Bringing truth to the definition of a woman during Women’s History Month

Embrace the Biblical definition of a woman

Monday, March 25, 2024

By Cathe Laurie – Special to Higher Ground

Reprinted from Higher Ground — The Washington Times

AUDIO

As we close out Women’s History Month, we are faced with a profound question: How do we celebrate women in a society where the very essence of womanhood is often contested, blurred, and redefined?

I have four beautiful granddaughters who are just entering the world during a time when the very definition of what it is to be a woman is up for debate, and to say I am concerned is an understatement. From the time I was growing up in the 1960s and ‘70s through my 40 years in ministry, I have witnessed that the further women stray from God’s guidelines of womanhood, the more dissatisfied and unhappy they become.

But there is hope stirring, a renewed desire and interest in celebrating the joys of being a godly woman, whether at home, at work, or anywhere in between.

So, how do we celebrate women in a month dedicated to their history and achievements, within the framework of a Biblical worldview? In seeking answers and direction, I turn to the timeless wisdom found in the Word of God and some key principles found there.

Recognize the inherent dignity of women

In Genesis 1:27, we read, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

Welcome to The Virtue Podcast with Cathe Laurie. In every season, there is always room for growth. We believe that faith grows best in a group community that is centered on the study of God’s Word and deeply rooted in living out the gospel, life on life. Join Cathe and the teaching team as they share thoughts to reinforce our Bible study and discussion time.

Honor women’s contributions

Throughout history, women have made significant contributions to society, often in the face of adversity and discrimination.

The midwives in Egypt defied Pharoah to save the innocent Hebrew babies. Deborah served as a prophetess and judge in the Old Testament. Esther courageously saved her people in the face of death. Mary Magdalene battled demons and was among the first witnesses of Christ’s resurrection. Mary, our Lord’s mother, faced judgment and grief as she bore and raised Jesus and then watched him die on the cross. In modern times, I think of women like Monica, Mother of St. Augustine, Katy Luther, Amy Carmichael, Elizabeth Elliot, Ruth Graham, and Kay Smith (just to name a few) who have led people into the hope and truth of God’s Word.

The Bible and history are replete with examples of women who played pivotal roles in God’s redemptive plan. Their stories inspire us to recognize and honor the diverse talents, abilities, and achievements of women in every sphere of life, and remind us that even when circumstances are outside of our control, God has a special plan and purpose for us.

Nurture and empower women

Proverbs 31:25 describes the attributes of a virtuous woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

As women, we are designed with resilience, resourcefulness, and inner strength! As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us create environments where women are nurtured, empowered, and equipped to fulfill their God-given potential. It starts at home, as we raise our daughters, and extends into mentorship programs, women’s Bible study small groups, educational initiatives, and leadership development opportunities. Let us invest in the growth and flourishing of women around us.

Pursue God’s design for womanhood

Ultimately, our understanding of womanhood must be grounded in God’s Word. In Proverbs 31:30, we read, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

True beauty and significance are found not in external appearances or societal accolades, but in a deep reverence for God and a life lived in obedience to His will. It is easy to think that our value decreases as our wrinkles increase, but the Bible tells us that gray hair is a crown and wisdom should be valued above all. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us strive to embody the virtues of wisdom, strength, and godliness that characterize the women of faith through Scripture.

The world may try to redefine what a woman is, but we can truly honor and celebrate the ladies in our lives during Women’s History Month by bringing back the truth of who God made us to be. May our celebrations reflect God’s love, grace, and esteem for every woman created in His image.

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Cathe Laurie is the wife of Greg Laurie, Senior Pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship and featured speaker for Harvest Crusades and Harvest America Evangelistic Outreaches.

She is the founder and director of Virtue, the women’s ministry at Harvest Christian Fellowship, which for over 40 years has helped women discover a deeper relationship with God through studying the Scriptures. She is a Bible teacher and featured speaker on The Virtue Podcast with Cathe Laurie. Through the pages of her book, As I See It, and her devotional blog read nationwide, Cathe brings a distinctly feminine perspective to show how Scripture speaks to all the basic issues of life.

Cathe and Greg celebrated 50 years of marriage in February 2024. They have two sons: Christopher, who went to be with the Lord in 2008, and Jonathan; two daughters-in-law, Brittany and Brittni; and five grandchildren, Stella, Lucy, Rylie, Alexandra, and Christopher. 

Cathe enjoys hiking and reading and has lots of fun cooking in the kitchen with her grandchildren.