1 Timothy 3:1-7

When the Bible talks about how to be a good wife, it’s tempting to turn a deaf ear. I’ve never been a wife or mother, and at this stage of life I never will be. So, move on God. We’ve got nothing to talk about in this area.

Or do we? A good wife is a good woman, isn’t she? Shouldn’t how to be a good woman apply to me? OK, God. Point taken.

In chapter three of his first letter to Timothy, Paul talks about the qualities necessary for a pastor. But these qualities are just as important for godly men and women no matter our vocational calling. Things like:

blameless
temperate
sober-minded
hospitable
having good behavior
having a good reputation outside of church

As a Christ-follower those traits should be evident and maturing every day in me. But there are places in Scripture that speak specifically to women, and our role in God’s kingdom work. In addition to the characteristics listed above we are to add:

helper (Genesis 2:18)
submissive (Ephesians 5:22-24)
respectful (Ephesians 5:33)
love for family (Titus 2:4)
trustworthiness (Proverbs 31:11-12)
serving others, helping the afflicted, and devotion (1 Timothy 5:10)

Wow! Taking a look at a woman’s role in God’s kingdom work makes me realize we aren’t less than men in any way. If fact, women seem to be necessary for men, their anchor, their charging-station, the shelter and encouragement they need in order to serve God in obedience to Him.

Why do we think we have to compete? Why blur the lines when the lines were drawn by a loving God who doesn’t make mistakes.

What a privilege to be a women in God’s kingdom work. You don’t have to take on the work intended for men in order to feel special or useful. You have enough to do, important things to do in your role as a godly woman.

We are all equal in the sight of God. And we are all equally important to Him in our separate roles.

Am I saying women shouldn’t be behind the pulpit? I’m not. But God clearly is. I don’t believe God would “call” someone to a position that opposes His written Word.

“But I don’t like being in the back ground. I like to be out front, in control, lauded and applauded.” Then I’m thinking you might have a pride-problem.

Study for yourself the beautiful role God has designed for women. We’ve strayed. But I don’t think it’s too late to humble ourselves and pick up the banner He has laid out for us. Strong homes, strong men and fathers, strong churches depend on the strong women who are working diligently to be the women God intends them to be.

What a privilege! It’s great to be a woman in God’s kingdom work.