One Woman Can Change the WorldSample

Day Five

Celebrating God’s Design in All We Do

Scripture: Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 is often quoted as a twenty-two-verse homage to wives, moms, and grandmas. Rarely is the chapter read in its entirety. At her core, the Proverbs 31 woman isn’t an enviable wish list for the perfect wife and mom. No, this story is about a woman who leads and serves well. 

The chapter is written by King Lemuel, but the true author of the words is his mom. First, she encourages rest and restoration, loving well by leading well, giving a voice to the voiceless, and serving with palms up and knees bent as God’s life is incarnated in ours. And then she starts describing a picture of true leadership—a best-in-class example for her son to pursue. 

A true leader is strong and industrious, always looking for ways to care for others—especially those who serve. She looks at everything around her as an opportunity to care more wholly, and she is unafraid to dig in deep. She’s wise in her financial decisions, responding with forethought in seasons of plenty to prepare for seasons of want, because she knows there will be both. Her leadership lifts those around her and gives them places of honor. She invests time in people and finds joy when they benefit from that investment. She is unafraid of an uncertain future because she knows wisdom and kindness will greet her there—and they have not failed her yet. 

She knows family, friends, employees, and the community count on her, so she starts her day by preparing for it, making sure it is placed on the right track by tending to the nourishment of her body, soul, and spirit. She ends her day by retreating to a quiet place—a sanctuary so valuable to her well-being that she has honored it by giving it the best she has. 

King Lemuel lauds her road-worthy wisdom. And the last two verses of the chapter are a celebration: “She will be praised throughout eternity.” (See Proverbs 31:30–31.)

We are ezer kenegdo, made in the image and likeness of God to celebrate His design in all we do. Out of all the voices clamoring for our attention, Proverbs 31 reminds us that it is the voice of praise that should ring loudest. 

As you read Proverbs 31, which traits of leadership stand out to you the most in this season of your life?