Proverbs 31:25
Today’s culture conveys to women that we must be focused on achievements. Including higher pay, and external beauty. But a woman of faith loves God with all her heart, soul, and strength (Mt 22:37). She is filled with the Holy Spirit and lives in freedom because of her faith in Christ Jesus. And because of her faith she walks with strength, dignity and peace. A woman of faith is able to experience overwhelming joy not anxiety. And she is also fearless about the future. For she is ready to face anything with God, “laughing at the days to come.”
So, let’s break down Proverbs 31:15 so that this freedom available to all His daughters, is found in us. “She is clothed…” We only need to go into any large department store these days to see how much value women place on clothing. But 1 Peter 3:3 says, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornments, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes.” Rather, the godly woman will be clothed with her Christ-like character. More of our attention should be set on the conditions of our heart. For our outside shell is fading away.
“She is clothed with strength and dignity;” These two traits fit nicely together, for you won’t find strength of character without the dignity. And you won’t find dignity in a person who is weak. Unfortunately, the culture today seems to be defining a “strong woman” as one who is sassy, disrespectful, insolent and truly un-dignified. Our culture seems to call anger strength, and it’s hurting especially the younger generations in my opinion.
But God’s word is clear, meek has never been a synonym for weak. Because true strength of character comes from strength in The Spirit (Lk 1:80) And because of that strength she can laugh. Why? Because she has no fear of the days to come. For she lives wisely and is prepared for what might come. She knows aging is inevitable and doesn’t care. She knows what true beauty is; a gentle and quiet spirit inside of her. And she can laugh because she is carefree, not running after the things of the world. Instead she trusts and leans on her Savior, encouraging others to do the same!
Blessings….Sue
