Our Daily Bread: Voices of FaithSample

Where Honor Is Due

Honor her for all that her hands have done. -Proverbs 31:31

What images cross our minds when we read about the “virtuous woman” in Proverbs 31? Maybe we think of a woman tending to her home and family and building a brilliant career.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, known as “Ma Ellen,” is such a virtuous woman. She is also known internationally as Africa’s “Iron Lady,” the first democratically elected female head of state in Africa.

She became Liberia’s president in 2005. This woman has been hunted, imprisoned, and exiled. But her honors and awards include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian decoration, and the Nobel Peace Prize.

Fittingly, President Johnson Sirleaf credits her mother’s courage, work ethic, and “fear of the Lord” with empowering her choices.

According to God's principles, honor and praise are intrinsic to wise living. Proverbs 31:10–31 tells us to honor the woman who embodies wisdom by submitting all of her life to God and who serves others with her skills. “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise” (v. 31).

Pursued as a political threat because of her stand for justice and giving every citizen a voice, and trying to end poverty, Johnson Sirleaf is a global leader in women’s empowerment. Her life highlights how wisdom uplifts character and skills that bring health, security, and fruitfulness inside and outside the home!

Wise living restores and rebuilds broken communities, nations, and generations.

Tia Swain

What do you find difficult about trusting God for the recognition and rewards that come from living in a way that honors Him?

Thank You, Lord, for making it clear in Your Word that I’ll be recognized and rewarded for the ways I serve You and others. Guide me with Your wisdom.