How Families Can Receive Returnees From South Africa with Love
Returning home after being forced to leave South Africa can be an emotional and difficult experience. For some returnees, coming home may bring relief because they are reunited with family. For others, it may bring embarrassment, disappointment, financial pressure and uncertainty about what comes next.
This is where family matters.
The first few days and weeks after returning can shape how a person begins to rebuild. Families can either make the returnee feel like a failure, or remind them that home is still a place where they are loved, valued and accepted.
The Bible gives us principles that can guide families in creating that kind of welcome.
1. Welcome Them Before You Question Them
When someone returns, the natural reaction may be to ask:
“What happened?”
“Why were you sent back?”
“Where is the money you made?”
“What happened to your belongings?”
But sometimes, the person first needs to hear:
“Welcome home. We are glad you are here.”
The story can come later.
Jesus’ story of the prodigal son gives us a powerful picture of a father who saw his son returning and ran to welcome him.
“So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” — Luke 15:20 (NIV)
The father did not begin by interrogating his son.
He welcomed him.
Families can learn from this. Before asking what happened in South Africa, make sure the returnee knows that they are wanted at home.
2. Listen Without Turning Their Story Into a Courtroom
Some returnees may want to talk immediately. Others may need time.
Their experiences may involve difficult memories, loss, discrimination, unemployment, separation from loved ones or the sudden disruption of their lives.
Don’t force them to explain everything.
Instead, create an environment where they know:
“When you are ready to talk, I am here to listen.”
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” — James 1:19 (NIV)
Listening does not mean agreeing with everything they say.
It means giving them enough space to tell their story without immediately judging, correcting or blaming them.
Sometimes what a returnee needs most is not advice, they simply need someone who will listen.
3. Don’t Make Them Feel Like They Failed
One of the most painful things for a returnee may be feeling that they have disappointed their family.
Perhaps they left expecting to send money home. Perhaps relatives expected them to return with a car, build a house or start a business.
Instead, they have returned with very little.
This can create enormous shame.
Families should resist statements such as:
“You were in South Africa all those years and came back with nothing?”
Instead, ask:
“What can we do to help you start again?”
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
A family should not add to someone’s burden.
4. Give Them a Safe Place to Rebuild
Coming home does not automatically mean that everything is okay.
A returnee may be wondering:
- Where will I work?
- How will I support my children?
- What can I do now?
- Will people respect me?
- Can I start a business?
- What will my friends say?
- Have I lost everything I worked for?
Family can become the safe environment from which the person begins rebuilding.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Encouragement is not pretending that everything is fine, it is helping someone believe that their current situation is not the end of their story.
5. Don’t Turn Their Return Into Family Gossip
A returnee’s story belongs to them.
Before sharing their situation with neighbours, church members, friends or extended family, consider how that might affect them.
Imagine returning home already feeling embarrassed, only to discover that everyone in the community knows what happened to you.
Families should protect the dignity of their returning loved ones.
“Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)
Love does not expose someone’s vulnerability for entertainment.
Love protects. Instead of discussing the returnee behind their back, create a culture where their dignity is respected.
6. Don’t Only Give Them Food—Help Them Find Their Future
Practical support is important.
A family may provide food, accommodation, clothing or transport. But long-term support also means helping the returnee think about what comes next.
Ask:
“What skills did you gain?”
“What kind of work would you like to do?”
“What can we help you start?”
“Who can we connect you with?”
The returnee may have skills and experiences that can be valuable back home.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
Their journey may have been difficult, but it may also have given them skills, resilience and experience. Help them see what they still have, not only what they have lost.
7. Remind Them: They Still Belong
Perhaps the most important message a family can communicate is:
“You are still one of us.”
Circumstances may have changed.
Their finances may have changed.
Their plans may have changed.
But their value has not.
The Bible reminds us that our identity and worth ultimately come from God.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” — 1 John 3:1 (NIV)
A returnee should not be defined by deportation, unemployment, financial loss or what happened in South Africa. They are more than what happened to them. They are a person with dignity, gifts, relationships, dreams and a future.
A Final Word to Families
If someone you love has returned from South Africa, don’t make their homecoming another source of pain.
They may already be grieving a lost job, lost possessions, lost opportunities or a dream that did not work out as planned.
Let home be different.
Let it be the place where they can breathe.
Let it be the place where they are heard without judgment, supported without shame and encouraged to begin again.
They may have returned without everything they hoped for, but they have not returned without hope.
And sometimes, the first step toward rebuilding someone’s life is simply making sure they know:
“You are home. You are loved. You still belong.”
Feeling “behind” in life is a feeling, not a fact, manufactured almost entirely by comparison. The Bible reframes the whole question: you are not late, you are not defective, and you cannot fall behind a plan you did not write. These seven truths replace comparison anxiety with God’s timing, your God-given worth, and the freedom to run your own race.
Everyone seems to be ahead of you. The promotions, the weddings, the houses, the highlight reels. Scroll long enough and you start to believe the lie that you missed your moment. You didn’t. Here are seven truths that pull the plug on that feeling for good.
1. Your Pace Is Not Your Problem
Everyone seems to be ahead of you. Married, promoted, settled, thriving. The feed never stops reminding you. But “behind” is a feeling, not a fact, and comparison is where it is born.
Galatians 6:4-5 (NIV)
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.”
Close the app. Measure today against your own yesterday, not against a stranger’s curated best. Your load is yours to carry, and yours alone to be proud of.
2. Your Timing Isn’t Broken
You are not late. You are not early. You are exactly where a season placed you. The pressure to catch up assumes there is one universal schedule. There isn’t.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Winter is not a failed summer. If this is your waiting season, wait well. The harvest has its own calendar, and rushing it only ruins the crop.
3. The Highlight Reel Is Lying to You
Envy whispers that everyone else has it figured out. They don’t. You are comparing your raw footage to their final cut, and it is quietly eating you alive.
Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)
“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”
Notice the cost. Envy does not only steal your joy; it corrodes your health. Trade the scroll for gratitude and watch your shoulders drop.
4. You Were Made on Purpose
Feeling behind assumes you are a defective version of someone better. You are not a rough draft. You were authored with intention, detail, and delight.
Psalm 139:14 (NIV)
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Your worth was never tied to your milestones. Before the achievements, before the applause, you were already wonderfully made. Start there.
5. Your Future Is Already Mapped
The fear underneath “behind” is simple. What if I miss it? What if the good life passes me by? Scripture answers with a promise, not a panic.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
You cannot fall behind a plan you did not write. The same God who set the seasons is holding your future. Walk forward with open hands.
6. Contentment Is a Skill, Not a Mood
Contentment is not something you stumble into when life finally cooperates. Paul learned it in a prison cell. It is a muscle, trained in the gap between what you have and what you want.
Philippians 4:11 (NIV)
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
Practice it small today. Thank God for what is unfinished, for what is still in motion, for what has not arrived yet. Contentment grows where comparison used to live.
7. Run Your Own Race
Stop watching the lanes beside you. Runners who look sideways lose speed and lose heart. Your finish line is your own, and it is still ahead of you.
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Drop the weight of comparison. Fix your eyes forward. Perseverance, not pace, is what carries you home.
You Were Never Behind. You Were Comparing.
You were never behind. You were comparing your story to a stranger’s edit, your winter to someone else’s summer, your raw draft to their highlight reel. Timing is not your enemy. Envy is. Lay it down. Run your own race, at your own pace, held by a God who already knows how it ends. You are not late. You are right on time.
Motherhood is amazing, but let’s be real: it’s also hard. You love your kids, but sometimes it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Sleepless nights, endless to-do lists, constant worries about whether you’re doing enough… it can all start to crush your spirit.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even burned out, you are not alone. Millions of moms just like you experience these struggles, and God sees it all. The good news? His Word offers guidance, peace, and practical ways to care for your mental and emotional health while navigating the chaos of motherhood.
Here’s how you can protect your mental health, reclaim your peace, and find strength in God without feeling guilty for needing help.
1. Let God Be Your Strength
Verse: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13
You don’t have to be superhuman. God’s strength is bigger than your to-do list, bigger than your worries about the future, and bigger than any “perfect mom” standard on Instagram. Every time you feel drained, pause and let Him refill your energy.
Practical Tip: Start your day with a short prayer asking for patience and clarity. Even 2 minutes of focused breathing and prayer can shift your mindset.
2. Rest Isn’t Optional
Verse: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
You might feel guilty for taking a break, but rest is part of God’s plan. Sleep, a quiet cup of tea, or even scrolling through a devotional for 10 minutes is not laziness. Your mental health depends on it.
Practical Tip: Schedule “mini-rests” daily. Your children will benefit from a mom who’s recharged.
3. Replace Worry With Prayer
Verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6
When your mind starts racing with “what ifs,” stop and talk to God. Writing your worries down and praying over them can help you regain control of your thoughts.
Practical Tip: Keep a small journal. List your anxieties, and end each entry with a prayer of release.
4. Celebrate Your Small Wins
Verse: “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” — Proverbs 31:28
Your life may feel like a series of endless tasks, but each act of care matters. That snack you made, that bedtime story, that hug when your child was upset, God sees it.
Practical Tip: Reflect each night on 3 things you did well. Give yourself credit for the little victories.
5. Don’t Do Life Alone
Verse: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
Isolation can fuel anxiety. You’re allowed to lean on friends, family, or a church community. Talking openly about your struggles isn’t weakness, it’s strength.
Practical Tip: Join a moms’ group online or locally. Even sharing memes with other moms can be therapeutic!
6. Cast Your Anxiety on God
Verse: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
God wants you to give Him your worries, guilt, and stress. When you surrender these burdens, you free up space to enjoy your family, rest, and connect spiritually.
Practical Tip: Before bed, say a short prayer casting your stress onto God. Try: “God, I give You today’s worries. Help me rest in Your care.”
7. Focus on Hope and Purpose
Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11
Even when it feels like motherhood is endless work, God has a purpose for your journey. He’s shaping your character, your children, and your legacy.
Practical Tip: Make a vision board with your goals and prayers for your family. Seeing God’s promises visually can be incredibly motivating.
Final Thoughts
Being a mom doesn’t mean doing everything alone or perfectly. It means leaning on God, caring for your mental health, and accepting that you are human, and wonderfully so.
When you take moments to pray, rest, reflect, and reach out, you’re not just surviving motherhood, you’re thriving in it. And the best part? God is walking every step of the journey with you.
Many women, especially young women, quietly wrestle with this thought:
“Is being a woman a disadvantage?”
It can feel that way when:
- your voice is overlooked
- your abilities are doubted
- your safety feels fragile
- your value is reduced to appearance
- your timeline is controlled by social pressure
- your sacrifices go unnoticed
But Scripture tells a very different story. From the beginning, God established women with dignity, authority, purpose, and spiritual strength. Let’s walk through 7 Bible verses that speak directly to seasons when being a woman feels like a disadvantage.
1. Genesis 1:27 — Your Value Was Established at Creation
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (NIV)
Before society formed opinions about women, God formed identity. Both male and female were created in His image, equal in worth, equal in dignity, equal in spiritual value.
This means your value is not cultural, it is created. Not negotiated, declared. When the world minimizes women, creation itself speaks otherwise.
2. Judges 4:4–5 — God Raises Women Leaders
“Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.” (NIV)
Deborah was not hidden. She was not secondary. She was a national leader, judge, and prophet.
When leadership spaces feel closed to women, Deborah’s story reminds us: God is not limited by human bias. He appoints based on calling, not gender expectations.
Your leadership is not a mistake. Your voice is not out of place.
3. Psalm 139:14 — You Are Not a Design Error
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (NIV)
When being a woman feels like a burden instead of a blessing, this verse calls you back to truth: you are not an afterthought. Not an inferior version. Not a weaker model.
You are intentional design.
Your emotions, intuition, resilience, and nurturing strength are not flaws, they are features.
4. Luke 8:1–3 — Jesus Publicly Valued Women
“…the Twelve were with him, and also some women… These women were helping to support them out of their own means.” (NIV)
In a culture where women were often excluded, Jesus welcomed them into His mission circle. He taught them, traveled with them, and honored their contributions.
Jesus did not treat women as background characters, but as partners in purpose.
If you ever feel spiritually sidelined, remember: Jesus pulled women closer, not further away.
5. Proverbs 31:25 — Strength Is Feminine Too
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” (NIV)
Biblical womanhood is not a weakness. It is strength with dignity.
This woman is not fearful of the future, she faces it with confidence. Not because life is easy, but because her foundation is secure.
Strength is not unfeminine. Strength is biblical.
6. Galatians 3:28 — Your Spiritual Standing Is Equal
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Before God, your access, inheritance, and spiritual identity are not limited by gender.
You are not spiritually second-class. Not spiritually delayed. Not spiritually restricted.
In Christ, you stand fully included.
7. John 20:16–18 — A Woman First Carried the Resurrection Message
Jesus said to her, “Mary.” … Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” (NIV)
The first recorded witness and messenger of the resurrection was a woman.
At the most important announcement in history, Jesus chose a woman to carry the news.
When the world questions whether women should speak, lead, or proclaim truth, the resurrection story answers clearly.
Final Encouragement: When It Feels Hard to Be a Woman
Yes, challenges women face are real. Inequality, pressure, vulnerability, and misunderstanding exist. But disadvantage is not destiny.
Biblically:
- Women are image-bearers
- Leaders
- Witnesses
- Supporters of mission
- Carriers of strength
- Voices of truth
- Chosen messengers
When being a woman feels like a disadvantage, remember, in God’s story, women are never optional. They are essential.
We live in a world where almost everything is just a click away — opinions, substances, validation, or distractions. For the youth, the pressure to experiment, fit in, or numb out is massive. From parties to pills, vaping to pornography, hookup culture to hustler mindsets, there’s this silent rule that says, “Do what you want, no one cares.”
But you know what? God cares. And deep down, so do you. Here’s how you can stand firm and thrive in a culture that keeps telling you to let go.
1. 1 Corinthians 10:13 — “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind…”
You’re not alone in this.
Whether it’s the pressure to try drugs, get high to escape stress, or be someone you’re not just to fit in, you’re not weird or weak for struggling. Everyone faces temptation. The verse promises that God will always provide a way out. Sometimes that “way out” is a friend’s text, a parent’s question, or just that inner voice saying “Don’t do it.”
Story: Thomas tried weed at 16 because everyone at the party was doing it. He thought he’d be cooler, braver. But instead, he ended up anxious and ashamed. Years later, he discovered this verse and realized temptation didn’t define him, God had always offered a better choice.
2. Romans 12:2 — “Do not conform to the pattern of this world…”
The world screams, “Normalize it!”
God whispers, “Renew your mind.”
Peer pressure often starts with small things: music, jokes, drinks, risky DMs. But one compromise leads to another. This verse reminds us not to copy what the world says is okay. Transformation begins in the mind. What you feed your thoughts with — that’s what shapes your life.
Story: Margaret stopped following certain pages on Instagram — they weren’t evil, just misleading. After a month of feeding her mind differently, she felt lighter, freer, and more confident in who God said she was.
3. James 4:7 — “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
You have authority.
Temptation isn’t just a feeling — it’s spiritual warfare. You don’t fight it alone. Submitting to God isn’t weakness; it’s your superpower. The moment you decide to stand firm, hell trembles.
Story: Mike kept falling into late-night habits online. But once he started praying before going to bed and installing accountability apps, the grip lessened. When you resist consistently, the temptation doesn’t stick around.
4. Proverbs 1:10 — “My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.”
Not all friendships are safe.
Sometimes it’s not the drugs or the drinking — it’s the friend group behind it. God calls us to courage — to walk away from those leading us astray. It’s better to lose fake friends than to lose yourself.
Story: Jonathan left his crew after realizing they were slowly dragging him into a life he didn’t want. It hurt at first. But a few months later, he found real friends at church who uplifted him, not trapped him.
5. Galatians 5:1 — “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…”
Jesus didn’t die for you to live in chains.
Addiction is real — whether it’s substances, screens, sex, or approval. But freedom is not just possible — it’s promised. You’re not stuck. God’s power can break cycles that feel permanent.
Story: Grace was addicted to pills. She didn’t think prayer or therapy would work — until she tried both. Healing didn’t happen overnight, but every day, she felt the chains loosen.
6. 2 Timothy 2:22 — “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness…”
Run to something better.
Sometimes we focus too much on what to avoid and forget what we should chase: purpose, peace, community, God. You’re not just saying no to temptation — you’re saying yes to something way better.
Story: Trish stopped clubbing every weekend. Not because someone forced her, but because she found passion in leading youth worship. Her “no” gave birth to a bigger “yes.”
7. Psalm 119:9 — “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.”
The Bible is your map.
In a culture where boundaries are blurred, God’s Word becomes a GPS for purity, purpose, and peace. The more you read it, the more you recognize the lies you’ve been believing. Scripture rewires your heart.
Story: Morris began with one verse a day. Just one. A month later, he felt like he was finally walking in light after years of being lost in fog.
Final Thoughts: You Were Born to Stand Out
This “anything goes” generation will try to cancel your convictions, mock your morals, and twist your truth. But God called you to be different — not to judge, but to shine.
Temptation will always knock. But with God’s Word in your heart, community by your side, and the Spirit guiding your steps, you don’t have to open that door.
You are stronger than the pressure.
You are not alone.
You are chosen.
Struggling with more than just temptation? Discover how faith can help you overcome addiction. There’s hope beyond the habit. Learn how God’s power can help you overcome addiction
Our phones are practically an extension of our hands. TikTok, Instagram, YouTube — we scroll, we double tap, we post. But here’s a thought: what if every swipe, every story, every share could make a difference? What if your online presence could actually change someone’s day… or even their life?
The Bible doesn’t mention TikTok or trending hashtags, but it does give us timeless wisdom on how to live — and yes, that includes how we show up online.
Here’s how 7 powerful Bible verses can guide us from just scrolling to actually serving:
1. 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
Some people think you have to “grow up” to make an impact. Not true. Your voice matters now. The way you comment, the memes you post, the language you use in your captions — it all sets an example. Be the one who brings encouragement, not just more noise.
2. Ephesians 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.”
It’s so easy to roast someone online, join a cancel trend, or drop a “clap back” comment. But every word we post has power. What if we flipped it? What if your comments built people up instead of tearing them down? You might be the only kind word someone sees that day.
3. Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Social media can feel dark sometimes — cyberbullying, negativity, toxic trends. But light always wins over darkness. Your faith-filled posts, uplifting reels, and hopeful stories can shine like a beacon. Don’t hide your light. Someone out there needs to see it.
4. Proverbs 18:21 – “The tongue has the power of life and death.”
Think of your posts as seeds. Are you planting seeds of life or seeds of hurt? A single encouraging DM, a prayer shared in your stories, or a Scripture on your feed can breathe life into someone’s weary heart. Use your words to heal, not harm.
5. Colossians 3:17 – “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Yes — this even includes your TikToks. That trend you’re doing? That tweet you’re drafting? That bio on your profile? Everything online reflects who you are. Ask yourself: Does this honor God? Would I post this if Jesus followed me?(Spoiler: He does.)
6. Philippians 2:4 – “Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
It’s easy to post just for likes, clout, or validation. But what if you used your platform to notice others? Sharing a friend’s art, posting about a cause you care about, or raising awareness for someone in need — that’s serving with your feed.
7. Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Sometimes, you’ll post encouragement and it’ll feel like no one cares. You’ll share positive content and only get a few likes. But don’t quit. Your words, prayers, and kindness are making ripples you can’t see. Keep sowing good — God promises a harvest.
So… What Now?
Your online presence is powerful. It can tear down or build up, spread drama or share hope, fuel chaos or bring peace. Every post is a choice.
This month, try asking yourself before you hit “share”:
– Will this bring light?
– Will this lift someone up?
– Will this reflect the love of Jesus?
Because when we move from scrolling to serving, social media stops being just entertainment — it becomes ministry.
A Fresh Look for a Generation Seeking Real Faith
You’ve probably seen the list on a church wall, a t-shirt, or a Pinterest post:
Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-Control.
That’s the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).
But here’s the thing: these aren’t just “nice Christian traits” you try to copy. They’re evidence that something supernatural is growing inside you, something the Holy Spirit is actively forming. Let’s break them down one by one in a way that speaks to real life.
1. LOVE
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
We live in a world where love is often performative. It’s in captions and emojis, but not always in action. The Holy Spirit teaches us to love people even when they’re difficult, unlovable, or don’t benefit us.
Real love:
- Listens before speaking
- Forgives even when it hurts
- Stays when it’s easier to walk away
2. JOY
“Though you have not seen him, you love him… you are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” – 1 Peter 1:8
Joy is different from happiness. It’s not tied to a vibe, a relationship, or a goal. Joy is deep and steady.
You can be battling anxiety and still carry joy. You can be broke and still feel joy. Why? Because joy is rooted in who God is, not what life looks like.
3. PEACE
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Peace isn’t passive. It’s fierce trust in the middle of chaos.
For young people constantly hit with bad news, mental pressure, and overthinking, peace feels rare. But the Holy Spirit anchors us when the world spins. Peace shows up in how we handle pressure, stay grounded in prayer, and choose surrender over control.
4. PATIENCE
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2
We’re an instant generation, streaming, deliveries, dating apps. We’re wired for now.
But spiritual maturity grows in the slow seasons. Patience is learning to:
- Wait without whining
- Love people who don’t “get it” yet
- Trust God’s timeline, not your own
It’s not natural, but it’s powerful and deeply needed in a culture obsessed with speed.
5. KINDNESS
“God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.” – Romans 2:4
Kindness isn’t just random acts. It’s intentional compassion.
It’s DM-ing someone just to check in.
It’s being gentle when you have every reason to be cold.
It’s choosing not to clap back even when you could go viral.
Kindness is powerful because it reflects the kindness God showed us.
6. GOODNESS
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21
Goodness is about integrity when no one’s watching.
It’s not about being a “good person”, it’s about choosing what’s right, even when it costs you.
It’s:
- Being honest when you could cut corners
- Calling out injustice, even if it’s unpopular
- Living with purity in a world that celebrates compromise
7. FAITHFULNESS
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’” – Matthew 25:21
This one’s about showing up in relationships, in responsibilities, and in your walk with God.
Faithfulness says:
- “I’ll keep praying, even when I feel nothing.”
- “I’ll show up for my friends when it’s not convenient.”
- “I’ll follow through on what I said.”
In a culture that glorifies jumping ship, faithfulness is countercultural—and deeply beautiful.
8. GENTLENESS
“Let your gentleness be evident to all.” – Philippians 4:5
Gentleness isn’t weakness. It’s controlled strength.
In a world where loud = power, the Spirit teaches us a quieter strength.
Gentleness shows up when:
- You disagree without disrespecting
- You lead without dominating
- You correct without crushing
Jesus was gentle with the broken and we’re called to be like Him.
9. SELF-CONTROL
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
Without self-control, everything else crumbles.
It’s the Spirit saying:
- “Don’t send that text.”
- “Pause before you scroll.”
- “Say no when you know it’s not worth it.”
This fruit guards your peace, protects your witness, and empowers you to make decisions that align with your purpose not your impulse.
Final Thoughts: Fruit Takes Time
You don’t become a walking, talking Fruit Basket overnight.
But if you stay rooted in Jesus, the Holy Spirit will grow this fruit in you gradually, powerfully, and authentically.
You might not see it every day. But others will.
And in a world craving something real, the Spirit’s fruit is the loudest quiet message you’ll ever carry.
Ask Yourself:
- Which fruit comes easiest for me?
- Which one is God stretching in me right now?
- How can I lean into the Spirit more today?
Next Step:
If you’re serious about growth, start a “Fruit Check” journal every week, reflect on one fruit and ask:
“How did I live this out or not this week?”
Spiritual growth isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And you don’t walk it alone, the Spirit walks with you.
The Holy Spirit is not just an abstract concept or a mystical force; He is a personal and powerful presence in the life of every believer. Understanding His role and allowing Him to actively work in our lives is essential for spiritual growth and victorious Christian living. In this article, we will delve into the transformative influence of the Holy Spirit, supported by biblical narratives and reflections, and see how He continues to work in the lives of believers today.
1. The Holy Spirit as Our Guide
One of the most profound ways the Holy Spirit works in a believer’s life is by guiding us through the complexities of life. Jesus promised this guidance when He said:
John 16:13 (RSV) – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
Consider the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40). Philip, led by the Spirit, approached the chariot and explained the Scriptures, resulting in the eunuch’s conversion and baptism. This narrative highlights how sensitive obedience to the Spirit’s guidance can lead to profound outcomes.
Today, believers can experience the Holy Spirit’s guidance in everyday decisions—whether in career choices, relationships, or ministry. Many testify of the Spirit’s prompting to reach out to someone in need or speak a word of encouragement at just the right moment.
2. The Spirit Who Empowers
The empowerment of the Holy Spirit is vividly portrayed at Pentecost. After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples were unsure and fearful. But when the Spirit descended upon them, they were transformed into bold witnesses.
Acts 1:8 (RSV) – “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.”
Peter, who once denied Christ, boldly preached, leading to the conversion of about three thousand people (Acts 2:14-41). The Spirit’s power equips ordinary people to perform extraordinary acts of faith.
This empowerment is evident when believers boldly share their faith despite challenges or speak truth in situations where silence seems easier. The Spirit gives us courage to act according to God’s will.
3. The Spirit as Comforter
Life’s challenges can leave us weary and disheartened. The Holy Spirit, however, comes as a Comforter, assuring us of God’s presence in our pain.
John 14:16-17 (RSV) – “And I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth.”
When Paul faced persecution and hardship, he found comfort through the Spirit’s inner strengthening (2 Corinthians 1:3-5). This divine comfort enabled him to endure and continue his mission.
In modern life, believers find comfort when overwhelmed by grief, loss, or uncertainty. Through prayer and worship, the Holy Spirit brings peace that surpasses understanding, reminding us that we are never alone.
4. The Spirit of Transformation
Paul emphasizes the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in believers:
Romans 8:11 (RSV) – “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit which dwells in you.”
When the Spirit transforms a believer, old habits, sins, and weaknesses are replaced with new life, marked by the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This transformation is not instantaneous but a continual process as we yield to His work.
In today’s context, transformation might involve overcoming addiction, finding hope amidst despair, or growing in patience and love. Believers experience gradual yet profound change as they submit daily to the Spirit’s leading.
5. The Holy Spirit and Fellowship
Unity among believers is one of the key works of the Holy Spirit:
1 Corinthians 12:13 (RSV) – “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
The early church exemplified this unity. Despite differences in background and social status, they were of one heart and mind (Acts 4:32). The Holy Spirit cultivates a spirit of love and collaboration within the body of Christ.
In today’s diverse church communities, the Spirit continues to break down barriers of race, culture, and background, fostering unity and love among believers. Small groups, communal worship, and service projects often become places where the Spirit knits hearts together.
6. The Spirit of Intercession
One of the profound ways the Holy Spirit helps believers is through intercession. When we face situations where words fail us, the Spirit steps in, praying on our behalf.
Romans 8:26 (RSV) – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words.”
This powerful assurance means that even in moments of despair or confusion, when prayer seems impossible, the Holy Spirit prays for us according to the will of God. Modern believers often experience this in moments of deep worship or crisis when words are inadequate. Trusting that the Spirit intercedes brings comfort and peace.
7. The Spirit as the Giver of Spiritual Gifts
The Holy Spirit equips believers with spiritual gifts to build up the church and serve God effectively. These gifts are diverse, ranging from wisdom and knowledge to healing and prophecy.
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (RSV) – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
Believers are encouraged to seek and develop their spiritual gifts, using them to serve others and glorify God. Whether in church leadership, creative ministries, or everyday acts of kindness, the Spirit empowers believers to make a difference.
Living by the Spirit
The Christian life is not merely about following rules but about being led by the Spirit. It requires daily surrender and openness to His leading. As we allow the Spirit to work within us, our lives bear witness to His power and grace. From guiding and comforting to empowering and transforming, the Holy Spirit is actively involved in every aspect of a believer’s journey.
Today, believers can cultivate sensitivity to the Spirit through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and staying connected to a faith community. As we walk in step with the Spirit, we reflect Christ’s love and power in a world in need of hope.
After the trauma of the crucifixion, the disciples were locked away, afraid, confused, and uncertain about what the future held. But on the evening of that first Easter Sunday, everything changed when Jesus stood among them and said:
“Peace be with you!” — John 20:19 (NIV)
These words were more than a greeting. They were a divine declaration: peace had triumphed over fear, and life had conquered death.
1. Peace That Calms Fear
The disciples were hiding behind locked doors, fearing for their lives. But the presence of Jesus shattered their fear.
“Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.” — John 20:20 (NIV)
The Resurrection reminds us that no matter what we face—uncertainty, loss, danger—Jesus brings peace that surpasses our fear.
2. Peace That Comes from Reconciliation
The cross was not just about suffering; it was about reconciling humanity with God. Jesus’ resurrection is the seal of that reconciliation.
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1 (NIV)
We are no longer enemies of God. We are at peace with Him—fully forgiven and fully accepted.
3. Peace That Dwells Within
Jesus promised a peace that’s not dependent on circumstances but rooted in Him.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27 (NIV)
This was a promise He fulfilled after rising from the grave. His peace becomes a permanent presence in our hearts.
4. Peace That Guards Our Minds
We are often bombarded with anxious thoughts. But resurrection peace acts like a shield.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
God’s peace doesn’t always change our situation, but it changes us in the midst of it.
5. Peace That Leads to Purpose
In John 20:21, Jesus repeats, “Peace be with you!” and then says:
“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
Peace isn’t just for comfort—it’s preparation for mission. We are sent out as ambassadors of this peace to a world that desperately needs it.
6. Peace Through the Holy Spirit
Jesus breathed on them and said:
“Receive the Holy Spirit.” — John 20:22 (NIV)
The Holy Spirit becomes the continual source of peace, power, and presence in our lives. It is the Spirit that produces peace as fruit within us:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” — Galatians 5:22 (NIV)
7. Peace in a Troubled World
We live in a world that is anything but peaceful. But the resurrection gives us hope beyond this life.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33 (NIV)
The risen Christ gives us a durable peace—one that holds even in chaos, grief, or conflict.
Final Thoughts
Jesus didn’t wait for perfect conditions to bring peace. He entered a locked room, full of fear, and filled it with His presence. Today, He still does the same.
Resurrection peace is not passive, it’s powerful, purposeful, and personal.
Will you let His peace rule in your heart today?
Avoiding stress during exams is essential for maintaining focus, performing well, and staying healthy. Here’s a biblical, practical, and actionable guide to managing stress effectively during exam time:
1. Start with Prayer and Trust in God
- Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Tip: Whenever you feel overwhelmed, pause and pray. Surrender your worries to God.
Action:
- Start and end your study sessions with a short prayer.
- Keep a prayer journal where you express your concerns and ask God for peace.
2. Stay Organized with a Study Plan
- 1 Corinthians 14:40 – “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
Tip: A well-organized study schedule prevents last-minute cramming and reduces stress.
Action:
- Break your syllabus into manageable chunks, covering a little every day.
- Use tools like a study timetable or to-do list to track progress.
3. Take Care of Your Body
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit… Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
Tip: Eating well, exercising, and sleeping enough will help your brain function better.
Action:
- Exercise: Take short walks or do light stretches between study sessions.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to improve concentration.
- Eat Nutritious Foods: Include fruits, vegetables, and water to keep your energy up.
4. Take Breaks and Rest
- Exodus 20:8-10 – “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy…”
Tip: Rest is essential to recharge your brain and avoid burnout.
Action:
- Take 10-15 minute breaks every hour to relax your mind.
- Set aside one day a week to rest and engage in something you enjoy.
5. Avoid Comparison with Others
- Galatians 6:4 – “Each one should test their own actions… without comparing themselves to someone else.”
Tip: Comparing yourself with classmates can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Focus on your progress and efforts.
Action:
- Remind yourself that your journey is unique, and God has a plan for you.
- Celebrate small achievements along the way, like completing a topic or practice test.
6. Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
- Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Tip: When stress creeps in, breathe deeply and meditate on God’s presence.
Action:
- Deep Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 4 seconds. Repeat several times.
- Play soft, relaxing worship music while you study or during breaks.
7. Stay Positive and Speak Life Over Yourself
- Proverbs 18:21 – “The tongue has the power of life and death…”
Tip: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations rooted in Scripture.
Action:
- Speak aloud Scriptures like: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
- Avoid saying things like “I will fail” or “This is too hard.” Instead, say, “I am prepared, and God is with me.”
8. Engage in Fellowship with Others
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “Two are better than one… If one falls down, the other can help him up.”
Tip: Talk to family, friends, or mentors when you feel overwhelmed.
Action:
- Join a study group for encouragement.
- Share your concerns with someone who can pray with you and provide guidance.
9. Limit Distractions and Focus on the Present
- Matthew 6:34 – “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
Tip: Avoid worrying about the future or dwelling on past mistakes. Stay focused on what you can do today.
Action:
- Set specific times to study without distractions from social media or phone notifications.
- Tackle one subject or task at a time to avoid overwhelm.
10. Trust God with the Outcome
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…”
Tip: After you’ve done your best, trust God to handle the rest.
Action:
- After each exam, pray and thank God for the strength to finish.
- Avoid overanalyzing your performance, trust that God’s plan is perfect.
Conclusion
Managing stress during exams is about trusting God, planning wisely, taking care of yourself, and staying focused on the present. Remember that success is not just about grades—it’s about learning, growing, and relying on God’s strength. Following this guide will help you stay calm, focused, and productive throughout the exam season. You’ve got this! God is with you every step of the way.
The season of harvest is a time of gratitude, reflection, and abundance. For farmers, it signifies the end of a season of hard work, when crops are gathered, and the fruits of labor are celebrated. Spiritually, it reminds us of God’s faithfulness and the importance of sowing seeds of righteousness in our lives. The Bible speaks of harvest not just as an agricultural event but as a symbol of spiritual growth, provision, and God’s blessings.
Here are seven Bible verses that reflect the beauty, meaning, and significance of harvest time:
1. Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Just as the harvest comes after a season of hard labor, our spiritual harvest will come if we remain steadfast in our efforts to live righteously. God’s timing is perfect, and we must trust that our diligence will bear fruit.
2. Matthew 9:37-38
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”
Here, Jesus calls on us to be workers in this field, sharing the good news of salvation and helping to bring others into the kingdom of God. Harvest time is not just about receiving but also giving — sharing God’s love with the world.
3. Psalm 126:5-6
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.”
We may endure seasons of sorrow, but God promises that those who faithfully sow, even through hardship, will one day reap a harvest of joy. There is hope in the midst of trials, and the harvest will be a time of celebration.
4. Proverbs 10:5
“He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.”
Just as a farmer must be attentive during the harvest to gather his crops, we must be alert and ready to seize the spiritual opportunities that God places before us. Laziness and neglect lead to missed blessings, but diligence ensures that we reap the benefits of our labor.
5. 2 Corinthians 9:10
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.”
God is the provider of all things, and He ensures that those who sow will have what they need to reap a harvest. Not only does He provide materially, but He also increases the harvest of righteousness in our lives, enabling us to grow in character, faith, and good works. Our trust in God’s provision is important to experiencing His abundance.
6. James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”
When we sow seeds of peace and righteousness, we reap a harvest of goodness and integrity. Just as the farmer carefully chooses what to plant, we must be mindful of the seeds we sow in our relationships and daily actions.
7. John 4:35
“Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”
The time for action is now, not later. The fields are ripe, and God is calling us to step into His work, sharing His love and truth with those who are ready to receive it. There is an urgency in the harvest, and we are called to respond.
Conclusion
Harvest time is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the spiritual principles of sowing and reaping. Whether we are harvesting crops or gathering the fruits of our spiritual labor, we are called to trust in God’s provision and timing. As we reflect on these Bible verses, may we be inspired to continue sowing seeds of righteousness, peace, and faithfulness, knowing that in due season, we will reap a bountiful harvest.
Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially for young people who are still finding their way. The Bible offers timeless wisdom and guidance that can help shape a fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are some key Biblical tips for young people:
1. Seek Wisdom and Understanding
Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
The pursuit of wisdom is highly valued in the Bible. Wisdom helps in making informed decisions, understanding the world better, and living a life that is pleasing to God. Young people are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding, not only through formal education but also through life experiences and learning from others.
2. Honor Your Parents
Ephesians 6:1-3 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”
Respecting and honoring parents is a fundamental principle in the Bible. It fosters healthy family relationships and sets a foundation for a respectful attitude towards authority and elders.
3. Guard Your Heart
Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
The heart, in Biblical terms, is the center of one’s being, encompassing emotions, desires, and thoughts. Guarding your heart means being mindful of what influences you—your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It involves being cautious about the company you keep, the content you consume, and the activities you engage in.
4. Flee from Temptation
1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
Temptations are a part of life, but the Bible reassures that there is always a way to overcome them. Young people are encouraged to recognize their weaknesses, seek God’s strength, and make conscious efforts to avoid situations that might lead to sin.
5. Develop a Prayerful Life
Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Prayer is a powerful tool for maintaining a close relationship with God. It helps in finding peace, gaining strength, and seeking guidance. A prayerful life enables young people to stay connected to their faith and find solace in difficult times.
6. Cultivate Good Friendships
Proverbs 13:20 – “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
The company you keep significantly influences your character and decisions. The Bible encourages surrounding yourself with wise and good-hearted individuals who uplift and encourage you to grow in faith and virtue.
7. Serve Others
Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
Service to others is a core principle in Christianity. It teaches humility, compassion, and selflessness. Young people are encouraged to look beyond their own needs and contribute positively to the lives of others.
Conclusion
The Bible offers invaluable guidance for young people striving to live meaningful and virtuous lives. By seeking wisdom, honoring parents, guarding their hearts, fleeing from temptation, developing a prayerful life, cultivating good friendships, serving others, living with integrity, trusting in God’s plan, and staying humble, young people can navigate the complexities of life with faith and purpose.
Come feel Africa’s rhythm! Its heart tells stories of winning, strength, and togetherness. As the sun shines on its big lands and lively cultures, we’re on the edge of Africa Day. It’s a party that goes beyond borders, celebrating what it means to be African.
A – Abundance of Blessings
Africa is blessed with natural wonders and resources, reflecting God’s abundant provision. Psalm 68:19 reminds us, “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.”
F – Faithful Foundations
Africa’s history is intertwined with faith, from the ancient civilizations to modern-day believers. Hebrews 11:1 inspires us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
R – Richness of Diversity
Africa’s diverse peoples and cultures showcase the beauty of God’s creation. Galatians 3:28 proclaims, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
I – Inheritance of Identity
Africa’s heritage is a testament to the enduring legacy of its people. Psalm 16:6 assures us, “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”
C – Call to Community
Africa’s communal spirit fosters unity and solidarity among its inhabitants. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
A – Affirmation
The Bible affirms the inherent value and dignity of every individual, echoing the principle of ubuntu prevalent in many African cultures.”So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” – Genesis 1:27
As we journey through the spiritual essence of AFRICA, let us embrace its blessings, celebrate its diversity, and honor its heritage. For in this vast and vibrant continent, we discover echoes of God’s faithfulness, reminders of our shared humanity, and glimpses of His divine purpose for all creation. Let us unite in prayer, as Psalm 133:1 proclaims, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
How does the Bible view women? At face value, some of its messages and examples can seem oppressive or devaluing. But when you learn more about how Jesus responded to the Bible’s historical and cultural context, you may rethink your first impressions. Christ entered into a specific time and culture that had assumptions very different from ours. How can understanding the biblical context inform our reading? How can the context help us to better understand who Jesus is—what he values, loves, and expects of his followers? Take a look, traveling all the way back to the culture Jesus entered.
How the Greeks Viewed Women
Let’s begin with the philosophers. Writers and thinkers often infuse a culture with certain beliefs—and this was especially so in the Greco-Roman world. When examined closely, some of their ideas may seem surprisingly antiquated to the modern reader.
For example, the revered philosopher Plato believed that women should be confined to the home while men tended to the business of state and commerce. Aristotle went even further, teaching that women were inferior to men, incapable of abstract thought, and emotionally volatile. Thus husbands and fathers were to rule over their wives and daughters. This thinking reflects the basic attitude toward women during the classical period.
How did these attitudes affect a woman’s life? The picture is not a pretty one. A young Greek girl is routinely married off to an older man. Her husband is free to take a concubine, and romantic love is not expected within marriage. Her role is to bear and raise children and run the household. She will rarely leave the house. Her education is limited to learning domestic tasks. She is not permitted to vote or hold property. Why would she be? As Euripides the playwright notes, “A woman is handicapped by intellect.” Thucydides helps him along by writing, “The name of a decent woman, like her person, should be shut up in the house.”
How the Jews Viewed Women
By Jesus’s time Greek ideas—including these ideas about women—had gradually crept into Jewish culture, despite Old Testament writings to the contrary. In the creation account in Genesis, God creates human beings as both male and female, giving them co-equal stewardship over the earth (Genesis 1:26-30). Throughout the Old Testament, women are given equal access to God’s law and held equally responsible to keep it.
The Old Testament record is replete with women whose great courage often surpasses that of the men around them. The stories of Miriam, Rahab, Ruth, Deborah, Hannah, Abigail, and Esther are prime examples of women whose insight and fortitude greatly influence the biblical narrative and the way God’s people understood themselves.
The Jewish understanding of women was so affected by exile, conquest, and trade that by Jesus’s time women were discouraged from studying Torah, God’s law, and encouraged to stay home to fulfill household duties. They attended synagogue assemblies seated separately from the men. The Greek-educated Jewish philosopher Philo, a contemporary of Jesus, saw women as having weak judgment and considered them unfit to learn the law. Some rabbis even went so far as to encourage men to limit their conversations with their own wives. What was the point of talking to someone with little knowledge of the law?
How Jesus Viewed Women
Into this distortion of God’s original intent for women comes a new teacher, the rabbi called Jesus of Nazareth. What do we know about Jesus’s relationships with women? Did he hold the same opinions as his culture? Let’s take a look at a few of his encounters with women.
Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman in public (John 4:4-30)
Jesus shocks the woman at the well by asking her for a drink. Thus he steamrolls over cultural taboos against men speaking to women as well as Jewish prejudice against Samaritans. “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?”
Jesus then reveals himself to her as the Messiah and the giver of the living water for which she longs.
Jesus teaches a woman one-on-one (Luke 10:38-42)
Women were not expected to study Torah, yet this renegade rabbi singles out one woman and opens Scripture to her. Mary “sat down at the feet of the Lord and listened to his teaching.” This position was that of the traditional rabbinic student.
When her sister complains about needing help, Jesus tells her that “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Jesus comforts a widow and confronts death (Luke 7:11-17)
“Don’t cry,” Jesus says to a grieving widow whose son lies dead in his coffin. He touches the coffin, defying ceremonial law. Jaws drop in amazement as the young man sits up and begins to speak. Jesus gives the widow’s son back to her, alive and well.
Jesus touches an “unclean” woman (Luke 8:43-48)
Ceremonially unclean due to a chronic hemorrhage, a woman touches the hem of Jesus’ cloak. “Daughter,” Jesus speaks tenderly. “Your faith has healed you. Shalom.”
Jesus touches an infirm woman (Luke 13:10-16)
The religious leaders object to Jesus’s laying his healing hands on a crippled woman on the Sabbath.
“You hypocrites!” Jesus does not mince words. “Any one of you would untie your ox or your donkey from the stall and take it out to give it water on the Sabbath.Now here is this descendant of Abraham whom Satan has kept in bonds for eighteen years; should she not be released on the Sabbath?”
Jesus deals with a woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11)
The woman’s accusers are silenced by Jesus’s words, “Whichever one of you has committed no sin may throw the first stone at her.” But he is gentle in his conversation with her.
Jesus allows Mary to anoint him (John 12:1-8)
When people are horrified at Mary’s extravagant outpouring of love, Jesus silences them all. Rather than rebuking her for touching him in this intimate way, he lavishes high praise on her. “Leave her alone; she’s anointing me for burial. This story will be told wherever the Gospel is preached.”
Jesus appears first to a woman after his Resurrection (John 20:11-18)
Although women were considered to be unreliable witnesses in court, Jesus assigns Mary Magdalene the task of being the first witness to the Resurrection.
Scripture’s Good News for Women
So what did Jesus really think of women? Did he touch them? Did he talk with them? Did he teach them? Did he give equal moral standing with men? Did he value them?
The record speaks for itself. First-century women in Palestine were second-class citizens. Sadly, some church leaders have still viewed and treated women in this way. But Jesus turned the tables on his culture, and his example calls us to do the same. Again and again, Jesus affirmed women’s value and dignity.
As the apostle Paul affirms in Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV): “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”