Proverbs 31:21

Prov. 31:21 
She is not afraid of the snow for her household,
For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Afraid – Strong’s 3372 – ירא – yare’ = to fear, revere, be afraid; to be fearful, be dreadful, be feared; to make afraid, terrify

Why is the Proverbs 31 Woman not afraid?  Because she is prepared. No matter how severe the winter may be, her household is ready for it.  I’m not entirely certain why being clothed in scarlet provides a sense of security, but the point is that she has no reason to worry.

In a spiritual sense we should ask, what does her confidence really lie in? She may not be afraid for one of two reasons. Either her sense of security is in her own abilities or, having done all that she has been given to do, she trusts in the Lord for the outcome.

Does that mean that we should relax at our ease, do nothing, and assume that the Lord will take care of us in any disaster that comes our way? 

As we saw before, our spirituality is not based on our involvement with the church, but rather on the way we live our lives.  Women have specific God-given responsibilities for their families and homes.  This is in fact one of the most important ministries we are given.  This is the work that the Lord expects us to be doing.  It is not inferior or nonspiritual work, it is excellent work.

The Proverbs 31 Woman is praised because she reveres the Lord.

Two things please the Lord: our obedience,

He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him, and will disclose Myself to him.  John 14:21

and our faith.

Without faith it is impossible to please Him…… Heb. 11:6a

These are not opposites, but go hand in hand.  It is our faith which enables us to obey God’s Word, even when our circumstances, feelings, or the world prod us otherwise.  The Proverbs 31 Woman is an excellent example of faith and obedience working together. 

And it’s not without reward.

Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying;
“Many daughters have done nobly,
But you excel them all.”
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.  Prov. 31:28-31