A Note from Chris Adams: Every once in a while, we need to evaluate why we serve in and through women’s ministry. It’s so much more than a position. It’s a calling both inside and outside the church. Read how Susan Lawrence, founder of Pure Purpose, discovered once again the bigger picture of ministering to women and serving Christ.
By Susan Lawrence
“I always thought women’s ministry was a waste of time—something I had no interest in or need for. Now I see it in a whole new light!”
I should have been pleased. I’ve been involved in women’s ministry for years, including training and supporting women’s ministry leaders for the past decade. Breakthroughs with those who doubt the value of women’s ministry should be cause for celebration because to be honest, they don’t come along too often. But this woman’s comment bothered me.
When I heard about some difficulties she and her husband were going through a few months ago, I called her several times to ask how I could help. I received several “thanks, but no thanks.” Then one day, my email chimed, and I saw a slightly open doorway to enter. She was apologetic and wrote that she’d understand if I couldn’t help. While she needed something beyond my expertise, I knew exactly who could help. By the week’s end, everything was taken care of that was needed. She sent profuse thanks to me in writing, but I hadn’t seen her in person…until she made the proclamation about her new perception about women’s ministry.
I’m glad she sees women’s ministry in a new light, but honestly, I didn’t help her because it’s my duty as a women’s ministry leader. I would have called her no matter what my position was. I’m not an obligatory servant; at least, that’s not my goal. I want to be a willing servant, reaching out, building relationships, meeting needs, and generously giving because of the One I serve, not because of a title beside my name.
I didn’t start in women’s ministry by volunteering for a team or event. While I didn’t realize it at the time, I started many years before that as God led me in and out of other women’s lives to help, invest, and encourage. He challenged, refined, and prepared me—before I even thought about women’s ministry. And someday, when I’m no longer officially involved in women’s ministry, He will continue to bring people into my life to help, invest in, and encourage…to challenge, refine, and prepare me. No matter how long I’m involved in women’s ministry, I will always be a woman in ministry.
The more I reflected on the woman’s comment, the more grateful I was. She spurred me to consider and reclaim why I’m involved in women’s ministry. Not everyone is going to understand what I do or why I do it. That’s okay. I’m the one who needs to understand what I do and why I do it. I need to keep my motives in check. I need to constantly invite God to keep my motives in check.
Why do you do what you do?
Susan Lawrence is a Women’s Ministry Consultant who is passionate about helping women lead and serve in healthy ways. Connect with her at Pure Purpose.
