A Woman Of Purpose And PowerSýnishorn

Free in Christ

The world tells us to prove our worth by what we accomplish. The Bible tells us to accept our worth in the One who loves us. Remember the story of Martha and Mary when Jesus first visited their home? Although Martha was busy preparing a meal for Jesus, He quietly reminded her that Mary had made the better choice by simply sitting at His feet to hear His words of life. (See Luke 10:38–42.)

As we continue our theme from the previous devotional, let’s recognize that the woman of Proverbs 31 is not just a busy woman. She is a woman who knows her purpose in God:

• She knows that she is to trust God and draw her strength from Him so she will not be paralyzed by anxiety; her family and others with whom she is in relationship will be able to put their confidence in her; they will know she has their best interests in mind. (See verses 11–15.)
• She knows that God values her abilities and intelligence, so she is free to pursue opportunities and make plans for expanding her realm of influence. (See verses 16–18, 24.)
• She knows that God is her ultimate Source and He desires to bless her, so she sets about her work with energy and anticipation. She has a good attitude and doesn’t complain. (See verse 17.)
• Since God has blessed her, she desires to be a blessing to others, and she reaches out to those less fortunate than she. (See verse 20.)
• Because she knows that her worth comes from her position in God, she treats herself with respect. (See verse 25.)
• She has immersed herself in God’s Word in order to know His ways; therefore, she is able to give godly wisdom and instruction to others. (See verse 26.)
• Because she has come to know the God of all encouragement, she encourages her husband, children, friends, and coworkers, and she invests herself in their lives. (See verse 28.)

I wholeheartedly encourage you to accept the freedom God has provided for you in Christ. Know that you are esteemed by Him. Develop the creative ideas He has given you. Use the gifts and talents He has placed within you. Be the blessing to yourself, your family, and your community that He created you to be.

Thought: Accept the freedom God has given you in Christ.