Women Who Serve God

What Christian woman has not wondered how she can be one who receives her Lord's commendation, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:21)

Haven't we all looked around to see others accomplishing work which in some way advances the kingdom of God and the spread of the Good News? Haven't we felt inadequate to do even a fraction of what someone else has done? If we did summon up the courage to follow a desire to do a particular service or ministry, were we discouraged from it by others?

The Scriptures were written for women as well as for men; we are all made in the image of God and all believers, male and female, will share in God's inheritance. We, too, can take courage from the words to Joshua:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

When Paul wrote these words under God's inspiration, they were written for women as well as men:

All these [spiritual gifts] are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.
Hebrews 12:11

The words "each one" are translated from a Greek word which can refer to anyone, male or female. This passage indicates that each person, including every woman, who is a member of the church Christ is building has been given a spiritual gift to use.

There may be a difference between an aptitude one inherits and one given by the Holy Spirit; but all our resources, including our natural aptitudes belong to God for his use. The gift of healing is clearly one given by the Spirit, not inherited. Many people are born with an inherent musical ability. If we turn this gift over to God for his use, does it not also become a spiritual gift by virtue of being guided by the Holy Spirit? Personally, I don't believe we should be all that worried about whether or not a skill or aptitude is a spiritual gift. If there is a need someone is able to fill, fill it.

The questions to ask are: Is there a need? Is my help needed? Will it work for the common good, building love and unity among those of the body of Christ? Will it honor God among unbelievers? Am I standing in someone else's way; someone who is already filling that need well? If you have a desire to fill that need, but do not think you are equipped, you can ask God for the gift or gifts or resources to do whatever service needs to be done. If God wills you to have that gift so you can fill a need with the faith he gives, you just may find yourself equipped to do something you never would have thought possible.