Growing in Confidence and Character

God’s strength in us produces confidence that isn’t loud, rushed, or anxious.

I get it.

You’re a woman over 40, navigating midlife and all that comes with it—changing roles, responsibilities, expectations, and seasons that don’t always feel easy to carry.

There are days when facing it all feels overwhelming. I have those days too. But when I turn to the Word of God, I’m reminded of this truth: God designed us to be women of strength and dignity.

And no—I’m not asking you to add more to your already full plate.

What I want you to hear is this:
You were created for this season, for this moment in history, to walk in strength and carry yourself with dignity.

Even here. Even now.

A Note About Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 can feel intimidating—especially for women who are single or single again. Many translations use the word wife, but the original language also allows for woman.

This chapter is for all women, regardless of relationship status.

 

What Does It Mean to Grow in Strength?

First, we must understand where our strength comes from.

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
— Nehemiah 8:10

True strength is not self-sufficiency. It’s dependence on God.

Jesus reminds us of this in John 15:5:

“I am the vine; you are the branches… apart from Me you can do nothing.”

The joy we often long for is found when we surrender our plans and rest in His strength. When we abide in Him, we are at our strongest.

Proverbs 31:17 describes this woman beautifully:
“She draws on her strength and reveals that her arms are strong.”

This strength is intentional. Just as we wear specific clothing for physical work, Scripture reminds us that spiritual strength requires preparation.

 

Clothed for Strength

For us as New Testament women:

  • “Gird up the loins of your mind…” (1 Peter 1:13)
  • “Stand firm… with the belt of truth.” (Ephesians 6:14)
  • “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)

God’s Word is truth and being grounded in it shapes how we think, live, and respond.

You might like: Rooted & Established in Love: 3 Steps to Spiritual Growth

Strength Grows Through Spiritual Discipline

When we choose to grow spiritually, we establish rhythms that sustain us.

Bible reading.
Prayer.
Worship.

These are not burdens—they are the disciplines that help us walk in strength and dignity, especially when life feels complicated or confusing.

👉 Get your FREE 31-Day Bible Reading Plan
A simple way to grow in love, joy, and peace.

 

Defining Dignity for the Modern Proverbs 31 Woman

Dignity isn’t about status, appearance, or success.

It’s about how we carry ourselves through trials and adversity.

Proverbs 31:25 tells us:
“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the days to come.”

Her confidence comes from preparation—spiritual preparation. These virtues are visible because they’ve been formed over time.

Her dignity wasn’t earned through achievement.
She became this woman through reverence and worship of the Lord.

You might like: Embracing the Modern Proverbs 31 Woman’s Morning Ritual

A New Year Perspective

As a new year begins, many people focus on resolutions and accomplishments.

But what if we asked a different question?

Who do I want to become?

 

Simple Ways to Grow in Strength & Dignity

  1. Rest in your identity in Christ (read Ephesians 1).
  2. Abide in God’s Word—choose a Bible reading plan and begin today.
  3. Make space for prayer and reflection.

👉 Get your FREE 31-Day Bible Reading Plan

 

Your Turn

  • Where am I relying on my own strength?
  • What does dignity look like in this season of my life?
  • How am I prioritizing my spiritual growth?

 

A Prayer for You

(Ephesians 3:16–19 NIV)

I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being…