Scripture
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20 (NIV)

We use our hands to grasp onto things: our dog trying to make their great escape at the park, that first mug of caffeinated happiness each morning and the one thing we can never seem to grasp enough of—time. This verse in Proverbs paints a much different picture of how we should live, though. We see a woman who isn’t clinging to things, but instead, extending a helping hand to others.

When we study the Proverbs 31 woman, it’s important to note that she serves with open arms: an extension of herself always ready to help. So, what might that look like in your life? Maybe you are a whiz at organization, so you spend Wednesday mornings teaching young mothers how to find a little balance—and their car keys—when life feels out of control. Perhaps you are known for your kind thank you notes and can teach high schoolers the importance of showing gratitude with hand-written letters after job interviews. Is prayer your gift? That is something you can do in a quiet place, while holding the hand of someone experiencing grief or teaching others who need help finding conversation starters with God.

Women are compassionate nurturers. Giving, serving and teaching is an extension of God’s love that shows people you care—He cares—and that they are not alone.

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