A WOMAN'S PLACE - PART 5 IN THE COMMUNITY AND WORLD

SHE RULES

We are told that, "Deborah was one of the rulers of the Israelites prior to the 

monarchy period that with Saul (circa 1047 B.C.). These rulers were called "judges," an office that traced back to a time when Moses appointed assistants to help him resolve disputes among the Hebrews (Exodus 18). Their practice was to seek guidance from God through prayer and meditation before making a ruling. Therefore, many of the judges also were considered prophets who spoke "a word from the Lord."

Judges 4: 4

And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.

There are many who are against women as community and world leaders especially if she is a christian woman and or a wife.  Hopefully a look into this remarkable woman who was not only a wife but a warrior and a judge would help eliminate the discrimination and query. 

Please feel free to read the details in Judges 4, 5 as you see her role as a warrior, judge and prophetess.

TODAY'S FOCUS: RULINGS AND PREDICTIONS

Let's take a look into the following verses - Judges 4: 5-10:

5 And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in mount Ephraim: and the children of Israel came up to her for judgment.

6 And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the Lord God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?

7 And I will draw unto thee to the river Kishon Sisera, the captain of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his multitude; and I will deliver him into thine hand.

8 And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go.

9 And she said, I will surely go with thee: notwithstanding the journey that thou takest shall not be for thine honour; for the Lord shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. And Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh.

10 And Barak called Zebulun and Naphtali to Kedesh; and he went up with ten thousand men at his feet: and Deborah went up with him.

1. What are your thoughts on verse 5 - the children of Israel came up to her for judgement?  Do you think they were not men in their community?
2. What about verses 6,7 when she sent for Barak and gave him the instructions from the Lord?
3. What do you think of Barak's response in verse 8?  Do you think he questioned her ruling or the fact that she was a woman?
4. Note Deborah's response in verse 9, what do you think that did to his ego? or do you suppose He respected her prophecy?
5. How was the command followed in verse 10?  Do you think Deborah made a difference?

While this story should not make you lose the respect for our men leaders, it should help you readily embrace God leading through women.   Watch how the prophecy comes to pass in verses 21,22:

Then Jael Heber's wife took a nail of the tent, and took an hammer in her hand, and went softly unto him, and smote the nail into his temples, and fastened it into the ground: for he was fast asleep and weary. So he died.

And, behold, as Barak pursued Sisera, Jael came out to meet him, and said unto him, Come, and I will shew thee the man whom thou seekest. And when he came into her tent, behold, Sisera lay dead, and the nail was in his temples.

Share your thoughts on the outcome of Deborah's ruling.  (How do you suppose Barak felt when He realize the prophecy came to pass just as predicted and the victory was through a woman.) 

Would you consider Jael a woman soilder or leader?  (Chapter 5: 24-27)

Chapter 5 is known as the "Songs of Deborah."  Her rulings, courage and wisdom gave them 40 years of peace.  

Remember, God gives gifts to all.  While Deborah ruled, her rulings came from a greater power and she ruled in truth.  Know your place as a woman, respectfully give advise and counseling, and let the God of all truth grant you the courage to pursue His calling.  Today, many women are pursuing leadership careers.  You are encouraged to seek the counsel of God.  Your gift will also make room for you.  Don't push or run after it!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

A WOMAN'S PLACE - PART 4 IN THE CHURCH

SILENCE IN THE CHURCHES

More than ever the woman's place in the church has become a controversial issue especially among doctrine driven churches.  The following scripture is the basis for their reasoning.

1 Corinthians 14: 34-35 (KJV)
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.

And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.

What was Paul addressing in these two verses?
Does it have any bearing on the previous conversation of the chapter? 
What if they don't have husbands at home to ask questions can they speak?
What are your thoughts on the last part of the sentence, "It is a shame for women to speak in the church?"

Take the time to read the entire chapter in the other versions especially the TLB. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DENIED OPPORTUNITY

1 Timothy 2:11-12 (KJV)
Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

This scripture has apparently been used to closed the door to many women ministering in the church when the scripture says that the gifts of God are given to all.  So let's discuss:

1. If this mean she is not allowed to teach, should she teach children, women, new converts or others in the church?
2. What does usurp authority mean? 
3. Can she do so if given authority?

Does silence in the church means absolute silence or are certain areas restricted?  Please give your reasons with scriptures.  Bear in mind the following questions..

If women are to be silence in the church, why are they praying and singing, allowed women sessions and conferences, testify or bring other exhortation?  

If they are to be silence and be in subjection can they hold other positions, ushers, secretary, moderators, finance, board members, etc...  

Is it apparent to you that everything else is permissible except teaching, preaching and the other gifts?  

We look forward to your comments seeking God's truth to the matter.  

 

Remember, that all things must be done decently and in order and that God has an order of authority.  However, the gifts of God are not gender base but those whom God has called.  God's gifts and calling are also without repentance. Romans 11: 29

God Bless you & Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

A WOMAN'S PLACE - PART 3 OBEDIENCE

GOOD DAUGHTERS

1 Peter 3: 6 (TLB)

Sarah, for instance, obeyed her husband Abraham, honoring him as head of the house. And if you do the same, you will be following in her steps like good daughters and doing what is right; then you will not need to fear offending your husbands

The scripture above shows Sarah as an obedient wife, honoring him and respecting him.  The KJV states that she called him lord.

Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

What is your take of that scripture?
How far should obedience be regarded? 
Does that mean that you should let the husband have the last say in a decision?
When should you not obey?

TODAY'S TOPIC:  OBEDIENCE - FEAR OF OFFENDING 

Take a look at the TLB version which states that if you obey your husband and doing what is right you will not fear offending him.

 

Share your experience and or views either way...

1. Do you think that some women obey because of fear of offending or perhaps fear for their lives?
2. Do you believe that as a wife you should obey and not offend or disrespect?

Take a look at the highlighted area in the following scripture -Titus 2:5 (KJV)

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

What value does obedience add to the the last part of the verse, "that the word of God be not blasphemed?" (Give examples of its relevance) 

Remember, God has called wives to obey their husbands and be respectful.  Honor should be given to him as the head of the household regardless of your background job position or education.  This is the order of the household by design.  Doing right will make you less anxious and unintimidated.  Be obedient so none would think less of God's word.  

Please engage and give your feedback in the discussion.

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

A WOMAN'S PLACE PART 2 - IN THE WORKPLACE

KEEPERS AT HOME 

Titus 2:5 (KJV)

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

We hope you had a chance to view yesterday's discussion and are ready to continue with today's topic.  

Let's take a look at the scripture quoted.  Based on the term, "keepers at home" should women be allowed to seek employment outside of the home?  Why/Why not

TODAY'S FOCUS:  CAREER WIVES

Today more and more women are entering into marriage with a career, dreams of finishing a degree or exploring avenues of employment.

Let's consider and give your feedback on the following:

1. What positions should wives be allowed to hold?
2. Should they work part time/full time?
3. Are they limited to certain jobs or environment?
4. Should they get permission from their husbands to work?
5. Should the household chores and other responsibilities be shared or is it still her responsibility to "keep" the home?
6. Should she be able to do what she wants with her income or be responsible for the household expenses?
7. Should a wife pursue a degree or complete an education if she is not going to work?  why/why not
8. What if any house bond employment can she consider?
9. When should a wife give up her job or any career endeavors?
10. What is your advise spiritually and otherwise to wives who have a career outside the home?

Remember as wives your first responsibility is to your husband and family.  The general health of the home belongs to you.  While you may choose to or granted permission by your husband to work outside of the home, your husband is still the head of the home.  Chose a career that will allow you to balance life and money and more so does not take you away from God's divine plan for the home.

God Bless you and always remember to Keep the Faith?

Virtuous Jewel

 

A WOMAN'S PLACEPART 1 - IN THE HOME

BACK ON SCHEDULE

Please Accept our Apologies for not having our regular blogs.  We thank you for your understanding.

BAREFOOT AND PREGNANT

1 Timothy 5:14 (KJV)

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.  

The above scripture is very controversial as many believe it's speaking to young widows and because of cultural differences there are many who have various understanding of its meaning.  

We will begin a new series on A Woman's Place and invite you to participate throughout the series.  It's open for both men and women to share their views respectfully.  

What is the Apostle Paul saying to you in that verse?

Who was he referring to? 

Should this be a principle and applicable to all women? Why or Why not

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE ROLE OF MARRIED WOMEN

Reflecting on this particular verse what are your thoughts on the following:

• Should married couples planned their children?
  
  

   (Include in your discussion number of children they will have or use contraceptives etc...) Why or Why not?

• What does it mean to guide the house?  (Give full details to the extent of house planning, designing, her limits etc...)

Remember, please use scriptural references to your answers, and keep in mind the order of God for the household.  Women are to give no occasion to the adversary or any one to speak against them.  

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DBP SERIES 2 - PURPOSE

WHY WAS THE WOMAN CREATED?

Genesis 2:20-22

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

The woman was taken out of the man and then brought back to him so he could have a companion that was like him and not like the animals.  

This is an indication that the woman competes the man since a rib which was a part of him was taken out from him.  After the rib was taken out, God closed up the flesh. The fashion and design which we call woman today was designed by God himself to become a companion for Adam.

In verse 20 God recognizes the need of Adam.  The process is magnificent.  Adam was not involved in the process.  As a matter of fact God allowed a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and while he slept God took one of his ribs.  The design which God formed was a suitable help meet for Him.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  HELP MEET 

The above scripture denotes that Adam was alone in comparison to the other creatures that God had made so God made him an help meet.

Let's discuss a  few things:

• What do you think the term, "help meet" means?

• In what areas should she provide help?

• Are there limits in what a woman should do or shouldn't do?

• How does a woman complete a man?  (write a brief summary)

Do you think that many of the problems that people face in marriages today is because people no longer value the principles outlined?  

As you engage in the discussion, please base your answers on scriptural values and the true purpose that God intended.  We are aware that cultural differences, society and modern times have altered the structure, but what God says will always stand regardless of men theories.  

Remember, God designed the woman to be a help meet for the man.  She should at all times remember that she was taken out of the man and formed with a part of him. Culture and the world status does not define the purpose but God's word. Regardless of your circumstances do not alter the word.  That 's why it's important to follow God's instructions in choosing a mate.  In that way you can serve the purpose you were created to fulfill.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DESIGNED BY PURPOSE SERIES 1 - THE CONSTRUCTION

INTRIGUING DESIGN 

I have often heard ladies say, things like, I wish I was a guy and things of that nature, when faced with monthly issues and other challenges.  But we want to share a series this month on God's special design called Woman.  I pray that you will be inspired and engaged in the discussions of the series.  

Let's start at the beginning when it all happened....

Genesis 2: 18-23

And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.

And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man

Unlike Adam a woman was not formed from the dust of the earth, but from the bone and flesh of the man.  God took one of His ribs and fashioned and designed you and brought you to the man as a help meet (suitable to complete him).  When God took that rib out he closed up the flesh and did not replace it. 

You my sister are the "support" of the man. We will study this throughout the month, but for now let's look at the design that God purposely intended when he fashioned you.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE CONSTRUCTION

As you reflect back on the above scripture take a look at the construction of the woman.  God created all things and then noticed after He had made man that He was very lonely.  He also realized that none of the animals or creatures He had created were adequate or a suitable help meet for Adam.  He had to go a total different route. He went outside of the ordinary dirt creating to extraordinary to bring out that design.

The You which was called Woman.  

Let's discuss....

What was the process?

What specifically was used to fashion her? (Described in detail)

What does the term, "Bone of my Bones, Flesh of my Flesh" mean to you?

In this controversial topic which has some unique and special intricacies specific to you as a woman you will find every reason to appreciate your fine work of the master creator Himself.  You were not fashion as a dog, monkey or any other animal, but was taken from the man who by the way was formed after the image of God.   

You could ask many questions such as, why didn't He take an arm, a toe, finger or another part to form the woman.  While He must have had His reasons for using a rib, I am excited by the fact that He took a rib.  I see strength, sturdiness, fortitude, durability, toughness and longevity in that particular part.  

There are many things to take note of in the construction and design of the woman.  I see the fact that you were taken next to His heart so man can feel the closeness to their rib and woman.  I also see that you were taken from His side so you could always be at his side as a long lasting support and strength in the bad times and in times of sickness and life's challenges.  

You my sisters and women of all ages, cultures, race and religious backgrounds etc.. were uniquely designed and fashioned.  Today I encourage you to reflect on the construction of who you are and how every detail about you was fashioned unlike the man.   

Today's Assignment: 

Get a sheet of paper and jot down your answer or comment directly on this blog.

Think of yourself as a woman and make a list of the following:

1. All the things that you have in common with a man
2. Things that are different but common
3. Things that are uniquely given specifically and designed for you?

Secondly indicate how you feel about being designed and fashioned by God after reflecting on this post and today's scripture.  

Remember, you were not formed from the dust of the earth but fashioned by God's hand and constructed from His own image and blue print.  You were designed on purpose.  There's no other thing or person fashioned like you except after you reproduce.  

I encourage you to please follow this series and share your thoughts

God Bless You and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel