World, may I strongly caution you (or at least ask that you be mindful) of the lions?
Not the kind of lions that typically come to mind; you know the prestigious male lion with the gorgeous flowing mane, intimidating presence and booming roar.
No, the lions I speak of are the lionesses, the female lion that is compact, sleek, stealth with cunning purpose and power.
The lioness is vital for the welfare of her pride (family)- much of their survival & success are dependent upon her. While the male lion patrols to guard and defend against intruders, the lioness is responsible for taking care of her family. She makes sure their bellies are full, she is an expert at multi-tasking, she uses resources to their fullest extent including the help of others, she is cunning and efficient, she relies upon her brains and instincts to get things done, she is patient and determined. She is brave and an excellent nurturer- willing to sacrifice for her family.
Excellent ethology lesson, but why should we be mindful of lions? It’s not like we encounter them every day, right?
Oh, but we do!
Lion encounters happen daily- just in an unexpected form….
Women- particularly wives and mothers.
This analogy of the lion came to me years ago after my cherished grandmother died. I struggled with grief and wrote a eulogy that captured her “lioness essence,” here’s an excerpt:
"I believe the best way to describe her…. Close your eyes and picture a lioness- a beautiful creature, strong, powerful, unwavering in her tireless pursuit to protect and provide. She is the matriarch; caring for all that belong within her pride-caring for the young and the old up until she is just too weak to continue. We will all feel the void left by the passing of our matriarch- our irreplaceable wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother."
There was no doubt my grandmother was a fierce lioness.
I cautioned you last week on “death to husbands” because of the powerful role husbands play in marriage; I would be remiss if I didn’t warn you of the equally powerful role wives play, not only in marriage but, in our homes.
Yes, ladies, we have our hands full!
The best example we can find in Scripture that speaks to this role of a lioness can be found in the book of Proverbs- the famous Proverbs 31 woman.
I would challenge you to read the scripture for yourself- https://bit.ly/1zUdsJb
Honestly, I feel exhausted and inferior just reading it!
But, let’s not lose hope- as we can achieve this lioness state.
According to the collective Erin Smalley, Dr. Tony Evans and Chrystal Evans Hurst-
The Proverbs 31 woman (lioness) possesses the following:
Wasn't a woman who worked strictly in her home with her children.
Didn't remain silent when she had an opinion.
Wasn't weak and passive in her presentation.
Didn't refrain from making her mark on the world.
She honored and respected her husband.
She fed and clothed her family with the best she could afford.
She invested the use of her skills in all pursuits- including business.
She spoke wisely and kindly to others.
She dressed attractively and took the time to invest in her well-being.
She was generous and helped the poor.
Wives, I want to encourage you to strive to become a lioness. To love your husband and family with sincere and undivided devotion; honor and respect your husband as God commands. Submit to your husband out of reverence for the Lord and be a woman that your family can trust.
Pray for your family (to include your husband) daily! Be an encourager in your home and strive to be a helper to your husband, remembering that you are a team. Endeavor to take time for yourself to renew and refresh- your family needs a healthy and happy lioness. Be brave and believe the best for your family and ask God to reveal any weaknesses or blind spots in your life; especially when the ability to extend kindness and patience is required. Ultimately, your family is a blessing and gift from God- be thankful.
Remember, God created you and equipped you to be more than capable- we are women- hear us roar - now rise and walk with your King!
Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her- thank you, Father!
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
~Proverbs 31:28-31