The Faithful Few

One of our goals in women’s ministry is to serve and build up the women of our church body. As we plan for Bible studies and others women’s events for the coming year, we try to consider women in all stages and walks of life: younger women or older women; women who are single and those who are married; career women or stay-at-home moms; women with special needs, etc.  As much as possible, we want our studies and events to be all-inclusive, open and applicable to all women. To that end, last year we added two regular Saturday morning events during the year, hoping to draw in those women who are unable to join us for events taking place during the week. Also, for that reason, the same women’s Bible study is offered both morning and evening to accommodate working women and stay-at-home moms. Our prayer is that the options available would draw in women “on the fringes.”

But at a recent leadership meeting, we were encouraged with this:  “Work with what you have.”  Yes, we want our women’s ministry to accommodate as many women as possible. We want to be continually drawing new women, helping them get excited about the Word of God and the fellowship and accountability of studying in a group setting with other women. We need to be inviting and encouraging women to attend. However, our focus should be on those who are coming, who have already shown their desire to grow spiritually by being there.

I think of Jesus, who ministered to all who came his way.  But His efforts were centered on the 12 men the Father had given Him to disciple and prepare and raise up.

If God has given you five women who consistently attend your Bible study, work with them. Teach them. Disciple them. Encourage them. Concentrate on depth of ministry, not width.  Work with what you have.

Burdens? What Burdens?

What burdens you? We have family cares and worries, jobs, health issues, heavy responsibilities, even bad habits and besetting sin that weigh us down.  One of the interesting things about the Christian life is what the Bible has to say about burdens.  We are to cast all of our burdens on Him, because He cares for us (I Peter 5:7).  If we are heavy-laden, Jesus tells us to come to Him and we’ll find rest because His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30). He wants to carry our load for us.  We are told not to worry, but to pray, and He will give us peace (Philippians 4:6-7).  And of course, Hebrews 12:1-2 reminds us that we are to lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us so that we can run the race, unencumbered.  Sounds like God wants us free of any burdens that could overwhelm us and slow our progress.

Oops!  Not all burdens!  There is a burden we are to carry.  Galatians 6:1-2 reminds us of our responsibility toward others, to remind and restore those who do carry burdens.  And then?  “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” As Christian women, and in ministry, we need to be obedient in giving Him our burdens  so we are able to help our sisters with their burdens.