Inspired by. . . a few good words
Inspired by. . . a few good words
It began earlier this week when I read Jennifer Flanders 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband (without saying a word). Reading through I was challenged to do better in certain areas, but I also had the thought, more than once, that "this is sure to ruffle a few feathers! So many women who read this will react defensively rather than embrace what is being said."
Because, frankly, most a lot of women, even Christians, do not understand what Biblical Womanhood is all about.
Jennifer's post led me to read her husband's post 25 Ways to Show Your Wife You Love Her, which reaffirmed what I already knew: I am so incredibly blessed. My husband nails all 25 on a regular basis. (For the record, he disagrees and says he needs work in several areas – like I said, I'm blessed)
“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine,
He who pastures his flock among the lilies.” Song of Solomon 6:3
Textured with Kim's appreciate
We humans are great at extremes, aren't we?
Instead of embracing, and seeking to understand the balance and order in God's word about men and women we think we can do better.
Enter the liberated woman. Anything a man can do, we can do better! Except, we can't. And by creating a culture that has effectively emasculated the man, we have denied ourselves the freedoms and liberties of being women.
Yesterday I read Heidi St. John's post over at Time Warp Wife: …And We Wonder Why Chivalry is Dead were she states, in part,
"When we’d rather get the door ourselves or turn a man who offers his seat to us down just because we’re women, we miss out on the opportunity to see love and service, respect and honor in action."
She also quotes from an excellent post written by Matt Walsh:
“…chivalry is still essential. Men should carry bags, and hold doors, and pull out chairs, and offer seats to women, not because women are incapable of standing or opening their own doors, but because of what these acts represent — what they say. And what they say is simple: “I am bigger and stronger than you, but I will use my strength to honor you and protect you. I will not hurt you. I will not take advantage of you. I will humble myself before you and serve you.” -
I just love that.
I encourage you to click over and read Heidi's post, as well as Matt's. There is really no point in me re-writing what they have both already said so well.
Heidi nailed it:
"It’s not about equality. It’s about respect and uncommon courtesy, something that is sorely missing in our society today."
The concept of Biblical Womanhood is one that is constantly attacked and misrepresented by our culture and society. If you find yourself confused, or needing some clarity on these issues, remember what Jesus said, "“If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
Here are some resources that I believe effectively communicate the truth of God's word on this subject:
Lies Women Believe: And the Truth that Sets them Free – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Let Me Be a Woman – Elizabeth Elliot Biblical Portrait of Womanhood: Discovering and Living Out God's Plan for our Lives – Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Sermons on Biblical Womanhood – Alistair Begg, Truth for Life
I've long been inspired by this Biblical concept and am currently several chapters into a book with the working title, The Music of Angels. It's a story about a 21st century military wife and a 15th century noblewoman. The story seeks to convey the truth that God's word is timeless. His precepts are just as relevant in today's culture as they have been in every other culture since the beginning of time. It's a challenging process.
Like writing a book, becoming a Biblical woman is a process as well.
You don't become one overnight.
It's a journey.
A life-changing, fulfilling, free-ing, JOYful journey!
The truth is, we're all on a journey.
Is your journey taking you where you want to go?
Sharing inspiration here:
