A woman’s role has been a controversial topic, whether it is women in leadership roles within a local church, or working moms advancing their careers in other sectors. People have different opinions on what it should look like; however it is important to understand what the Bible tells us from the beginning.
In Genesis 1:27, it states “God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This verse is a reminder of how we have all been made in the image of God. He thought enough of both male and female to make us into His image. He didn’t create one better than the other. With His creation, He made things good and to serve a purpose.
Some women associate their identity with their family life, careers or marital status. I think it is important for women to find their identity in Christ and allow everything else to fall into its rightful place. Throughout life’s journey, I believe the church has an opportunity to play a major role in affirming the gifts within women. An opportunity to cultivate their talents in a way that honors the Lord either inside or outside of the walls of the church. If God created all of us in His image then we are to steward our gifts wherever they lead us. As Christ’s ambassadors (See 2 Corinthians 5:20), we should consistently present ourselves in a way that honors Him and brings others back to Him.
We are all called to do great things to advance the kingdom of God. He created us with gifts and talents. And although many people may share a spiritual gift, we all have a unique assignment. 1 Corinthians 12:4 –11 reminds us how
“there are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.”
God has given you gifts to use for His glory. All of our gifts are for the purpose of glorifying Him and bringing others to Him. If we sit on our gifts, then it will be wasteful and robs others who are waiting for you to obedient with what He has given you.
Romans 12:6- 8 says, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Whatever gift God has blessed us with, we are to use it for a greater purpose.
Here are a few ways the church can affirm women’s gifts:
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