The CORE Approach®

Women and Faith: What a Journey!!
Cindy Scheetz

Recently I was asked about the importance of faith in the lives of women. That question caused me to reflect on what, if anything, is unique about a woman's faith life. My search started with an examination of both key words: "woman" and "faith". Personally, I know that my faith in God and desire to serve Him are the highest priorities of my life. Living out my faith is an exciting journey that leads me closer and closer to the heart of God. But it's not an easy trip!! The "road" has included abundant joys and blessings, but I have also experienced the "potholes" of trials and the "detours" caused by difficult circumstances. Yet I would not turn back, not for one minute. For His grace has granted me a sense of peace and confidence that He will work all things for good.

I went on to consider the uniqueness of being a "woman", specifically as it pertains to a life of faith and service. First, women clearly have a need for friendship. They seek close friends that provide emotional support and encouragement in an environment of mutual honesty and trust. Women who include Christ or their faith in God in their friendship are even more blessed. These very special relationships may start out with one woman mentoring or providing spiritual guidance to the other. I have two such friends in my life and they are more precious to me than you can imagine. In one instance I started out as the "protégé" and in the other as the "mentor". I have found that as each friendship evolved, it became more of an even "give and take" in terms of who was providing guidance, advice, encouragement or whatever the other needed at the time. I truly believe that friendship is one of the best catalysts of spiritual growth that God can provide to us.

Second, women take on multiple roles and responsibilities. Many women are wives and mothers and have demanding careers. We strive to be excellent in all these areas of our lives and find that, in order to keep up, we neglect ourselves and our needs. In addition to the roles I have already mentioned, many women help care for elderly parents, participate in church and community activities and the list goes on. Too many women are exhausted with no rest in sight. We need to find the rest that only God can provide.

And third, women are very often the catalysts for change in their homes and churches. Hopefully, they can generate a positive influence. For example, women usually determine whether or not a family attends church. Women frequently set the priorities in a household. In addition, more and more women are single mothers, thus making most or all of the decisions regarding their children. Clearly, mothers have a key role in determining the future of our society. Women must develop the strength to deal with this responsibility, and for me there is no better source than the strength that our Heavenly Father provides when I rely on Him.

In my life, the more overwhelmed I get, the more I turn to my faith. It seems that in desperation, God can finally reach me, elevating me to new heights of communion with Him. A woman and her faith are intertwined; I think that being a woman has led me to a strong faith and my faith has made me a strong woman. I can't imagine my life without the Lord and my future looks so bright because of His light.

If you are a woman looking for ways to grow spiritually and ways to better cope with the many challenges of your life, I strongly suggest participating in a variety of Christian activities. Find ways to "fill your spiritual fuel tank" so that you have the energy for the next phase of your journey. It is essential that you and God spend time alone together. Try to schedule at least a few minutes each day to pray and read the Bible or a short devotion. It is just as important that you worship God in a community of believers. Church attendance is vital, but I have also found that larger events such as Christian concerts and conferences are very powerful. For He promised us: "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20. Imagine the power of His presence when hundreds and thousands gather in His name!

God bless you as you continue on your journey! And please remember to celebrate life and enjoy yourself on the way!!!

This article has focused on women, and is written from my perspective as a Christian woman. Veris Associates fully recognizes and supports that there are faiths other than Christianity practiced, and seeks your input and perspective on spirituality, strength and change in your life.

In addition to any comments from female readers, we invite male readers of this newsletter to write to us at info@verisassociates.com and give their perspective. Why is your faith important to you as a man? What is unique about a male's faith? We would be interested in your thoughts.

-Cindy Scheetz