The Proverbs 31 Woman’s Guide to Health: Caring for Your Body as a Temple

When we think of the Proverbs 31 woman, we often picture a woman of strength, wisdom, and diligence. She is a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and servant of the Lord. But one thing that often gets overlooked is how she cares for herself so that she can serve others effectively. Proverbs 31:17 says, “She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong.” This tells us that part of her God-honoring life includes physical well-being.

As Christian women, we are called to honor God with our bodies. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are to glorify God in them. This means that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s an act of stewardship. If we neglect our health, we limit our ability to serve our families, our communities, and the Lord with the energy and vitality He intends for us.

Strength for the Tasks Ahead

The Proverbs 31 woman “sets about her work vigorously” (Proverbs 31:17). This tells me she has the strength and endurance to fulfill her calling. That strength doesn’t come by accident—it requires intentionality. Regular movement, whether it’s strength training, walking, or stretching, is a way we prepare ourselves for the good works God has planned for us.

For me, this means making fitness a priority. I don’t train to fit a worldly standard of beauty, but to be strong enough to serve. Whether it’s playing with my kids, carrying groceries, or standing for long hours teaching, my body needs to be capable of the work God has given me.

Fueling with Wisdom

Proverbs 31:14-15 describes a woman who seeks out food for her household and ensures they are well-fed. This wisdom extends to how we nourish our own bodies. A diet filled with whole, nourishing foods gives us the energy and clarity to pursue God’s calling on our lives.

I have found that meal planning helps me stay on track. By preparing nutritious meals in advance, I’m able to fuel my body with what it needs rather than grabbing unhealthy, convenience-based options. I aim to eat in a way that supports my strength and longevity, rather than one that is driven by cravings or trends.

Rest as Worship

“She rises while it is still night…” (Proverbs 31:15), but she also knows when to rest. So many of us push ourselves to exhaustion, forgetting that God designed us for rhythms of work and rest. Even Jesus took time to withdraw and refresh (Mark 6:31). Rest isn’t laziness—it’s a biblical principle. Prioritizing sleep, managing stress, and taking Sabbath rest are all ways we honor God with our bodies.

A Heart That Trusts

Finally, the Proverbs 31 woman is not anxious about the future; she laughs at the days to come (Proverbs 31:25). This speaks to both her faith and her well-being. Anxiety and stress take a toll on our health, but when we surrender our worries to the Lord, we walk in peace and strength.