Bravery is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over fear through faith.

And we gals have to get this into our heads, hearts, homes, and world.

In the changing landscape of today’s society, we women find ourselves at a pivotal juncture, poised to make significant strides in fulfilling our divinely ordained mission

At the heart of our collective missions lies the profound biblical concept of the ezer and the call to embody bravery in every single aspect of our lives. To understand our purpose and the importance of our role, let’s delve into the essence of the true ezer and recognize the courage required to carry out God’s plans for each of us.

Understanding the Concept of “Ezer”

The Hebrew word “ezer” appears in the Old Testament and is often translated as “helper.” However, this translation only scratches the surface of its original and profound meaning. Ezer is derived from two root words meaning “to rescue” and “to save.” It is the same term used to describe God as our helper in Psalm 33:20 and Psalm 115:9-11, where He is portrayed as our strength and support in times of trouble.

Get this – the woman is a strength and support in times of trouble. We’re not the damsel in distress. We’re not fainting on the chaise lounge. We’re not needing a man to come to the rescue. By God’s design … we are the rescue.

When God created Eve, He declared that she would be an “ezer kenegdo” for Adam (Genesis 2:18). This phrase is rich with significance, indicating that women are not mere assistants but vital partners, endowed with the strength and capability to fulfill God’s purpose alongside men. As Christian women, embracing our identity, determined in the garden of Eden, means recognizing our God-given strength and stepping into our role as influential and powerful agents of change.

To live out our mission as ezer, we must cultivate the elusive art of bravery. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of women who exhibited remarkable courage in the face of adversity. From Deborah, the prophetess and judge who led Israel to victory (Judges 4-5), to Esther, who risked her life to save her people (Esther 4:16), the Scriptures are replete with stories of brave women who made a difference. They each serve as an example and our inspiration.

Being brave does not mean the absence of fear; rather, it is the decision to act in faith despite fear. In today’s world, Christian women are called to be brave in various arenas, whether it be in our homes, workplaces, churches, or communities. We must stand firm in our moral convictions, advocate for justice, and nurture a spirit of love and compassion. Bravery involves speaking the truth in love, challenging societal norms that conflict with biblical principles, and persevering in the face of opposition.

Being brave means being counter-culture to the world that’s lost it’s way.

Bravery in the Home

As the ezer, we play a crucial role in our families. Being brave in the home means creating an environment where God’s love and truth are evident despite our lack of time or lack of cultural influence. It involves teaching our children about faith, standing by our spouses in times of difficulty, and fostering a culture of grace and forgiveness. We are called to be prayer warriors, interceding for our loved ones and seeking God’s guidance in every decision.

Bravery in the Workplace

In the professional sphere, Christian women have the opportunity to be a light and a witness to their colleagues. Bravery in the workplace means maintaining integrity, upholding ethical standards, and treating others with respect and dignity. It involves using our talents and skills to glorify God, pursuing excellence, and being unafraid to share our faith when opportunities arise.

Bravery in the Church

Within the church, Christian women can serve as leaders, teachers, and mentors. Bravery in the church means stepping into roles that may be outside our comfort zones, whether it be leading a Bible study, serving in a ministry, or offering support to those in need. It involves fostering unity, encouraging others in their faith journeys, and contributing to the spiritual growth of the congregation even when that feels uncomfortable.

Bravery in the Community

Christian women are also called to be brave in their communities. This involves advocating for the marginalized, speaking out against injustice, and participating in initiatives that promote the common good. Bravery in the community means being the hands and feet of Jesus, showing kindness to strangers, and making a positive impact through acts of service and compassion. But it can also mean speaking out when societal norms change as we’ve seen in the recent past with child mutilations over gender ideologies.

Fulfilling Our Mission

As Christian women, our mission is to be the ezer—the ally and the rescuing agent in every aspect of our lives. We are called to embody the strength and support that God exemplifies, and to do so with bravery and faith. In a world that often undermines the value of women, we must stand firm in our identity and purpose, recognizing that we are vital to God’s plan.

I’ll say that again. You are vital to God’s plan for this world.

Go on, be brave and step out in faith, that God will use you to accomplish His will. Together, we can fulfill our mission and shine as beacons of hope and love in a world in need. And man, oh man, is that a world in need out there.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called.

You are called.

 May we, as Christian women, respond to His call with bravery and the unwavering conviction that we are His chosen vessels, ready to accomplish the mission He has set before us.

From my heart to your tenacious and brave spirit,

Laurie