What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:25? Strength and honor are her clothing Proverbs 31:25 opens with, “Strength and honor are her clothing.” The picture is of a woman so wrapped in godly character that virtue is what you notice first, the way you notice someone’s outfit when they walk into a room. • Strength here is moral and spiritual fortitude—an inner resolve empowered by God (see Ephesians 6:10; Psalm 18:32; Proverbs 31:17). • Honor (often rendered “dignity”) highlights a life ordered under God’s ways, producing a reputation marked by respect (1 Samuel 2:30; Romans 2:7). • Clothing suggests permanence and visibility. Unlike accessories that can be removed, these qualities are woven into her daily life (Colossians 3:12; 1 Peter 3:3-4). The verse teaches that true beauty is not skin-deep; it is the outworking of an obedient heart clothed in virtues that reflect Christ. She can laugh at the days to come The second half reads, “and she can laugh at the days to come.” This is not carefree irresponsibility but settled confidence in God’s sovereignty. • Laugh signifies calm joy, the opposite of fretful anxiety (Psalm 112:7; Philippians 4:4-7). • Days to come points to the unknown future—economic shifts, family needs, aging—yet she faces it with cheerful faith because her trust is anchored in the Lord (Matthew 6:25-34; Romans 8:31-39; 1 Peter 5:7). • Her preparedness flows from earlier verses: she plans, works diligently, and fears the LORD (Proverbs 31:21, 30). Because she walks in wisdom today, she meets tomorrow with unshakable peace. summary Proverbs 31:25 presents a woman whose life is wrapped in God-given strength and honor, virtues that shape every interaction. Those same qualities free her from fear of the future; instead of worry, she greets the unknown with joyful confidence. By clothing ourselves in Christlike character and trusting God’s faithful care, we too can stand strong and smile at whatever lies ahead. |