A Strong and Influential Woman

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. (Proverbs 31:16-21)

What an amazing poetic description of a woman who should be praised. The writer of this proverb talks about a strong, empowered woman who embodies strength, wisdom, and compassion.

• She considereth a field and buyeth it. She understands money and business.

• She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She takes care of her body.

• She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She will do whatever is necessary and as long as it takes to help her family.

• She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She makes things for her family.

• She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She does everything she can to support and help others.

• She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She doesn’t find excuses to keep herself idle.

• She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. She looks good!

• She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches her words and how she talks to others.

Practical Application

Godly women are not weak; they are strong and influential!

Psalm 41:1; Acts 9:40

The Valor of a Worthy Woman

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. (Proverbs 31:10-15)

When we use the term virtuous woman, it describes a woman of substance, a woman worthy of praise, a force of power and strength and great valor. This isn’t just poetic rhetoric; this is a definition from God’s heart.

Why is this so important? Understanding what a virtuous woman is matters to each woman, but it also affects husbands and those who interact with each woman.

A virtuous woman has a profound impact on her husband’s heart. Proverbs 31:11 says that his heart doth safely trust in her. This verse refers to a trust that runs deep, trust that goes beyond superficial hope. She keeps her word; she does what is right, and she has proven to be trustworthy.

The virtuous woman is also known to do him good and not evil all the days of her life. That means that she will step out and actively help, actively support, actively see what she can do to bless and honor him.

Verse 13 tells us she will work with her hands. She isn’t looking for everyone else to do the hard tasks. She will do what is within her power and ability.

Then the writer of the proverb likens the woman to merchant ships. She is resourceful, committed, and willing to rise before anyone else to do what needs to be done.

Practical Application

Man or woman, upon reading this, did the Holy Spirit highlight one of these character traits? Was there something that you felt convicted by that you need to change? Listen to the Holy Spirit and evaluate what He wants you to adjust so you live this lifestyle of valor.

Proverbs 12:4; Ephesians 5:25

Favored: The Results of a Good Man

A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn. (Proverbs 12:2)

Goodness has nothing to do with outward appearance. Anyone with a good PR campaign or filters on their phone can make themselves look good. Scripturally, goodness is a heart condition that aligns with God’s purposes and principles. How do you know if you are walking in God’s purposes? The only way is to read and understand the Word. God’s Word is God’s purpose. God’s Word is God’s will. God’s will is His way. Walking in God’s ways is the key to obtaining favor from the Lord.

The antithesis of the good man of this verse is one who is full of wicked devices. The word devices in the Hebrew is mezimmah and means discretion, schemes, purposes, or intents. This describes a person who has premeditated ways to do things contrary to God’s way and God’s plan.

What does God promise to the person who is wickedly scheming? Proverbs 12:2 says God will condemn them. The Hebrew word for condemn in this Scripture stems from the root word rasha and is translated in the Bible as to be vexed and to be guilty. It is a dangerous thing to be seen that way in the eyes of God.

The best way to live your life is in the favor of God, not feeling condemned.

Living in His goodness only comes from knowing His Word and acting according to it.

Practical Application

When you face a hard decision or a stressful moment, ask yourself, “What is God’s good way in this moment”? Asking, “How does God want me to act in goodness during the hard times?” is a powerful question for us to consider so we can live in His glorious favor.

Proverbs 8:25; Acts 11:24