Does God Value Women?
The month of March marks International Women’s History month.
As we reflect on the wonderful achievements that women have made all over the world, by overcoming barriers and forging the way for many generations to come, it is the history of how the Lord used women in the Bible that always moves me.
When you read the Bible, it truly chronicles a history of women who have been empowered by God to do great and mighty things for Him and His people.
Whilst historically society has undermined, undervalued and silenced women - in God’s kingdom, the Lord has always valued His daughters.
The Lord’s Heart for Women
We learn of the Lord’s heart for His daughters in John’s account of the woman at the well (See John 4:1-43). On His way to Galilee, traveling through Samaria, Jesus encounters’ a Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar and asks the Samaritan woman for a drink.
If you’re familiar with the story, you may be aware of how countercultural this request is. Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman, people the Jews did not associate with.
He spoke to an unmarried, social outcast who society had labelled immoral because of her controversial marital history.
Yet, this encounter would empower and embolden this woman to be a witness to her community and as a result lead many to salvation.
Again, we see the Lord’s heart in Luke 10: 38-39, when Mary decides to sit at the feet of Jesus listening eagerly to His teachings – Mary sat as a student, a position uncommon for women and traditionally reserved for men.
Jesus’ response to Mary’s sister, Martha, who calls upon Mary to join her as she prepares for her guests, speaks volume:
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset
about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” - (Luke 10:41, NIV).
Notice how it is still a woman, Mary Magdalene, who is also the first person to see Jesus resurrected and told all the disciples. (See John:11-18)
You Have a Seat at God’s Table
You see, in the eyes of the Lord, women have always played an important role in His kingdom. His daughters are valued, royal diadems, precious in His sight purposed to bring glory to His name and His name alone.
You may be a young woman using the days of your youth to diligently serve the Lord and His Church.
You may be a mother raising her Godly children.
You may be a woman blessed to be in her later years with a gorgeous crown of glory - a gift to the church who drink from your fount of wisdom.
Whatever life-stage or age, the Lord values you and the church cherish you.
Woman, Daughter of the Most High, never undermine how important your womanhood is – even if the world does not see your value, God does.
In His Kingdom, you will always have a seat at the table and your impact will affect generations!
