“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
Proverbs 31:25 (NIV)
The Proverbs 31 woman is one of the most well-known and revered women in the Bible. She is known for her strength, her wisdom, and her unwavering devotion to God. She is a true example of what it means to be a woman of faith and character. As we celebrate women, we can look to the Proverbs 31 woman as a source of inspiration and encouragement.
In Proverbs 31:25, we read that this woman is “clothed with strength and dignity”, painting a beautiful picture of a woman who is confident in who she is and who she is created to be. She is strong in her faith, in her relationships, and in her convictions. She is dignified in her speech, in her behaviour, and in her attitude. And because of this, she can laugh at the days to come.
This verse reminds us that our strength and dignity come not from our efforts or accomplishments but from our identity in Christ. When we know who we are in Christ, we can face the future with confidence and joy, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.
One woman in the Bible who exemplified this kind of strength and dignity was Deborah. Deborah was a prophetess and judge in Israel during a time when the nation was in great turmoil. She was known for her wisdom, her courage, and her ability to lead with grace and strength.
When the Israelites were facing a fierce enemy, Deborah called upon a man named Barak to lead the army into battle. Barak was hesitant, but Deborah encouraged him and promised God would be with him. And true to her prophesy, God gave the Israelites a great victory.
Deborah’s leadership was not based on her own abilities or authority but on her faith in God. She knew that it was He who had given her the strength and wisdom to lead, and she trusted Him to guide her every step of the way.
Who are you trusting to lead you in your time of adversity? With Christ as your head, you can laugh at the days to come knowing He will see you through.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the women in the Bible who have inspired us with their strength and dignity. We thank You for Deborah, who led with courage and wisdom. Help us to be women who are confident in who we are in Christ, who trust in Your provision and guidance, and who will find joy and laughter in the days to come. May we be women who reflect Your grace and love to the world around us; in Jesus’s name, Amen.
Read: Joshua 23:6; Proverbs 31:17
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 60:5-12; John 8:12-30; Judges 18; Judges 19
