TODAY’S SIGNATURE VERSE ••• Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. (Proverbs 31:25-26 ESV)
PRAISE & PRAYER PROMPT ••• Last night, a friend of mine died rather unexpectedly. She was someone I have held in tremendous regard… a true woman of faith. She has been my friend and a trusted prayer warrior; I am going to miss her so much.
As I think of her, I can’t help but think of the Proverbs 31 woman. Proverbs 31:10-31 gives a beautiful description, and among the many Proverbs 31 attributes, it says, “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (Proverbs 31:25-26 ESV).
My friend was a Proverbs 31 model of grace, dignity, strength, perseverance, courage, care, compassion, and so many other wonderful characteristics. She has been loved by so many, and there will be many tears shed over this unexpected loss. I really don’t know if she had any idea the legacy she would leave behind. Beyond her family (who she adored), her faith-legacy is huge and far-reaching. I have learned so much from her example and what stands out the most to me is her unwavering trust in God, no matter what the circumstances.
Her life is a testimony to the grace of God; His mercy and kindness; and the joy of surrendering to His plan—even when life takes us in unexpected valleys.
There was never a question of her priorities… it was God first, family second, and others third. She demonstrated a servant’s heart—a heart that wasn’t caught up in the irrelevant details but a heart that genuinely cared about people. She never hesitated to pray for those who asked for prayer. She was never too rushed to be present in the moment. She always made time for others. And she always encouraged her friends.
As the recipient of her prayers, presence, time, and encouragement—I can say from personal experience what a treasured gift her friendship has been. I know many will agree with me.
I’ve been blessed to know a number of women who exemplify a Proverbs 31 life, including my late grandmother. I take great comfort in knowing that my friend is, at this very moment, praising Jesus.
Today, as you pray, thank God for the faith legacies of our family and friends. Thank Him for those He puts in our lives to teach us and show us faith in action. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out your own faith that will encourage others to do the same. And please pray for my friend’s family and friends. While we rejoice that we will see her again someday, her absence will be keenly felt in the meantime.
