What We Can Learn from the Proverbs 31 Woman About Intentionality: How to Apply It to Our Lives
Scripture: Proverbs 31:15 (NIV)
“She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.”
Reflection:
The Proverbs 31 woman is widely regarded as a role model of wisdom, strength, and virtue. What often stands out about her is her intentionality—her ability to make deliberate choices and use her time, energy, and resources in ways that honor God and serve those around her. Whether she is managing her home, serving others, or planning for the future, the Proverbs 31 woman shows us how to live with purpose and direction. Intentional living is not a passive thing; it’s an active, conscious decision to align every area of our lives with God’s will and to make choices that reflect His heart.
As we reflect on her life, let’s consider the lessons we can learn about intentionality and how we can apply them in our own lives.
1. Intentionality in Managing Time
“She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family…” (Proverbs 31:15)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman is intentional with her time, waking early to prepare and provide for her family. This speaks to the importance of setting aside time for what matters most and investing energy in the areas that require attention. Her choice to rise early represents a proactive approach to managing her schedule and responsibilities, giving her the time needed to focus on her home, work, and relationships. Intentionality in managing time is essential for fulfilling God’s purposes in our lives.
Application: Reflect on how you use your time each day. Are there moments where you can wake up earlier or better organize your day to prioritize God, your family, and your responsibilities? Set aside time for what truly matters and seek God’s guidance to make each moment purposeful.
2. Intentionality in Serving Others
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” (Proverbs 31:20)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman is not only concerned with her own household but is intentional about reaching out to those in need. She demonstrates compassion and takes proactive steps to help those who are less fortunate. Her actions reflect God’s heart of generosity and kindness. Living intentionally means actively looking for ways to serve others and being willing to sacrifice our time and resources for their benefit. Serving with purpose brings light into the lives of others and glorifies God.
Application: Look around and identify at least one person or group who might need your help today. How can you serve them? Whether it’s a meal, a listening ear, or a kind gesture, be intentional about extending your kindness and help to others.
3. Intentionality in Relationships
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” (Proverbs 31:26)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman speaks intentionally. Her words are thoughtful, wise, and aimed at building others up. She doesn’t speak recklessly or thoughtlessly but uses her words to guide, encourage, and impart wisdom. She understands the power of words and uses them to make an impact in her relationships, whether with her husband, children, or others. In today’s world, being intentional with our words can build bridges, heal wounds, and bring hope.
Application: Think about your conversations today. How can you speak words that encourage, uplift, and bring wisdom? Be intentional in speaking life over your family, friends, and colleagues. Ask God for the wisdom to choose your words carefully.
4. Intentionality in Work and Purpose
“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.” (Proverbs 31:17)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman is diligent in her work. She doesn’t do her tasks half-heartedly but puts in her full effort, understanding that her work has purpose and meaning. She works with energy, focus, and passion because she sees her efforts as serving both her family and God. Her commitment to excellence in her work reflects the heart of God, who calls us to do everything with all our might (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
Application: In all that you do, approach your work with purpose. Whether you’re working at home or in a professional setting, commit to giving your best effort. Pray for strength and focus to complete your tasks with diligence and excellence.

5. Intentionality in Managing Resources
“She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.” (Proverbs 31:16)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman demonstrates financial wisdom and intentionality in how she uses her resources. She doesn’t make hasty decisions but takes time to assess situations and make choices that will benefit her family in the long run. She invests in opportunities that bear fruit, using her resources wisely and with foresight. Her ability to manage her finances and investments is rooted in her understanding of stewardship and the desire to provide for her loved ones.
Application: Take time today to reflect on how you are managing your resources—time, money, and energy. Are there areas where you can be more intentional? Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or investing in your future, make decisions that reflect God’s wisdom and trust Him with your resources.
6. Intentionality in Family and Home Life
“She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” (Proverbs 31:27)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman takes an active role in managing her home. She doesn’t let the responsibilities of her household slip away but remains alert and intentional in overseeing her family’s needs. She works hard to create a peaceful, well-run home where her family can thrive. This kind of intentionality requires focus, discipline, and the ability to plan and organize effectively. It’s about being present and engaged in your family’s life, creating an environment that nurtures and supports everyone.
Application: Think about the state of your home today. How can you be more intentional in managing your household? Whether it’s organizing your space, making meals, or spending quality time with your loved ones, seek God’s help to run your home with care and purpose.
7. Intentionality in Trusting God’s Plan
“She can laugh at the days to come.” (Proverbs 31:25)
Lesson: The Proverbs 31 woman is able to laugh at the future because she has complete trust in God’s plan. She’s intentional in her faith, trusting that no matter what comes her way, God has a plan for her life. She doesn’t worry about the future because she knows that God will provide and guide her steps. This confidence comes from a deep, intentional trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness.
Application: In moments of uncertainty, intentionally place your trust in God. Instead of worrying about the future, trust that He holds it in His hands. Let your faith lead you as you confidently move forward, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.
God’s Word for You Today:
Intentional living is about aligning your actions, words, and decisions with God’s will. The Proverbs 31 woman demonstrates that when we live intentionally, our lives become a beautiful reflection of God’s purpose and love. As you go about your day, choose to be intentional in how you manage your time, relationships, work, and resources, knowing that every choice is an opportunity to honor God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example of the Proverbs 31 woman. I pray that You would help me to live intentionally in every area of my life. Teach me how to prioritize my time, serve others with love, speak words of wisdom, and trust You with my future. May my life reflect Your grace and purpose, and may I bring glory to You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Action Step:
Take time today to reflect on one area of your life where you can be more intentional. Whether it’s your relationships, work, or home management, choose to make a change that aligns with God’s will. Ask Him to guide your steps and empower you to live with purpose, bringing honor to Him in all that you do.
With love, Grace