Faith, Family, & First Responders

Scripture Focus: Proverbs 31:10-31 & Proverbs 17:22

When we think of the Proverbs 31 woman, we often picture this incredible, almost intimidating example of virtue, strength, and diligence. She is trustworthy, wise, hardworking, kind, and reverent to the Lord. From dawn until dusk, she cares for her household with excellence. She is a woman who builds, who nurtures, who plans ahead, and who speaks with wisdom and kindness. Proverbs 31:10-31 paints a picture of a woman who is clothed in dignity and strength — a woman we are called to admire and, with God’s help, emulate.

Let’s remind ourselves of some of her qualities:

• She is trustworthy (v. 11)
• She works with willing hands (v. 13)
• She rises early to provide for her home (v. 15)
• She is resourceful and plans ahead (v. 16, 21)
• She is strong and dignified (v. 25)
• She speaks with wisdom and kindness (v. 26)
• She fears the Lord (v. 30)

It’s easy to read these verses and feel the weight of responsibility. But there’s something else, something subtle in these verses that points us toward a joyful life, not just a dutiful one. Proverbs 31:25 says, “She laughs at the days to come.” This isn’t a woman crushed under the pressure of her tasks. She’s filled with joy and confidence, knowing her hope is in the Lord.

This connects beautifully with Proverbs 17:22, which reminds us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” As we seek to cultivate the heart and habits of the Proverbs 31 woman, we must remember that joy isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Laughter, light-heartedness, and fun are not signs of laziness or immaturity. They are signs of trust. A woman who can laugh, who can smile even when the days are long and the work is hard, is a woman who knows the weight of her life does not rest on her alone. She trusts God with her future. She delights in the present. She makes space for joy.

Joy brings life to our homes, warmth to our relationships, and refreshment to our souls. In all the busyness of being a wife, mother, worker, and servant of the Lord, don’t forget to pause and laugh. Don’t forget to play with your children, share a joke with your husband, or find joy in the small, silly moments of your day.

A Proverbs 31 woman is a woman of strength, yes — but she’s also a woman of joy.

A Prayer for Today:
Father, thank You for the example of the Proverbs 31 woman. Help me to grow in her qualities: to be diligent, wise, kind, and God-fearing. But also remind me to embrace joy. Teach me to laugh freely, to savor each day, and to trust You with all that is to come. Let my joy be a reflection of my faith in You. Amen.