Women have been blessed by God with the capacity, will, and fortitude to lead and have an impact whatever the season or situation. The leadership journey for many women, despite God’s call and enabling, has been demanding and difficult. We have had to contend with systemic barriers and resistance. It is amazing that so many women have triumphed and continue to make significant and life-changing contributions in every sphere of life and ministry.
This discussion of women in leadership is not being done in abstraction. The focus is our journey, the qualities that define our success, and the ways we can inspire others to follow in our footsteps. Our stories and experiences underscore the undeniable truth: when women lead, everyone benefits.
Our roles in church and in corporate space mirror the challenges and triumphs of biblical women who faced adversity. By drawing lessons from these women, others can find a roadmap for success despite harsh conditions, developing fundamental leadership characteristics, leading our families and communities to Jesus Christ, and inspiring other women to achieve greatness.
Esther: Courage in Uncertainty
Esther’s story is a testament to the power of courage and strategic action. As a Jewish queen in a Persian empire, she risked her life to advocate for her people. Despite the odds, she utilized wisdom, humility, and careful planning to achieve her goals (see Esther 4:16).
In the church, women often find themselves navigating spaces that demand courage akin to Esther’s. Similarly, in the corporate world, they may be the “only” in a room, fighting for representation and equity.
The Esther model demonstrates the importance of courage in advocacy. Women are called upon to speak up for others even in daunting and life-threatening circumstances. Esther anchored her decisions in prayer and fasting being fully aware that there was a Divine power that was bigger than all human principalities and powers.
Job’s Wife: Strength in Hardship
Job’s wife is often remembered for her moment of doubt (see Job 2: 9). In fact, we do not even know her name. Her story reflects human frailty and the need for strength and courage in the face of hardship. But somehow, we never associate the virtuous woman with Job’s wife. Many of us do not like Job’s wife. We sympathize with his plight but have no pity for his wife in her moment of trial and weakness. While Job is victorious, she is shamed for her frailty.
Job’s wife belonged to a family of great wealth, stability, and prosperity. However, her material security was violently removed, her children killed, and the breadwinner of the family now ill and was going to die, or so it seemed.
Job’s wife reminds us not to be afraid to show weakness. She teaches us to acknowledge when faithlessness comes knocking. As we reflect on Job’s wife, we see the need to have a prayer network in place, a support group who will pray for us, weep with us, and stay with us in the most difficult moments of life. Remember, Job’s restoration was hers also.
Mary, Mother of Jesus: Sacrifice in Leadership
Mary’s leadership is defined by her unwavering faith, humility, and willingness to embrace a mission that demanded sacrifice. From the moment of the angel’s announcement to the crucifixion of her son, Mary demonstrated unparalleled strength and grace (see Luke 1:29).
Her example offers valuable lessons for women striving to lead in church and in corporate spaces. Mary’s belief in her divine calling sustained her. Leaders need a clear sense of purpose to guide their actions. Mary was also a nurturer, she nurtured Jesus. Leaders must recognize and foster talent in others. Mary responded to challenges without compromising her dignity—she responded with composure, confidence, and faith.
Conclusion
Esther, Job’s wife, and Mary, mother of Jesus, offer timeless lessons for women navigating the intersection of courage, strength, sacrifice, and leadership. Their stories remind us that success requires endurance and an unwavering belief in Jesus Christ. These qualities are as relevant today as they were in biblical times, guiding women to lead with integrity and impact.
As women leaders, to truly break barriers and lead effectively, we must build bridges, embrace a servant-leader mindset, nurture growth and success—lifting other women to the next level. The goal is not to have our names etched on a boardroom door or a church plaque but to leave a legacy of empowerment and transformation that continues long after we have moved on.
By embodying these principles, women can continue to inspire generations and lead with transformative impact in both church and business. Let our leadership be a beacon fire that guides others, ensuring that our influence resonates far beyond the walls of the boardroom or the church hall. When women lead with faith, resilience, and vision, they leave an indelible mark on the world. So lead, woman of God, lead!!
Dr. Vinette Notice
National Women’s Ministries President
Jamaica
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