Classic KJV - Proverbs 31:30

Super power does not from “self-improvement,” an obsession with oneself. In fact, the “Me-me-me” world of self-improvement programs, not anchored in God, inevitably becomes a “Me-me-me” of disappointment, frustration, and resentment.

Smoke in Mirrors

Charm is deceitful. Many women are charming; some even go to a “finishing school” to learn how to sell their charm. The word “charm” is sometimes used to mean a lucky charm, like it’s some sort of talisman with magical power. But charm—acting in ways to please others—is not in itself the problem. Rather, the rest of us can take the gracious behavior of another as a sign of their real affection and concern for us, when it may be just a pleasant mask. The worst type of liar is the charming liar. And the longer we’re duped, it becomes harder to see that we’re being used—flattered or seduced.

Withering Beauty

Similarly, physical beauty is vain. Beauty is only skin deep. Shallow. Transient. In a few years, the beauty queen will be old, wrinkled or inflated with plastic-looking Botox. According to this proverb, ironically, the woman who focuses on herself, camouflaging with cosmetics and developing her social patter, will neglect her Maker and eventually display the ugliness of her soul. On the other hand, the woman focused on inner beauty will gain lasting satisfaction. Paradoxically, this inner glow comes from having the right kind of fear.

The Right Fear

What is it? She fears the LORD. Great success comes from having the right fear. Instead of asking, "From where does Superwoman get her super powers?" we should ask, "From whom does Superwoman get her super powers?" The short answer is "The LORD." But why, you may ask, should she or anyone else fear the LORD?

What is the fear of the LORD? It’s more than just the right fear, it’s actually a life-giving fear. It’s available to men, women and children. Learn more about it by studying Proverbs 15:16: How much is enough?

Our Maker, Saviour, and Friend

Jesus is not a force, but a life giving spirit (1 Corinthians 15:45).

His appeal is not transitory, like skin-deep beauty, nor is He unreliable, like someone who appears charming, but who is really selfish.

The Holy Spirit gives supernatural power to all who fear the LORD. The Lord Jesus Christ can make any woman into a superwoman, but note carefully: her strength and abilities come from God alone, for Jesus told all his disciples that, without Him, they could do nothing (John 15:5).