ABLE Women

We see in Genesis 1:26-27 that there is gender clarity and simplicity in God's creation. There is male and female. Men and women are a reflection of God. We complement each other. We are so different, but cherish the mystery of our differences. In Christ, we see women as honorable and dignified. These verses also say that together, we "have dominion" over the earth. In Near East culture, when a sovereign left a region, they would leave an icon to be a reminder. Women are that icon to remind creation of who God is.

Pastor Alex asked his bride, Christy, to give some insight to a few very important topics. Here are her thoughts:

1. Identity starts with God. Genesis 1 shows us that it was God's idea to create, and His creation includes patterns and distinction. (Psalm 100). The fall blurred these patterns and distinctions. When culture wants to add to gender, it is trying ti take authority over something it doesn't possess.

2. How can women choose to be confident? Isaiah 6 shows us that Isaiah saw the Lord high and lifted up. When he saw the Lord, he was "undone". He was very aware of his sin. He couldn't close that gap. Our confidence comes from being a child of God. Hebrews 4:14-16 ends with, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." By His grace we can stand before Him. Women need to remember that He is who matters. Jesus gave up His life for you!

3. How does a woman navigate a culture obsessed with beauty? We spend lots of time seeking beauty of the lesser things. Psalm 24 reminds us to "gaze upon the beauty of the LORD". Proverbs 31:30 says, "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." Charm is the out adornment that is a false hope. A woman who "fears the Lord" SHINES. The fear of the Lord comes back to Proverbs 1 - the fear of the Lord is wisdom. When a woman radiates the wisdom of Christ, she is beautiful.

Pastor Alex challenged the single ladies that desired marriage to find a man who sees the beauty of Christ in them. Don't settle for anything less!

Ezer=helper. A woman is called a "helpmate" to her husband. This is a very honorable term. God is called the "helper of Israel". The Holy Spirit is called "The Helper". It Is a powerful piece of woman's identity.

To Discuss Today:

1. Who are the women in your life that have helped spiritually shape you?

2. Women are often much more sensitive to God's leading than men are. Why do you think this is?

3. Take time (especially men) to speak blessing to the women in your life. Remind them why they are loved, treasured, and valuable.

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