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By Stacey Tolbert

A woman’s steps to health in the Bible are often overlooked. God cares about our health on all levels – mental, emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual. I’ve discovered six steps to health that I want to share with you today.

God Cares About our Health

Do any of these statements describe you over the past month?

• I feel exhausted and unhappy. 
• My house is a disaster.
• My husband and I are not connecting emotionally or sexually. 
• I often say “No, I’m busy,” when my children ask to spend time with me.  

I have felt every single one of these realities.  With young children, you will have days when you are tired, you could care less about a messy house, and sex is the last thing on your mind. There will be seasons when your children are more unhappy than not. 

When these difficult seasons become long-term patterns in your life, this is not God’s best for you. How can you step out of these unhealthy patterns and begin to feel a sense of peace and contentment? 

Tips from the Proverbs 31 Woman

The description of the Proverbs 31 woman in the Bible has often been used to manipulate women into fitting an unhealthy standard when verses are taken out of context. However, this proverb is a letter from a mother to her son, King Lemuel, on what qualities to look for in a wife.   

The Proverbs 31 woman has good character, brings good to her family, is wise in making financial decisions, and cares for the poor.  Most importantly, she fears the Lord and trusts in His power. How does this woman manage all these tasks with laughter and strength, instead of feeling exhausted and overwhelmed? There is nothing in these verses about increasing energy or how to improve your sex life. What could we possibly learn from her?

Six Biblical Steps To Health in the Bible

The Scriptures outline six steps to health through the example of the Proverbs 31 woman. The outcome of her faithfulness includes a husband and children who praise her and a community that honors her.  

1. Fear the Lord

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” – Proverbs 31:30 NIV

Fear is used over 300 times in the Bible to describe our relationship with God. It is most often coupled with blessing – so great is his love for those who fear him, he fulfills the desires of those who fear him. To fear God means to acknowledge God’s power and holiness and seek his plan for our lives.  

2. Prepare

“She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.” – Proverbs 31:15 NIV

This is not pointing to the need to wake up at 3:00 am to make lunch every morning. The principle here is thinking ahead and being prepared for the day. In doing this, you help establish a calm presence as you and your family get ready for the day.

3. Plan and consider

“She considers a field and buys it.” – Proverbs 31:16a NIV 

Think about what is best before jumping into a project. Talk to your husband before agreeing to join a committee. Most of all, ask God if it is in his plan for you.

4. Commit

“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.” – Proverbs 31:17 NIV

Work hard and follow through with your responsibilities. Keep the commitments you have made. If you find you are unable to do so, you may need to let something go.

5. Trust

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” – Proverbs 31:25 NIV

When your trust is in God, you do not have to be afraid of what is to come or anxious. Around 25% of women experience anxiety, which often stems from feeling out of control. When we recognize that God is in control, we can release our anxiety and rest in knowing God will take care of us and our concerns.

6. Be Intentional

“She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”  – Proverbs 31:27 NIV 

Anyone feel convicted about scrolling social media? I do! Are you able to give your heart to your children and your husband without being overly distracted? Let God help you turn this around by being more intentional.

Consider one of these areas that will help you live a healthier lifestyle. What might be in the way of reaching goals in this area?

Wife Step: Choose one of these six steps to practice this week and ask God to help you choose health through it.

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