One of my favorite chapters in scripture is Proverbs 31, that of the virtuous woman. Since I was a teenager, I’ve had a desire to be similar to that woman Solomon talks about.

Each verse in the chapter lists task after task that the virtuous woman does, from taking care of her children and husband to helping out the poor and those in need, not to mention making and selling fine linens, speaking with wisdom and kindness, and having strength and honor for her clothing.

Reading this chapter as an adult, I still desire to be that virtuous woman — within boundaries. I am very independent and fully believe in both indoor and outdoor household chores being evenly divided between my husband and myself, which is very different than how it was and is with a lot of women in my life, who tend to take on everything themselves.

Even if their husbands are wonderful, helpful men, wives and mothers generally handle the brunt of household tasks, taking care of their families as well as — increasingly often these days — working a full-time job. The wife is the engine of her family, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

The majority of my personal training clients are women between the ages of 40 and 65. I believe that’s a result of a generational trend where they never put themselves first, rather taking care of others in their formative years. Now that their kids are grown and away at college or married, my clients realize that they now have the freedom to start to actually take care of themselves. In many cases, taking care of themselves is a necessity so that they are healthy enough to enjoy being grandmas now or down the road.

I love helping women become physically strong, giving them the confidence to do a variety of exercises or activities they didn’t previously think possible. It’s important for them to show their kids how being healthy is one of life’s priorities. But it’s also just as — more — important to be strong in the Lord, to set the example in our families that God comes first, and demonstrating that in our daily lives.

So, since I give you “homework” at the conclusion of each of my columns, I urge you to set the example with your kids. Show them how they need to be physically healthy and strong in order to respect the body God gave them, but they also need to be strong in trusting in the Lord. Whether it’s being well-versed in scripture, never hesitating to testify, or being active in your branch or mission, there are plenty of ways to build spiritual strength.

Dare to Share Verse of the Day

1 Thes. 5:18 – In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.