Ahhhhhh, the infamous Proverbs 31 woman. Did you roll your eyes? I thought I saw that!
I'm kidding, of course, but sisters, let's address the elephant in the room! We read in Proverbs 31 about the ultimate #LadyBoss. I mean, let's say it, she is the bomb. Let's also be honest about this, as we read the account of the elusive Proverbs 31 woman, we can easily allow what's meant to inspire us, deflate us. What's meant to spur on humble service and escort us into more authentic faith can easily make us feel less than in almost every way a woman can. Let's also be candid with one another. She is one fantastic example of a woman! However, she is most likely not ONE woman at all. There are differing opinions about who this quintessential woman truly is. Undoubtedly, her virtuous attributes are based on the example of real women. However, she is most likely a representation of many outstanding women and an inspiring example of what we, as women, can strive for to enjoy our best life and lead our family into their best lives. As you consider this, I pray you'll allow her to be a source of hope and inspiration rather than unattainable ambition that leads to comparison or discouragement. The Lord uses the Proverbs 31 woman to help us grow. She is there for OUR service, and there is much we can learn from her if we are willing.
Here are five Proverbs 31 woman habits we can emulate to prepare our day for success and upright, virtuous living.
Get up early!
It's no secret that I'm a proponent of early rising. In truth, my charge of heart came partially from the study of Proverbs 31. She's a woman, just like us, and, in her wisdom, she knew that getting up before her household would serve her well. We are no exception. Taking time early to spend time refreshing your spirit and preparing yourself for the day is one of the most profound choices we can make. You can read more here about my journey to embracing mornings.
Begin with gratitude!
I read this passage of scripture at least a dozen times before one particular word jumped off the page at me one day. Verse 13 says, "She looks for wool and flax. And works with willing hands in delight." Did you catch that last word? She works with DELIGHT. I don't know about you, but if you ask my family to describe my service to them, I'm not confident they'd use, "With delight," as a choice adjective. It's easy to get stuck in a place where the grind gets to you. Without warning, our blessing seems like a burden. And, delight turns to drudgery. When I read this verse, I feel convicted to check in on my level of gratitude. It's essential to begin our day with a grateful heart. Begin by thanking the Lord for all the toilets you GET to clean! Thank Him for the workout you GET to enjoy because your body can perform it! Thank Him for the day at home with your kids when many are juggling a 9-5 job. Thank Him for the abundance of food choices you have, to the extent that you have the incredible luxury of watching what you eat instead of wondering what you'll eat. Begin with gratitude and notice how delight develops.
Plan your day!
This characteristic should come as no surprise. After all, God Himself is a planner! Scripture encourages planning. Flexibility is also a necessary companion to keep planning from becoming rigid when inevitable change comes. However, planning is prudent. I like to use an old-school written planner, but endless apps help seamlessly layout your day. You can plan everything from schedules, to appointments, to meals. Planning was vital for Ms. P31, and it is for you and me too!
Don't be afraid to ask for help!
We read Proverb 31 woman's impressive resume and think she is superhuman! We think to ourselves, "Some days I do some of this well; other days l lose my keys in the fridge." I mean, who can do all of that? Not me, and likely, not you. Let's look at verse 15 carefully. It says, "She also rises while it is still night and gives food to her household and assigns tasks to her maids." Sisters, she had help! Her maids (or maidens) were her staff there to help and support her. When we study Proverbs 31 woman, this is an easy one to overlook.
I don't know about you, but I'm notoriously guilty of trying to do it all. That may work (sort of) for a short time, but burn out, fatigue, and loss of gratitude soon follow. We can't do it all. If you can afford to pay for help in areas where you need it, permit yourself. We may not all be able to afford to pay for help, so look around you. Who is able and willing to give you a hand? What tasks can you assign to your kids? Is there a fantastic teen in your neighborhood dying to make a couple of dollars watching the kids while you tackle tasks? Get creative, and don't be afraid to ask for help!
Strengthen yourself!
Ladies, I can't say this enough. Nothing, absolutely nothing, starts our day off on the right foot, like taking time to nourish your mind, body, and soul first thing in the morning. Verse 17 tells us that, "She equips herself with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task]. And makes her arms strong." This wise woman knew that to do and be all God called her to that she had to be healthy spiritually, mentally, and physically. Beginning your day with time in the Word, worship, and prayer is the most effective way to strengthen yourself spiritually. We also know from her example that tending to mental and physical health is also essential. We believe this at our very core here at Dashing Dish and have provided countless resources to help you grow in this way. If you haven't, take time to peruse the blog. In the meantime, here a few resources I think you'll find helpful.
on this blog post
More Comments Loading...I'd love to hear your thoughts!