"Run the Race" Includes Women
Women are empowered in ministry by having proper role models which allow them to have the freedom to "run" in the direction that God has created for them to run. Watching other runners gives one the tools for the trade, the hope of endurance, and the excitement of crossing the finish line. I recently wrote about having two female pastors who shaped my life for the long run in ministry. You may find that story here. http://www.christianitytoday.com/gifted-for-leadership/2016/april/i-grew-up-with-two-women-pastors.html?paging=off
God has designed us different, that is for sure, but we, as women leaders, have a place in His Kingdom. He calls us, forms us, shapes us, and commissions us into the greatest call of all . . . His call . . . His Kingdom work!
I serve in Operation Christmas Child strategizing with other leaders as to how we can bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to others. I am a woman in leadership, leading the way for many to come to Christ through the gift of a simple shoe box. Now that is a calling!
It reminds me of the biblical story of Lydia. "One woman, Lydia, was from Thyatira and a dealer in expensive textiles, known to be a God-fearing woman. As she listened with intensity to what was being said, the Master gave her a trusting heart - and she believed! After she was baptized, along with everyone in her household, she said in a surge of hospitality, 'If your confident that I'm in this with you and believe in the Master truly, come home with me and be my guests.' We hesitated, but she wouldn't take no for an answer" (Acts 16:12-15, The Message Bible).
Lydia was a business woman, answered the call that God gave to her, and she would not take NO for an answer! That is leadership! Lydia became a role model for those around her. Lydia chose to follow God and she had influence. Women, we are called of God and He gives us influence for those around us. Let's use that influence and run the race well, so that others are called into His Kingdom!
