The Proverbs 31 Journey: Strength & Honor

Memory/Meditation verse: Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come. ~ Proverbs 31: 25 (HCSB)

When I boldly awaken to 2011 I knew that God was calling me to be more intentional in my spiritual life. Life had dealt me some cards that made me feel like a failure...cards I would have preferred not to have had to live out. Cards I didn't feel I deserved. I yearned for more of God, His peace and an ability to stand firm in life and strong in Him. I wanted to be the kind of woman described in Proverbs 31.

God has taken me to places that have been tough to address in this Proverbs 31 Journey but I am experience a peace in my life, His peace, that proves He is in control. I have written these blog words this year for myself and they are a reflection of His remodeling on my life. I am so grateful for this journey and my Lords companionship.

We will finish looking at the concept of putting on the armor of God this week. Last week I encouraged you to review Hebrews 11 and to look at the great people of faith recorded there. I found encouragement looking at their not so perfect life with not so impressive qualifications to intentionally live out God's plan and the effect it would have on others. Intentional faith has to be shielded by wearing God's armor. Intentional faith requires obedience even if you don't have the full picture of the outcome intended.

This week lets examine the final dressing of the noble and brave Proverbs 31 Woman: the Helmet of Salvation and the Sword of the Spirit. Refresh yourself with Ephesians 6: 11-18 (NLT) here. We will focus on verses 17 & 18:

And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God. Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).

When someone goes into battle, they know the most vulnerable and deadly areas of attack is the chest (heart) and the head (mind). We have addressed last week the shield of faith and its protection for the body and heart. But what about our minds? What is Paul referencing here with the Helmet of Salvation?

Look at this example of satan's attack on Jesus in Matt 4:2-11. A major area of attack from satan was the mind of Jesus-what He believe, how He was thinking. Satan was trying to get to Christ mind with the weapons of doubt and discouragement. And when did he attack the hardest? When physically and mentally Jesus was drained.

Isn't this so like satan today? His attempts at spiritual head wounds are relentless for us Jesus girls! He is good at catching us at our weakest times, isn't he? He tries to plant doubts of our eternal salvation with God and tries to blind us from who we are in Christ. His aim is to discourage us in our faith walk and witness of God's grace and love. Though the helmet may not resemble a tiara that we Jesus girls might prefer to wear, it is a vital component of our daily wardrobe as we progress and grow in this Proverbs 31 Journey.

Our eternal salvation comes from God alone and can not be taken from us, no matter how poorly we may behave. What a refreshing promise!

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.”
~ Acts 4:12 (NLT)

A Proverbs 31 Woman confidently places the Helmet of Salvation each morning. It is her hope, her trusting that God's promises are for all who call Him Lord and Master. It is the spiritual protection of her mind which guides her actions and reactions.

But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation.
~ 1 Thess 5:8 (NLT)

This confidence and hope comes from an intentional relationship with God. An intentional worship and reverence of Him. The more you know Him, hope in Him and confide in Him, the better you will be able to share Him and demonstrate Him in your life.

Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.
~ 1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)

This is a true mark of a Proverbs 31 Woman, a Jesus girl. Her beauty comes from Him. Her hope in Him is her strength. Her heart of faithfulness to Him is a sweet aroma.

But thanks be to God, who always puts us on display in Christ, and spreads through us in every place the scent of knowing Him. For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.
~ 2 Cor. 2:14-15 (HCSB)

Her faith and her hope is her security and assurance. Along with this, the greatest weapon she has to continue to protect her mind, soul and body was evidence by Christ again in Matt 4:2-11. He used the Word of God-which is referenced by Paul in Ephesians 6:17 as the Sword of the Spirit- to combat satans attacks.

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ..."
~ 2 cor. 10: 3-5 (NKJV)

There is nothing more powerful than the Sword of the Spirit. I can testify in my life that scripture has carried me, healed me, guided me, comforted me, and protected me.

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
~ Heb 4:12 (NLT)

Ladies, we have to put God's Word to heart. We have to meditate on it, breath it, live it. Memorizing scripture is vital for our survival in this world. Hunger and thirst for it. Let it become the "oxygen" that sustains your living.

As Ephesians 6:18 implies, once we put on God's armor: the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Belt of Truth, the Sandals of Peace, The Shield of Faith, the Helmet of Salvation, the Sword of Truth we need to coat our wearing of this armor with prayer. Prayer in the Spirit is a necessary component to this wardrobe. Our spiritual warfare is on-going and prayer can be the magnetic field that covers us.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
~ Phil 4:6-7 (NIV)

Prayer is the intervention that allows us to experience peace and contentment when chaos surrounds our life. It is though the Holy Spirits power that we can have all that we need in Christ.

Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.
~ John 3:5-6 (NLT)

Prayer seals our love relationship with God. The prayer life of a Proverbs 31 Woman demonstrates not only submission, but also a heart of love and mind of worship in action.

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love.
~ Jude 20-21

Here is some "oxygen" for you to inhale throughout this week. Daily breath in its truth, experience its power and live spiritually strong. Armour up!

That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.
~ 2 cor 4:16-18 (NLT)

See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure.
~ 1 John 3:1-3 (NLT)

I have tried hard to find you—don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees.
~ Ps 119:10-12 (NLT)

"...those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day."
~ John 6:37 (NLT)

“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.”
~ Matt. 17:20 (NIV)

"...I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.
~ 1 cor 14:15 (NIV)

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
~ Acts 1:8

* * * * * *

Father, my Holy and Sovereign God, you intended to get my attention this year through this study I call the Proverbs 31 Journey and you have. You have exposed my heart, my mind and my soul to the point that I have been able to experience a fresh cleansing and transformation. I thank you even for the pain it has caused me. I thank you for the growth of my faith. You lead me on each of these topics and though I wanted these words impressed on my heart from You to be beneficial to others too, I embrace the comfort and the insight You have selected specifically for me. Continue to lead my heart and mind in this Proverbs 31 Journey over the rest of this year. I embrace this journey of walking intentionally with you. You overwhelm me Lord. I know there's more for me in your plan. I can feel it. I can taste it. Make me ready Lord. Purify my body, mind and spirit so I can serve you in the grace that you have bestowed on me. Though this armor would appear to weigh heavy, it has enlighten me and left me with a transparent peace of You in my life, completely controlling my circumstances and guiding my actions. I am yours Lord. May all the words you place on my heart for these continued postings glorify You only.

Believing Him ~ Pamela

The Proverbs 31 Journey: Walk of Faith

Scripture meditation/memory verse: Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, LORD, my faithful God. ~ Ps. 31:5 (NIV)

We continue our journey...our quest to learning what the Proverbs 31 Woman is made of, how she lives, how she thinks, what she values. We have been looking at her in relationship to Ephesians 6: 11-17 for she is a warrior and she is noble. She may wear many hats, put on many different pieces of clothing each day but none is more important than the putting on of the armor of God. Refresh yourself with our key scripture from Ephesians in the Amplified version:

¹¹Put on God's whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.

¹²For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.

¹³Therefore put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place].

¹⁴Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,

¹⁵And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace.

¹⁶Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked.

¹⁷And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.

¹⁸Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).

This week, lets examine what if means to "take up the shield of faith". A shield used by warriors serve the purpose to protect the whole body. It is large and it blocks any thing that can penetrate the body causing harm and even death. Usually this shield is made out of a heavy metal or a tough leather. It has to be with the individual in order for it to work. If it is left in the closet or under the bed, this individual puts themself at risk for harm if an attack should occur.

The shield of faith that Paul is writing about here in this passage must be used in the same manner. MacArthur in his Bible commentary references this "Shield of Faith" as being a basic trust of God, of His Word and His promises. It is not in reference to the body of Christian doctrine as some believe. It is by wearing God's Word, His truth, His promises on our heart, soul and mind that we are able to protect ourself from the attacks of satans "fiery darts". A Proverbs 31 Woman has the kind of faith that enables her to live in this obedience. It's the kind if faith demonstrated by Abraham:

Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, ²¹ being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. ~ Romans 4:18-21 (NIV)

Abraham's obedience began his journey but it was his faith that kept him on course. So to for the Proverbs 31 Woman...her willful obedience begins her day and her faith leads her through each hour.

Obedience, faith and trust go hand in hand. It is a combination that allows us to rest in the knowledge that God is our shield. A Proverbs 31 Woman trust God's word as truth and by faith she knows He will provide for her needs. She trusts that God will protect her from the evil one and that He is with her and lives in her, even though she may not see Him. She believes that Christ's sacrifice paid the penalty for her sins, and reconciled her to God. Because of this she is drawn to obedience to Him, she desires for Him to be her everything. She knows that through faith she will have Christ's authority over evil powers and through faith she is protected.

Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to my soul, "I am your salvation."... Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation [yes, Yeshua again]. ~ Ps. 35:1-3, 9 (NIV)

We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. ~Ps. 33:20 (NIV)

"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in Him." ~ Prov. 30:5 (NIV)

“Everything is possible for one who believes.” ~ Mark 9:23 (NIV)

His protection enables her to overcome, to be conquers against satan, against weaknesses, and against past failures:

"...because whatever has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith. And who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" ~ 1 John 5:4-5 (NCSB)

The "Shield of Faith" becomes her testimony in God:

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
~1 Tim. 6:12 (NIV)

Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith..." ` Heb 12:1-2a (HCSB)

There are so many more examples of common people, people just like you and I who were able to walk their faith in obedience to God, and carry the "Shield of Faith". This week, spend each day looking at Hebrews 11 which is called the "Walk of Faith" chapter. On a piece of paper or in your journal make three columns. In the first column reference each person identified in these verses. In the second column identify each action that measured their walk of faith. I encourage you to go back to the scripture that talks about their life and record how they were able to "take up the Shield of Faith". Then in the third column record any practical steps you can take from their example to apply to your own life in taking up the "Shield of Faith".

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
~ 1 Peter 1:6-7 (NIV)

Keep your eyes on Jesus this week friend. Stay in His word. Pray continually. Dwell with Him. Carry that "Shield of Faith"!!

Believing Him~Pamela

The Proverbs 31 Journey: Acceptable to God

Memory/Meditation verse: Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the Lord are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. ~ Hosea 14:9 (NLT)

We continue this journey with the Proverbs 31 Woman. Again, refresh yourself with her here. We are on week #3 as we related her to a warrior and Ephesians 6. I know I haven't taken these items in the order that you would normally put them on, God's leading has flowed differently. I also know most of you have studied Ephesians 6 since your early days in Sunday school but make every effort to seek a fresh look from a Proverbs 31 Woman perspective.

So far we have explored the Belt of Truth and the Sandals of Peace. This week, we will explore the Breastplate of Righteousness. You can also find reference to the breastplate of Righteousness in Isaiah 59:17 and 1 Thess. 5:8. Its a heavy topic but so necessary for a woman of God if she wants to honor and reverently serve Him. Re-read Ephesians 6: 11-18 (NLT):

Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

The Breastplate of Righteousness is a shield that covers the front of the body from the shoulders down to the upper thighs and extended partially around the back of the body. The breastplate protect the vital organs, most importantly the heart and soul of the person wearing it. So too does the Breastplate of Righteousness protects the heart and soul of the Proverbs 31 Woman.

The Breastplate of Righteousness represents the righteousness of Christ obtained when in His great love for us He shed His blood for our redemption. The Breastplate of Righteousness also represents the righteousness we can have in Christ. The Greek word used here in the passage for righteousness is dikaiosune (Strong's 1343). It is referring to "a state of man who is as he ought to be which is being in a condition acceptable to God" (Crosswalk.com).

To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

~ Prov. 21:3 (NIV)

Acceptable to God. This is were I feel we should land this week. What makes a woman acceptable to God? A state of living in integrity, virtue, purity of life? Yes. It involves thinking, feeling and acting as He would want us to. That is the daily state a Proverbs 31 woman thrives for-seeking to live a holy and acceptable life. It requires a sincere love relationship, a falling in love with Jesus.

But in every nation he who venerates and has a reverential fear for God, treating Him with worshipful obedience and living uprightly, is acceptable to Him and sure of being received and welcomed [by Him]. ~ Acts 10:35 (Amplified)

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. ² And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. ~ Rom 12:1-2 (NKJV)

Obedience...acceptable to God. Not an easy task is it? We try, we fail, we try again because we love Him, we want more of Him, to see Him, and hear Him and walk beside Him. Our human nature is to live selfishly, to be more concerned about our day and what we gain from it. We know the only perfect and righteous One is Christ and that His blood on the cross of Calvary became a portal, a pathway to our own becoming righteous...becoming like Him. We have to crave it more than anything else in our life. Less of me, more of Him...

What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death... ~ Phil 3:8-10 (NIV)

It is possible to become like Him, righteous but not greater than God or anyone else. It is possible to live a life of purity and integrity It is possible to obtain a life of virtuous living. Yes, despite this world, it can only be done through Christ in our lives.

Since all have sinned and are falling short of the honor and glory which God bestows and receives. [All] are justified and made upright and in right standing with God, freely and gratuitously by His grace (His unmerited favor and mercy), through the redemption which is [provided] in Christ Jesus,Whom God put forward before the eyes of all] as a mercy seat and propitiation by His blood [the cleansing and life-giving sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation, to be received] through faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in His divine forbearance He had passed over and ignored former sins without punishment. ~ Rom. 3:23-25 (Amplified)

And this is where the Breastplate of Righteousness comes in. We cannot live outside of our sinful inclinations without protecting our heart, our mind, even our flesh without first accepting God's love and forgiveness. Our love for God and our faith in Him is the action that puts this Breastplate of Righteousness on.

I have been crucified with Christ [in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ (the Messiah) lives in me; and the life I now live in the body I live by faith in (by adherence to and reliance on and complete trust in) the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself up for me. ~ Gal 2:20-21 (Amplified)

I need to say this again...the Breastplateof Righteousness put on by love and faith serves to protect our heart, our mind, our soul...even our flesh. The power of Christ blood in the Breastplate of Righteousness leaves satan no room to exploit in our life. Hear me here...it is the link that connects us to God's power, the power we use each minute of our day to live in a manner that is acceptable to Him.

Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied! ~ Matt. 5:6 (Amplified)

Putting on the Breastplate of Righteousness each day is an act of obedience. It is a living out of our faith in word, action and thought.

I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness. ~ Rom. 6:19 (NIV)

Putting on the Breastplate of Righteousness leads us to this holy living we crave.

The LORD will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the LORD your God and walk in obedience to Him.
~ Deut 28:9 (NIV)

Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” He sets aside the first to establish the second. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.~ Heb 10:9-10 (NIV)

As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy. ~ 1 Peter 1:14-16 (NIV)

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. ~ 2 Tim. 1:9-10 (NIV)

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. 1 Thess. 3: 12-13 (NIV)

The Breastplate of Righteousness put on by love and faith which guides us to live a holy life also enables us to live a life loving others as Christ does...even the unlovable. Combining faith, holy living and love is like a finish on this breastplate that makes it even stronger.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. ~ Col 3:12-14 (NIV)

This week, look at the benefits of holy and righteous living in the following verses. Grow your love relationship and your faith with your Lord. Pray these verses for yourself. Act on them.

Proverbs 11:6
Proverbs 21:21
Isaiah 32:17
Ephesians 4:22-24
1 Samuel 26:23
Job 17: 9
Psalm 1:6
Psalm 5:2
Psalm 34:15
Psalm 34:19
Psalm 85:10
Psalm 146:8
Isaiah 58:8

Father, our Holy and Sovereign God, give us spiritual wisdom and insight so that we might grow in our knowledge of You. We pray that our hearts will be flooded with light so that we can understand the confident hope you have given to those You have called—You holy people who are Your rich and glorious inheritance. We also pray that we will understand the incredible greatness of Your power for us who believe in You, for us who love you. May this same mighty power that raised Christ, your son, from the dead and seated Him in the place of honor at your right hand in the heavenly realms, lead me to righteousness (Eph 1:17-20, NLT). Precious Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer (Ps 19:14, NKJV). I love you, I want to love you more. ~ Amen

Believing Him~Pamela

The Proverbs 31 Journey: Sandals of Peace

Memory/Meditation verse: Her ways [wisdom] are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed. ~ Prov. 3: 17-18 (HCSB)

We continue our journey discovering the make-up of the Proverbs 31 Woman that makes her so beautiful externally and internally. In the last post we started looking at Ephesians 6 and correlating this with the woman who seeks to follow God with all her heart and mind and how she must prepare herself for each day by wearing the armor of God. Review our passage from Ephesians 6:

¹¹ Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. ¹² For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. ¹⁵ For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. ¹⁶ In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. ¹⁷ Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

¹⁸ Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

In the last post we discovered the Belt of truth, a required garment for godly living. We learned that to be in God's word, to live it out and to put it to heart is a sanctifying process that sets us apart. To wear the Belt of Truth protects us against the fiery arrows of satans attacks. It enables us to stand strong in what God has called us to.

This week, lets look at another piece of armor we need to wear to be a Proverbs 31 Woman: the Sandal of Peace (as I will call it) as recorded in verse 15. Read it in the Amplified version:

And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace.

What was Paul implying with this analogy of this Sandal of Peace? I believe that Paul is referencing a peace that result from a spiritual covering of stability in Christ. A stability of spiritual wisdom that readies us for the battles we will live through and through the circumstances that will pull at us. This peace is a gift that come from Christ and the cross.

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. ~ Isa 53:5 (NIV)

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God" ~ Romans 5:1-2 (NIV).

"...and through Him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross". ~ Colossians 1:20 (NIV)

Peace, wrapped in the form of shoes? Think about it. There are so many different types of shoes we wear-tennis shoes to run in, sandals for leisure, work shoes or boots. So too can peace come in many forms. Shoes also offer several benefits: protection, support, traction, performance, and comfort. So to can peace offer or come from Gods protection, support, traction, performance, and comfort. Sandals of Peace become a weapon in our godly walk as a Proverbs 31 Woman!

This week, take each of these benefits and meditate on them. Pray them for your own life. Engrave them into your heart, mind and soul. Ready yourself, prepare yourself, stabilized yourself...

Monday: Protection
The peace of God comes from knowing and living in His Word. Knowing and living in the instruction of Christ yields a peace that can way far more than anything this world can offer. It is the kind of peace that protects and keep the Proverbs 31 woman from stumbling.

Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. ~ Ps. 119:165

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Phil 4:7 (NIV)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33 (NIV)

Tuesday: Support & Traction
This kind of peace supports and strengths your heart. No matter what the Proverbs 31 Woman faces, He is her traction. She knows in putting on the Sandals of Peace each morning, she is ready for the race ahead of her. He will lead her.

In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling. ~ Exodus 15:13 (NIV)

It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.
2 Sam. 22:33 (NIV)

"...Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you. ~ Isa. 54:10 (NIV)

For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God?
It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights. ~ Ps. 18: 31-33 (NIV)

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. ~ Ps. 28:7 (NIV)

Wednesday: Security
His peace is her security. He is her security. She chooses to put on the Sandals of Peace as a way of committing and clinging to His promises.

I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely. ~ Ps. 63:8 (NLT)

For the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. ~ Prov. 3:26 (NLT)

Those who fear the Lord are secure; [she] will be a refuge for their children. ~ Prov. 14:26 (NLT)

We know that God’s children do not make a practice of sinning, for God’s Son holds them securely, and the evil one cannot touch them. ~ 1John 5:18 (NIV)

“Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between His shoulders.” ~ Deut. 33:12 (NIV)

LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure.~ Ps. 16:5 (NIV)

Thursday: Performance
It is the peace behind her everyday living. She invites Him into her day and continually seeks Him. He is her power, her drive. He is her motivation.

For God watches how people live; he sees everything they do. ~Job 34:21 (NLT)

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. ~ Ps. 91:1 (NLT)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ Rom. 15:13 (NIV)

13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. ¹⁴ For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, ¹⁵ by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, ¹⁶ and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. ¹⁷ He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. ¹⁸ For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. ¹⁹ Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, ²⁰ built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. ²¹ In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. ²² And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
~ Eph 2

Friday: Comfort

His peace is her comfort. In the good times and bad, she finds comfort in His love, His grace and his mercy. She doesn't keep His comfort to herself but extends to others who cross her path.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. ~ Ps. 23:4 (NIV)

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
~ 2 Cor. 1:4

Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant.
Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight. ~ Ps. 119: 76-77 (NLT)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. ~ John 14:27 (NIV)

The Proverbs 31 Woman has to dress for battle each morning. Satan knows her heart belongs to God and knows she can be dangerous against satan as she serves her master and Lord. In putting on the Belt of Truth and the Sandals of Peace, she is that much more stronger in Christ.

I leave with you this week with the words of Jesus from John 20:21 :“Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” As you seek His peace, put on again the Belt of Truth and slip into the Sandal of Peace each morning. Be His warrior and be His maidservant. Be a woman after His own heart.

Believing Him~Pamela

Proverbs 31 Journey: The Belt of Truth

Meditation/Memory Verse: Teach me Your way, O Lord, that I may walk and live in Your truth; direct and unite my heart [solely, reverently] to fear and honor Your name. ~ Ps 86:11 (Amplified)

With graduations and work issues, I had to take a week away from this study. As I was waiting on God to stir my heart towards this next subject of the Proverbs 31 Woman, the 22nd verse from Proverbs 31 stirred me. Then a message last week from a pastor lead me to write these words. For the next few weeks lets look at the internal make-up of this woman and what made her outward appearances so beautiful.

She makes her own bed coverings, her clothing is fine linen and purple. ~ Prov 31:22 (HCSB)

At first my thoughts of this verse above brought to mind my mother. She is someone who can and will sew anything from bed coverings to my dads suits. I however do not follow in her pursuit of this talent. There are many women like me who would stumble getting around the sewing machine. But I felt God's whisper that this is not the message He wanted me to pull from this verse. I felt Him say to me as I listen to that sermon this past week that the clothing here goes much deeper than the linen itself or the talent to put it together for a covering.

She makes for herself coverlets, cushions, and rugs of tapestry. Her clothing is of linen, pure and fine, and of purple [such as that of which the clothing of the priests and the hallowed cloths of the temple were made]. ~Amplified version

In Biblical time purple was reserved for royalty. As a daughter of the King we would fall into that category. We are His holy maidservants, chosen to be the aroma of Christ in this world we live in. Remember a memory verse from a few weeks past....

But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.~ 2 Cor 2:14-15 (NIV)

As royalty to the kingdom of God, we cover ourselves with the coverings God has given us and we intentionally follow his purpose...

But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments to do His work and speak out for Him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference He made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted. ~ 1 Peter 2:9 (Message)

This woman of Proverbs 31 was not about being a fashion statement, she was about being a woman of God. She knew each morning before her feet hit the floor she would have to determine her course. Not knowing what laid ahead of her, she would determine in her heart and mind to say yes to God. Intentionally she would gird her body, mind and spirit to be ready for the day.

For the next few weeks, we will look at the Proverbs 31 Woman from the verses found in Ephesians 6:

¹¹ Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. ¹² For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. ¹⁵ For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. ¹⁶ In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. ¹⁷ Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

¹⁸ Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

Remember that Proverbs 31:10 in several translations defines her as "noble". A noble woman is strong, a woman of high birth who possessing outstanding qualities and character. I heard a preacher reference her once as "brave, a warrior for her God and her home". She is clothed with Christ.

The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. ~ Romans 13:12-14

She is a woman who is not about herself but a woman who can take the message of Ephesians 6 and literally dress in it. This week, lets look at the first garment she is required to wear--the belt of Truth. Soldiers in Paul's day wore belts to secure their clothing and hold weapons. The belt of truth found in Ephesians 6 has similar but expanded functions for spiritual living . This belt of truth allows for the action of daily sanctification. The belt of Truth is God's Word and by wearing God's Word we are being sanctified. To sanctify means to set apart for a special purpose, to purify. This belt of Truth will help us stay on mission for God and avoid falling back into sin's grip. This belt of truth will set us apart from people who don't follow God. Jesus, being set apart, prayed that God would sanctify us by the truth, His Father's word:

"Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth!" ~ John 17:17.

Another action of the belt of Truth is that it is our guide. The Holy Spirit uses His truth to guide us in whatever circumstances we're in. Just as communication is crucial on the physical battlefield of our lives, so is the Holy Spirit's guidance of Truth in the spiritual battlefields we encounter.

"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come" ~John 16:13 (NIV).

The belt of Truth will also arm us with discernment. How we interpret a situation can play a critical role in the outcome of our actions and words. God's word reveals truth that helps us decisively recognize the devil's lies that can lead us in spiritual conflicts. Armed with the truth of the Word, we'll recognize the devil's lies for what they are.

^"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." ~ Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

The belt of Truth makes us ready. Our belt can become corrupted by the sin we commit and tolerate in our lives. Memorizing and knowing scripture becomes our main weapon. The belt of Truth enables us to move quickly and confidently without tripping into lies and losing focus of what God has intended for us, His royal daughters.

Study it, speak it, and live it!

To keep our belt of truth in great shape, we keep our hearts pliable and obedient to God by clinging to his Word.

Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other. ~ Deut 4:39 (NIV)

When we put on the belt of Truth, we acknowledge His sovereignty, love, wisdom, and holiness. So this week, our assignment is simple. Before you even allow your feet to hit the floor, before you even grab that first cup of coffee or brush your teeth, choose to put on the belt of Truth. Choose to believe that God is who He says He is and He is in control of this day. Choose to be a Jesus girl, to be willing to say "Yes Lord" before you even know what lies ahead. Lay a belt out so that it is the first thing you see each morning when you awaken to remind you of this truth. Post throughout your home and car these verses below. Meditate on them. Believe them.

He will wear righteousness like a belt and truth like an undergarment. ~Isa 11:5

I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. ~ Ps 18:1-2

Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. ~ Ps 25:5

Send out your light and your truth;let them guide me.Let them lead me to your holy mountain,to the place where you live. ~ Ps. 43:3

You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope. ~ Ps 119:114

Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. ~ Col. 2:7

Grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ—the Son of the Father—will continue to be with us who live in truth and love. ~ 2 John 1:3

For the Lamb on the throne will be their Shepherd.He will lead them to springs of life-giving water.And God will wipe every tear from their eyes.” ~ Rev. 7:17

God's armor brings victory because it is far more than a protective covering. It is the very life of Jesus Christ himself. The Proverbs 31 Woman believes in the TRUTH. Because of this, God's reveals to her all that He is, all that He has done, and all that He promises to do for her in the days ahead. She abides in Him.

"I am the vine; you are the branches," said Jesus. "If a man abides in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)

Thank you, my Lord, for showing me the TRUTH about Yourself, Your plans and Your ways. Help me to abide in You, truly abide in You. Thank You for reminding me that You are the only God, the Creator of heaven and earth. I thank you for the Truth that You are the King of the universe, my Father who loves me, and my Shepherd who leads me. You are my wisdom, my counselor, my hope, and my strength. You are everything I need each day. I choose to wear this belt of Truth so I can reflect You in this world. ~ Amen

Believing Him~Pamela