True Beauty

Today’s Wisdom for Women is the second part of the description of the godly woman. As you read this, you might feel intimidated, but please know that is not the point. She is not superwoman. As a young woman, I didn’t have anyone to mentor me. I had no idea how to be a wife or how to live a life of discipline and purpose, but then I found her, the Proverbs 31 woman. She gave me a picture and a pattern, someone to learn from, and she gave me hope.

Strength and honor are her clothing;She shall rejoice in time to come.She opens her mouth with wisdom,And on her tongue is the law of kindness.She watches over the ways of her household,And does not eat the bread of idleness.Her children rise up and call her blessed;Her husband also, and he praises her:“Many daughters have done well,But you excel them all.”Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,But a woman who fears 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 31:25-31 (NKJV)

In closing, I must end with a final word for some brokenhearted mother reading right now. Although you’ve done your best, your child is a prodigal, and you feel like a failure. Let’s look at the phrase “Her children rise up”—it’s then that they call her blessed. If your child has fallen, is far from God and maybe far from you, God does hear your prayers, because remember, God the Father has a few prodigals himself.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

As we finish our journey through the book of Proverbs, it is noteworthy that the last chapter concludes with a stunning picture of the godly woman. She is far from a stereotypical, straight-laced, religious stoic. A woman who personally knows, passionately reveres, and wholeheartedly trusts God has a dignity that only authentic faith and integrity can bestow. Her beauty is more than skin deep. Strength, honor, kindness, and diligence are the fabric of who she is. She is a lighthouse, shining over the troubled waters of our generation. God is wooing you, inviting you to join her ranks. Will you rise up, take your place, and take your stand for wisdom?

One Year Bible Reading

Malachi 3:1–4:6; Revelation 22:1-21; Psalm 150:1-6; Proverbs 31:25-31