Society has always placed women in roles of servitude. Not that there is anything wrong with that. Jesus served others and what better role model could we have? However, Jesus was also a leader and women have not always been viewed as leaders. Even with the changes in today’s society where women run departments and Fortune 500 companies, they are still often relegated to a different role in churches and ministry.
Women Leaders of the Bible
You may remember Deborah of the Old Testament. She was only mentioned in a small passage and yet she had a profound impact on history. She was a judge in Israel before they had kings. She led an entire nation and was also a prophetess, which means she had a leadership role in the spiritual realm as well.
Phoebe was a woman mentioned in the New Testament as a leader. Most historians recognize her as a minister and even possibly a deacon that was well-known during her time, meaning she did not do her work in the background. She traveled and ministered to others.
Tabitha was another such disciple and minister. Her life was devoted to good works and charitable contributions to those who needed it. None of these women were mentioned in conjunction with husbands, but seemed to have their own separate and individual ministries.
Lessons for Today
These Biblical women set the tone for women who want to serve Christ. They were fearless and not afraid to challenge the traditions of the day. At the same time, there is no mention that they stirred up controversy or caused problems for the church. They just set about doing what God intended for them to do.
How can you become a leader? Look for areas that need someone to take charge. This may be in your church or it may involve a separate ministry. If you have the gift of leadership, you must realize that it is a gift given by God meant to be used.
Are You Meant to Be a Leader?
A leader is someone that can see the big picture and can formulate a plan to reach a goal. Leaders think outside the box and know how to achieve results. You have probably served in some type of leadership role, whether it is organizing a fundraiser for your child’s school or planning a birthday party. You know how to get the job done and usually in the most efficient way possible. You work well with others and can easily delegate work.
In truth, women are often leaders in their households even as partners with their husbands. Why is it so difficult to see the possibilities of developing that gift in areas of ministry? After all, God saw the potential in women back in Bible times. Women have that same potential today to lead others to do His will and achieve His purposes.
