The Womanhood Series: Who Is the Proverbs 31 Woman?

If you’re familiar with the book of Proverbs, you have most likely heard of the Proverbs 31 woman, also described as the “virtuous” woman. If you’re not familiar with Proverbs, keep reading. I love the book of Proverbs in the Bible because it is pregnant with wisdom keys that are applicable to anyone, regardless of who you are. Even if the Bible is unfamiliar territory, Proverbs is one of those books that you can read chapter to chapter and walk away with something that will resonate in your spirit. Its truths are undeniable. One of my favorite chapters is 31 because it provides an outline for womanhood that, when executed and cultivated, is guaranteed to position a woman for success in her life. It is an outline that focuses on the intangible qualities of being an honorable woman—the things that are not often celebrated in popular culture today, but appreciated by those who truly recognize and value their importance and worth.

If you were to simply read the adjectives describing this woman, it would give you a clear picture of who she is. While the context is that of a married woman in a relationship with her husband, even single women can be P31s. Capable, intelligent, virtuous, and precious are just a few of the things that describe her. She is someone who is trustworthy and reliable, in other words, she’s not a flake and she keeps her word. It says she comforts people and encourages them. She opens her mouth to speak good things, and not evil things; she knows the power of her words and uses them wisely for the purpose of building others up and not tearing them down. She always has wise counsel and instruction on her lips.

Another thing I love about the Proverbs 31 woman is that she is a business woman. The Bible describes her as an enterprising woman who “works with willing hands” and has goods and services to provide to other people. She’s not waiting for a hand out or for someone to rescue her, but instead she is making things happen in a way that puts her in a position to delegate jobs and assignments to others. Not only that but she manages her household with wisdom and is a woman of prayer and integrity. She is spiritually and emotionally strong, dignified, and secure.

In a world where insecurity has become the benchmark of womanhood, resulting in conduct and behavior that reflects on women negatively, it is no wonder that when people encounter a P31 woman they are refreshed, pleasantly surprised, and stand in admiration of her. She is a welcome change in a society that has actually empowered women to be mere shells of who God created them to be.

Becoming this type of woman is a process, not an overnight event. We “become” through the choices we make on a daily basis. Any woman can become the things the Word describes, once she decides that’s what she wants to do. Any woman can look at where she is now, look at her reflection in the mirror and decide she wants the woman staring back at her to reflect the character and nature of God, versus the character and nature of this world. Some things to consider in your journey toward virtuous womanhood are:

1. The importance of allowing God’s definition of what’s valuable to be your standard. Proverbs 31 is a model of womanhood that is based on spiritual development and character. It’s interesting to note that the entire chapter focuses on what her character was like, but gives no physical description of her. Verse 30 says that “charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord shall be praised.” To “fear” the Lord simply means to honor and respect God, not fear in the sense of being afraid. Think about how you feel when someone honors and respects you—it makes you want to reciprocate the honor and respect. The character of honor and respect for God is what trumps outward appearances, material possessions, or a charming personality. In other words, spend time cultivating your relationship with God; make it a priority.

2. Pray. Having a strong prayer life builds your confidence in God and also puts you in a position to hear Him speak to you about you. The more you pray, the stronger you become spiritually and the more discerning you become about the decisions you are facing in life. Decisions are the open door into reality so when your decisions are in line with God’s will, it will lead you into a Proverbs 31 reality.

3. Study the Word of God.
If you’re not familiar with a bunch of scriptures, the book of Proverbs is a great place to start for practical wisdom on how to live your life. The key is to start somewhere. As you continue to read, ask God to open the eyes of your understanding and you will find yourself on a journey of discovery through the Word of God. The more you meditate on it, the more the character of God will be developed in you. You will be surprised at how your mindset and attitude about who you are as a woman will begin to shift and your priorities will move from being self-focused to God-focused.

Your focus is the process of your development. Keep that in mind as you embark on your journey towards virtuous womanhood. God has you in His hand and will bring you to your ultimate destination of power, virtue, and success as you let Him mold you into the woman He created you to be!