A Woman of Dignity Is Always Respected(Proverbs 11:16, ESV)

This message is part of special teachings about the character and honor of women according to Scripture.

Proverbs 11:16 (ESV)
“A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.”

This verse highlights that a woman’s dignity and grace lead to lasting respect. It’s not about outward appearance or wealth, but about inner character. This teaching is for you whether you are a daughter or a mother who desires respect from both God and people.

Understanding Respect

Respect is something that must be earned and preserved. It is not automatically granted by beauty, education, wealth, or social status. Instead, respect is rooted in your inner value the qualities God cultivates in you and which others recognize.

Why is respect hard to gain? Because it costs sacrifice, discipline, and commitment to godly living.
What is true respect? It is esteem based on moral integrity and reverence for God.

What Truly Brings Respect?

Many young women mistakenly believe that outward beauty or fashion such as makeup, wigs, and revealing clothing gives them honor. But the Bible warns against valuing external appearance over internal character.

1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV) says, “The LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”
This means God values your heart and spirit far more than your physical looks.

Proverbs 31:30 (ESV) reminds us, “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”

Trying to gain respect by showing off the body or flashy fashion may attract attention, but it invites judgment and disrespect, not true honor.

Biblical Qualities That Earn Respect

The Bible highlights seven key qualities in women that lead to lasting respect:

Fear of the Lord
Reverence and trust in God form the foundation of a woman’s character (Proverbs 31:30).
Good Manners (Decency)
Proper behavior reflects self-respect and honors others (1 Timothy 2:9).
Gentleness
Strength under control, showing kindness and humility (1 Peter 3:3-4).
Moderation
Avoiding excess in behavior and appearance (Titus 2:3-5).
Calmness
Maintaining peace and tranquility in spirit (1 Timothy 2:11).
Self-Control
Discipline in thoughts, words, and actions (Galatians 5:22-23).
Obedience
Willingness to submit to God’s authority and wisdom (Ephesians 5:22-24).

Scripture Passages Supporting These Qualities

1 Timothy 2:9-11 (ESV)
“Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.”

1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV)
“Do not let your adorning be external the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”

Blessings of a Woman Who Lives by These Principles

When you live by these godly qualities, respect naturally follows. Whatever you ask from God whether a godly husband, a position of leadership, or spiritual gifts He will provide according to His perfect will.

Like Ruth, who found Boaz (Ruth 2:1-23), God honors faithfulness and humility.

As Proverbs 31 describes, a virtuous woman’s worth is “far above jewels” (Proverbs 31:10).

Most importantly, you will receive eternal life and be in the company of godly women like Sarah, Hannah, Deborah, and Mary the faithful women of the Bible who trusted God and lived with dignity.

A Warning

Rejecting these principles leads to the opposite outcome. Jezebel, a biblical symbol of ungodliness and rebellion (Revelation 2:20), serves as a warning. Following her example leads to spiritual ruin.