Harvest 365Sample

Okay, honest moment…

As much as I love the idea of the Proverbs 31 woman,  I often feel a little intimidated by her. She is incredible because she gives us a clear example of the characteristics a righteous woman should strive for in her life. The Proverbs 31 woman wasn’t actually a real woman, rather a father’s description to his son of what to look for in an admirable woman. But the more I read through Proverbs 31,  the more I realize these are actually characteristics God would want us to have in our lives. And dare I say it, I believe these characteristics are qualities we should ALL (man and woman) strive for in our Christian walk. 

So what are the characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman?

This passage is full of them but here are just a few I am trying (and I mean trying) to live out in my life:  

• Trustworthy (v11) 

This is an admirable quality in anyone. Can I be trusted with the big things and the little things? Do I follow through on what I say I’m going to do?  

• Time Savvy (v13)

She spends time on that which is good. She works diligently to complete her tasks. Do I work willingly and enthusiastically with what God has put in my hands?  

• Healthy (v 14-15,17) 

She takes care of her physical, mental, and spiritual health. She wears strength like a belt and goes to work with energy. She prepares healthy food for her family. 

What steps am I taking to ensure I look after my body, mind, and spirit?  

• Sacrificial (v15) 

She takes care of her responsibilities and prioritizes them over her own needs and desires. 

What am I working towards that may require me to sacrifice time, energy, and/or money?  

• Steward (v16, 18)

She is a wise steward of the gifts God has given her. She shows care and uses her talent and skills in order to be successful. 

Am I stewarding what God has given me?  

• Compassionate (v20) 

She has a gentle, loving spirit and opens her arms to the poor and the needy. 

There are desperate people wherever we turn. 

Am I connecting, welcoming, empathizing with, and loving those around me?  

• Prepared (v21)

She is ready for anything. She is prepared for every season.

How can I strengthen myself to be more prepared for the seasons that lay ahead?  

• Faith-Filled (v26)

She serves God with all of her heart, mind, and soul, and, therefore, God’s wisdom and kindness flow through her.

Are wisdom and kindness flowing from my life because I spend time with Him? 

•  Homemaker (v 15, 27) 

She’s is a good manager of her home. She creates an atmosphere of warmth and love for her family and guests. She uses hospitality to minister to those around her. 

Am I creating an atmosphere where people feel loved and able to come as they are?  

• Beautiful (v10, 21-22) 

She is creative and embraces beauty and godliness. She has an inner beauty that only comes from God.

Do people see Jesus when they spend time with me?  

• Confident (v25) 

She is able to smile at the future because she knows God's plans are good. 

Do I truly believe “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.“? (Philippians 1:6) 

Rachel Cartledge - Senior Pastor - Harvest Church