as a woman of God?

It makes me smile to think that the Bible Eliza was reading in the 1800s is the same Bible I'm reading today. God's word is the same yesterday, today, and forever, so I can be affected and influenced by it - just like she was - to live a life devoted to Him. There is no power or grace in the past that we don't have in the 21st century, which gives me hope that we can be prayer warriors and friends of God who can change the world. But where do we start?

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing issilk and purple.

Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue isthe law of kindness.

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman thatfeareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31:10-31

As we wrap up our week, my prayer is that we'll take some time to delve into the Proverbs 31 woman's story, use the example of Eliza Street, and ask God that we'll have a positive spiritual influence in the world around us. When we got saved, He left us here to share the gospel and allow the Holy Spirit to move us for His honor and glory. Let's be remembered for being devoted Christian women dedicated to serving our Lord.