Given by: the high priest Joachim and the elders of Israel, blessing Judith after the deliverance of Bethulia. Given to: Judith — and, through her, to every believer whose faithfulness God honours with strength.

A widow held a vulnerable and honoured place in Israel; Judith's refusal to remarry and her devout fidelity mark her as wholly the Lord's. The elders read her courage not as bravado but as the fruit of a faithful, chaste heart strengthened by God.

For thou hast done manfully, and thy heart has been strengthened, because thou hast loved chastity, and after thy husband hast not known any other: therefore also the hand of the Lord hath strengthened thee, and therefore thou shalt be blessed for ever

Love chastity and act courageously, for the Lord strengthens the heart that keeps itself faithful to Him.

Judith 15:11

Your Spirit

Loves God

Loves Neighbor

Your Body

Moral Behaviour