“Gratitude Unveiled: Embracing Imperfection with the Everyday Wonder Woman"

Nov 19

"Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come."

—Proverbs 31:25 (ESV)

The Realness, Growth, and Impact of the Proverbs 31 Woman

As November comes to an end, and we conclude our “Gratitude Unveiled” series, I wanted to change it up and pause to express gratitude to the everyday superheroes in aprons, scrubs, jeans, suits, leggings, and pajamas—the wives, mothers, grandmothers, daughters, aunts, and sisters.

Imagine this—a crazy day finally winding down, and you find that last chocolate chip cookie you hid away in the freezer (pairs perfect with coffee, by the way) –pure bliss, right?

Well, that feeling is a lot like the gratitude we’re getting into today. The real, unfiltered virtues embodied by the remarkable Proverbs 31 woman.

“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and willingly works with her hands. She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar. She also rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household.”—{v.10-15}

Let's kick things off with the raw truth—the Proverbs 31 woman is like a rare gem, more precious than that last chocolate chip cookie hidden in the freezer. And —gratitude? Well, it's the magic dust that turns our homes into a happy chaos. It's as simple as saying, "Hey, I see you doing your thing, and I wouldn't want it any other way."

Gratitude becomes the cornerstone for a wild, beautiful marriage, creating an atmosphere of love, respect, and happiness when we genuinely appreciate our wives’ inherent worth.
Gratitude extends beyond words as we recognize the invaluable gifts of encouragement and unwavering trust she bestows upon her husband, becoming a companion worthy of admiration.
“She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms. She perceives that her merchandise is good and her lamp does not go out by night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hand holds the spindle. She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.”—{v. 17-20}

Now, about this Proverbs 31 woman—the real deal. She's not defined by her to-do list but by who she is. That hits home, right? I mean, let's be honest, when I read those verses, I can't help but think, "How could I ever be anywhere close to this woman?" But then again—maybe it's all about saying you are, SO you will be—perhaps it’s less about perfection and more about claiming it until you become it.

Gratitude swells as we acknowledge the positive impact she has on those around her, ensuring their well-being and happiness.
Her worthiness precedes actions, facing challenges with resilience, taking on life with diligence, discernment, and eagerness.
Wisdom, compassion, and kindness flow effortlessly from her heart as it roots itself in the care she invests in her family, ensuring their well-being and happiness.

You know the saying, "Fake it until you Make it"? Well, forget that. This is more like "Face it until you Make it." The Proverbs 31 woman faces challenges and chaos head-on, and that's the kind of courage I want, and we need. It's about embracing the mess, and striving to be mature, not perfect.

They say words have power, right? If we keep telling ourselves we're worthy—amidst the spilled cereal, unfolded laundry, and occasionally burnt dinners—maybe, just maybe, our actions will catch up. It’s a journey –one where we grow in our mature wifely skills, rocking the adventures of motherhood, and just becoming an all-around awesome human.

Let's be real –the Proverbs 31 woman is not perfect. But guess what? That's totally okay. She's mature, and that's a trait worth chasing. I find myself daily repeating, "Not perfect, just aiming for mature." It's a good anthem for this messy, beautiful journey.

Gratitude blooms as we appreciate her authenticity and the growth that accompanies maturity, navigating life's complexities with grace.
Gratitude cascades as we acknowledge her worthiness in every role she fulfills. As a wife, mother, and contributor to her community, she leaves an unforgettable mark.
“She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; “Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all.”—{v.27-29}

So, here's to the Honorees of Multitasking—the ones who sometimes wonder if they are nailing it or failing it. In this gratitude-filled celebration of the Proverbs 31 woman—the real deal, the rare gem, the not-so-perfect woman, yet undeniably amazing—let's remember to embrace the journey. It's not about perfection but about maturity, about learning, growing, and becoming the women God intended us to be.

Oh, and make sure you “thank” the Proverbs 31 Women in your life!

“Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and her tongue is the law of kindness.” —{v. 25-26}

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and join the conversation in our 'Reclaimed' series. It's all about real life, real growth, and, of course, real gratitude. #HeartfeltGratitude #ReclaimedSeries #RealAndGrowing"