International Women’s Day – We are One!

by Carley Cooper 

Galatians 3:26-28 (NKJV) ~~ "For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.  For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.


International Women's Day 2014

Today is International Women’s Day.  Did you even know that?  Many people don’t even think about it.  Some don’t know about it.  Other’s just don’t care.  This is an important day because it helps bring awareness that women, when united; are strong, valuable, accomplished, and important.

What is IWD?

International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8th every year, actually has a rather long history according to the International Women’s Day website, and dates back to the early 1900s.  The focus of IWD according to Wikipediaranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political, and social achievements.

Why is IWD Important?

Here  in the twenty-first century women have come a long way from the days when we were not even classified as human beings.  In most cultures around the world, especially here in North America, we are getting closer and closer to being equal to men. 

However, we are not there yet, and certainly not in the minds of everyone.  In some other cultures around the world women are still not even permitted to walk side by side with a man.  They’re not allowed to speak with a male who is not a family member, in public. 

Then, there’s the sex-slave industry.  Yes, it is an industry; it really is that big, even here in North America.  I have to say that when I first realized this, it was a huge shock to me.  I guess I was rather naive but I really thought those kinds of things were in days long gone, and only in third-world countries.  I believed that today’s ‘civilized culture’ was ‘better than that’; that we had surely grown and matured since then.  But, apparently not, because it is still a big problem today, and I guarantee it’s in your city!  

I think this is a significant day for women around the world.  It is important that we are seen and heard; to have our rights and needs be met, and to have our accomplishments noted and rewarded.  And, I believe this is the case for women in all cultures.  

Who are Women, Really?

But, what does scripture say about women? 

Proverbs 31:25 (NKJV) says “Strength and honor are her clothing; She shall rejoice in time to come.” 

This means that women are capable of being strong under pressure.  Women with this quality will rejoice over her accomplishments and relationships if she stays honorable.  

Proverbs 3:15-18 (NKJV) says "She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.  Length of days is in her right hand, in her left hand riches and honor.  Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.  She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her."

To both God and man women are very valuable.  She is worth more than all that man can want.  Godly women are pleasant and peaceful.  They are strong and deeply rooted like a tree of life.  She supports those around her when they need her and doesn’t fall apart under too much stress. 

Genesis 1:27 (NKJV) says “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

Women are created in God’s own image; just like the male half of the species!  We were created in love by God, and for loving Him, just like men were.  The qualities and characteristics of women come equally as much from God as those of our male counterparts. 

Galatians 3:26-28 (NKJV) ~~ "For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.  For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Women, just like men, are children of God through faith.  We are all equal in God’s eyes through Christ.  We are His children, and part of the church of Christ.  We are capable, strong, accomplished, honorable, valuable, peaceful, supportive, and created in God’s image; just like men.  Most of all we are loved by Him, just like men.  We are not only strong and one, as a whole; but one with Him, just like men!

Let’s Pray

Dear God ~~ Wonderful, caring, loving Father.  You made each and every one of us in Your image.  You did that out of love for us, so that You can love us and we can love you in return.  Why is it that so many people don’t consider women equal to the rest of the world?  Are we, deep down, competing for Your love?  Thank You, for the faith that we have, that makes us all one in Christ.  One day we will all be with You, where everyone is equal and loved.  Please help us to remember that always.  Help us to treat each other with respect and love as Jesus loves us. I pray in Jesus name, AMEN

Now It’s Your Turn

Thoughts?  Questions?  Want to share your story?  Ask for prayer? Please share in the comments section.

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