3 Points for Meal Planning & Prep for the Proverbs 31 Mom
“Well, I got overwhelmed with the day and honestly dinner time just snuck up on me,” said an exasperated me before discovering the beauty and wisdom behind meal planning and prepping.
As Proverbs 31-inspired moms, our hearts are to care for our homes with wisdom, love, and intentionality. But let’s be honest—between homeschooling, errands, and the everyday rhythm of life, meal planning can feel like another overwhelming task on the list. Still, we know that feeding our families well is a part of our God-given stewardship—and it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Meal planning and prep simplify your week and create space for more peace and joy in your home. Here are three grace-filled points to help you navigate meal time with intention, leaning on the wisdom and example of the Proverbs 31 woman.
Photo by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash
1. Plan with Purpose, Not Perfection
The Proverbs 31 woman “brings her food from afar” and “provides food for her household” (Proverbs 31:14-15). But her strength wasn’t in perfect execution—it was in her purposeful care. When you meal plan, focus on what serves your family well. That might mean repeating meals, choosing easy recipes, or having a weekly “leftovers night.”
I tried the perfection route, and it is way more stressful. God doesn’t need us to be perfect, but pure in motives, intention, and follow-through.
📝 Quick Tip: Choose one day each week to jot down meals based on your schedule and what you already have. This is a game-changer. If possible, plan and grocery shop on the same day, but a different day than prep! Please keep it simple and give yourself grace, love!
Ello @elloproducts | Unsplash Photo Community
2. Prep Ahead to Serve with Joy
“She looks well to the ways of her household…” (Proverbs 31:27). Planning is excellent, but prepping ahead brings even more peace during your week. Whether chopping veggies, making muffins, or organizing snacks, a little prep can go a long way.
This is how I do my homemade breads. Batch baking is the way to go for me. This helps me not spend hours every day in the kitchen. Also, the marriage of plan and prep is batch cooking. If you don’t have time to plan by the week, plan by the month. Batch cook whatever can tolerate that, e.g., if we have a taco Tuesday casserole every week, I will do four at once. I also have plenty of freezer space, so stick to the weekly or biweekly schedule if you don’t.
Include your kids in this when you can. Not only does it lighten your load, but it also teaches them the value of working with joyful hands, just like Mama.
📝 Quick Tip: Block off a “prep pocket” of time once or twice a week. I try to do this on my husband’s off days or days that I know are less hectic. It’s trial and error, so start where it makes the most sense.
Photo by Askar Abayev: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-family-having-feast-6192009/
3. Keep Christ at the Center of the Table
The Proverbs 31 woman’s life was rooted in the fear of the Lord, and our meal times can reflect that same heart. Meals aren’t just about food—they’re an opportunity to connect, encourage, and bless. Invite the Holy Spirit into your kitchen. Let your table be a place of peace, laughter, and truth.
Sis, keep in mind what makes sense for your family. My husband is only home for dinner due to working during the other meals. Since those are precious moments, we must agree on how to conduct dinnertime. Instead of quiet, rushed dinners, now we reflect on family bible stories, the details of our day, and fostering a seamless segway into children’s bedtime.
📝 Quick Tip: Incorporate a family memory verse or short devotional before dinner. It sets a tone of faith and unity that nourishes everyone.
Meal planning and prep for the Proverbs 31 mom aren’t about doing all the things—they’re about doing what’s necessary. May you have purposeful planning, joyful prep, and mealtimes that honor the Lord.
You’ve got this, Mama—and He’s with you every step of the way.
Share your feelings and thoughts in the comments below!
In Him,
Candace
