Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

Throughout history, women have played central, Spirit-empowered roles in the unfolding story of God’s mission. From the Garden of Eden to the empty tomb, from the early church to today’s pulpits, homes, and mission fields, women—especially mothers—have been vital to the growth and vitality of the church. On this Mother’s Day, we pause not only to appreciate their sacrifice and love but to affirm their God-ordained place in His redemptive work.

The story of women in ministry begins with Eve, the mother of all living (Genesis 3:20). She was not an afterthought but an essential partner in God’s plan. When God declared that it was “not good for man to be alone,” He created woman as a helper—a term (‘ezer’) used elsewhere in Scripture to describe God Himself (Psalm 33:20; Psalm 70:5). This doesn’t indicate weakness, but rather strength, presence, and divine assistance. From the beginning, women were designed not to follow behind men, but to walk beside them, bearing God’s image and carrying divine purpose.

Scripture is filled with women who stepped into bold leadership. Deborah was both prophetess and judge—anointed by God to lead Israel in a time of chaos (Judges 4–5). Esther risked her life to intercede for her people, displaying wisdom, courage, and faith in God’s sovereignty (Esther 4:14). These women weren’t merely side notes in God’s story; they were trailblazers who helped write it.

When Jesus entered the scene, He radically redefined the cultural treatment of women. In a society that often silenced them, Jesus listened, engaged, healed, taught, and empowered them. He honored the faith of the bleeding woman (Mark 5:25–34), revealed His Messiahship to the Samaritan woman (John 4), and lifted the fallen woman in grace rather than condemnation (John 8:1–11). Mary of Bethany sat at His feet—a place reserved for disciples—and Jesus commended her choice (Luke 10:38–42). He was not just a Savior for women; He was a Savior who saw and celebrated them.

And it was women who first received and proclaimed the news that changed the world. On Resurrection Sunday, it wasn’t Peter or John who first saw the risen Christ—it was Mary Magdalene and the other women (Matthew 28:1–10; John 20:11–18). In an era when a woman’s testimony was often discredited, Jesus entrusted the most important message in history to women. Their voice carried the spark of resurrection hope into a world shrouded in darkness.

The early church followed Jesus’ lead. Priscilla, with her husband Aquila, taught the eloquent preacher Apollos the deeper truths of the gospel (Acts 18:24–26). Lydia, a businesswoman, was the first convert in Europe and hosted one of the earliest church gatherings in her home (Acts 16:14–15). Phoebe, described as a deacon and benefactor, carried Paul’s letter to the Romans and likely read and explained it to the church (Romans 16:1–2). These were not passive supporters; they were active participants in God’s advancing Kingdom.

Paul himself acknowledged women as co-laborers: Euodia and Syntyche (Philippians 4:2–3), Junia—a woman “outstanding among the apostles” (Romans 16:7), and others who worked hard for the cause of Christ. His words in Galatians 3:28 ring clearly: “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” In Christ, hierarchy gives way to unity, and gender becomes a gift—not a barrier—to service.

Today, women continue to lead, disciple, nurture, and build up the church. They are pastors, prayer warriors, theologians, intercessors, Sunday school teachers, missionaries, community organizers, and silent heroes in the background—many of whom are also mothers, raising the next generation of Christ-followers with tender strength and unwavering faith.

Mothers are often the first to whisper the name of Jesus into a child’s ear. They model sacrificial love daily, demonstrating the character of Christ in sleepless nights, whispered prayers, scraped knees, and constant encouragement. They carry not just physical life but spiritual legacy. Their faith becomes the bedrock upon which homes—and sometimes entire communities—are built.

The old saying, “Behind every strong man is a strong woman,” finds its roots deep in Scripture. Behind Abraham was Sarah, who believed God for a son in her old age. Behind Moses was Jochebed, who risked everything to preserve her child. Behind Jesus stood Mary, who believed the angel’s words and carried the Son of God in her womb. Their faith helped frame the future.

From Eden to eternity, women remain central to God’s redemptive plan. Revelation 7:9 tells us that a great multitude from every nation will stand before the throne of God—and women will be there, voices raised in praise, having lived out the mission of heaven on earth.

So, this Mother’s Day, we honor you—mothers, grandmothers, spiritual mothers, mentors, and women of faith. You are seen. You are valued. You are essential. Your prayers matter. Your love echoes into eternity. The church’s mission is fuller, richer, and stronger because of you.

A Prayer for Mothers and Women in Ministry

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of women—uniquely designed, powerfully anointed, and deeply loved. On this Mother’s Day, we lift up every mother and mother figure, every woman who has nurtured, led, prayed, served, and sacrificed in Your name. Pour out Your strength and joy upon them. Renew weary hearts. Restore what has been lost. Remind them that their work is not in vain and their love leaves a lasting legacy. May they feel honored, celebrated, and seen—not just today, but every day. Use their lives to continue shaping the world with grace, faith, and power.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.