She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:17
...Many of you know I have been doing an in-depth bible study on my hero, the Proverbs 31 woman.
And the past few weeks I've been reflecting a lot on this verse in particular, listed above--specifically: her arms are strong for her tasks.
I mean, I just love this.
The Proverbs 31 woman is an amazing balance of different archetypal identities: she's a wife, mother, business woman, creative worker (I mean she even sews her own bed spreads!), and so much more.
One of my roles in life is as a certified fitness trainer. I love to sweat. I love to feel strong. I love to take care of my body, mind, and spirit so I can--well, feel good and give my family, and you guys--the MWH community, the best me I can be.
And when I'm meditating on this line--I am immediately energized and inspired. I imagine a woman who knows like she knows like she knows her identity in Christ--her priorities are in His order (bringing Glory to His name), and she ain't lazy!!!
As a life coach, I am a natural encourager. The hardest thing for me about helping others realize their potential is when I coach someone who I can sense is not ready to do the work.
Being a coach is my gift; I can see someone's potential before they can.
But I've had to learn that it is up to that person to allow God's highest vision for them to motivate them to GET UP. To get off the couch. To turn on the workout. To start running towards the best version of themselves. God's gives us the gift of self-will. Unfortunately, many of us use this to run from God's best for our lives.
Proverbs 31 includes this line that her arms are strong, I believe, to help illustrate her incredible work ethic. I can't tell you how many times in my journey others would judge and criticize me for my ambition--almost looking at me as if I was an alien not using my kids as an excuse to skip workouts, not make the business, not create a destiny for myself outside of motherhood. Funny thing is, I wish they knew that God despises laziness. The more He has entrusted for you with (i.e. your gifts and talents, the more that is required of you). God is not glorified when we sit stagnant, not utilizing our talents and potential...but on top of that--those who have the audacity to slander others for their grind? Wheww! Lord, have mercy on them.
If you've been gifted with strength to work, do it! Don't complain one more second that you don't have time. Please. The same clients who tell me they don't have time I ask them how much time they've spent on YouTube, Instagram, and Netflix that week. Their face usually stiffens at that point. C'mon ladies. It's time we stop watching others thrive and we invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts to help transform us into the best versions of ourselves.
I know it's not easy. But neither is sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else shine while you know God has given you ideas to bring forth and share as well. I don't know what gifts God is asking you to cultivate this season. But I DO know you have some if you're breathing.
So, to conclude.
The Proverbs 31 woman...her arms needed to be what? Strong for the tasks--what tasks do your arms need to be strong for? Caring for your children, doing your house work, carrying the groceries up the stairs, going after your dreams...and no one is going to come and make you be a beast in your life for you. Sorry sis. That is on us.
Life can be hard at times. I invite you to meditate on this verse with me in Proverbs 31. Ask God to help you bring forth the qualities of a woman with discipline. You are more than a conquerer!
If you need help getting started, I got you. I have fitness solutions here for the busiest of moms, and a few slots available for mentorship (life and business coaching). Making the decision is the first step. Then, it's having a plan. Because...
A goal without a plan is just a wish.
Love y'all!
Monica