Proverbs 31 is one of the beautiful places in scripture that illuminates our special, distinct purpose as women handmade by God. As a woman in relationship with the Lord, the way we do live and care for others is set apart.
Our work can be full of gratitude and unto the Lord, although it may not be seen by many. Our lives can be marked by humility and strength as we look for ways to serve those in need while trusting the Lord to provide for our needs. Our speech can be full of grace, wisdom, and kindness as we seek the Lord and allow His words to fill our hearts. Our confidence can be steadfast as we realize true beauty in being a woman of God, bearing fruit for the Lord.
As we talk specifically about stewarding our words and influence with wisdom from above, here are some truths from the Lord to ponder.
Words are very important.
Proverbs 18:21 tells us plainly that words have the power of life and death. Jesus tells us in John 6:63 that His words are spirit and life. Like God breathed into Adam’s nostrils the breath of life (Genesis 2:7), we can breathe life into people when we speak over them the words of Jesus. That is how powerful words are, and that is how powerful Jesus is!
Jesus has commissioned us to speak His words.
After Jesus was raised from the dead and before He ascended back to heaven, He spoke this commission to His disciples: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). In order to preach, we must speak. Romans 10:13-15 helps us understand this, sharing that someone can not believe in the Lord unless they hear about Him. And they can not hear about Him unless someone tells them. And someone can not tell them unless they are sent by God. We have indeed been sent by God, called to be His ambassadors of this life-giving Gospel message (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Speaking God’s words over others is a divine privilege and responsibility.
To preach the Gospel is not a suggestion but a divine command for the believer. Knowing God is perfect in love, this command is truly for our betterment (1 John 4:8). It is a beautiful action to walk in by faith, one that brings rich purpose and joy and abundance to our lives when we choose to obey. We get to be part of something grand and something eternal alongside Christ — the filling of the Kingdom of God.
Before words comes the filling of our heart.
Perhaps the most important thing to focus on here is what comes before words — the filling of the heart. Matthew 12:34 contains the powerful words of Jesus, where He tells us, “the mouth speaks from what fills the heart.” Our words simply reveal the posture and health of our heart and soul. Our words reveal how we spend our time, whether with Jesus or apart from Him. As women of God, let’s resolve to be with Jesus. Just like Jesus stepped away to be with His Father, let’s do the same. In our time with the Lord, He is faithful to fill us with everything good so that the words we speak point others to Jesus, who is THE LIFE (John 14:6).
