Women of WorthSample

Once we catch God’s vision for our lives and consider examples of who we might become, we still need two more keys. The first is a clear process to grow in our calling.

Process

Growth takes time. Each of us has been given spiritual gifts. Often, those entrusted with material resources have the gift of giving.[1] Whatever our gifts, none of us start at full strength. We need to take small steps that keep us moving in the direction of God’s vision and the examples we’ve considered. The first step is prayer. We acknowledge our dependence on God to accomplish anything of eternal value. We can ask him to empower us and reveal opportunities to use our gifts.

Then, we grow in our gifts through practice. Paul instructs Timothy to practice using his gifts. “Immerse yourself in them,” he says, “so that all may see your progress.”[2] We can begin right where we are without being afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are part of the growth process!

In all of this, we need faith because faith pleases God.[3] Faith is like a muscle that gets stronger with training. We can practice faith through generosity. As we take risks to trust God’s fatherly provision for us and share freely with others, we grow in our dependence, joy, and faith.

Community

The final key every woman needs in order to fulfil her calling is a community of like-minded people. Growth happens in community. It’s worth noting that Jesus called followers to be with him, but also with each other in community. We all need godly friends growing in the same direction.

When reading a book, do you ever flip to the back to read the acknowledgements section? It’s interesting to get a peek at who influenced the author and contributed to their work. God has given us the ability to influence and be deeply influenced by others. He set up humanity in such a way that we need each other. The book of Proverbs says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisors they succeed.”[4] God intends for us to cultivate connections with others in the body of Christ who are also seeking to live with faith and purpose. We are called to spend time together and to stir one another up to love and good works in light of eternity.[5]

Leaders rise and fall based on those around them. In order to thrive, we must pursue a few godly friends who will run alongside us. Friendship is not optional; it’s essential, the secret ingredient behind every great life. Now is the time to cultivate relationships that will be featured in the acknowledgements section of our lives!

As a woman of worth, what is the next step I could take to practice using my gifts? Who could I reach out to today to start a conversation about living with greater purpose and generosity in light of God’s kingdom?

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[1] Romans 12:8

[2] 1 Timothy 4:14-15

[3] Hebrews 11:6

[4] Proverbs 15:22

[5] Hebrews 10:24-25