Embracing Strength: The Journey of a Kingdom Woman
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the concept of being a "Kingdom Woman," focusing on Proverbs 31:25-26, which describes a woman clothed in strength and dignity, who can laugh at the days to come. This woman is not just about external beauty but is characterized by her inner strength and faith in God. We explored how wisdom is personified as a woman in Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of character over appearance. This woman is prepared for life's battles, anchored in God, and can face the future with joyful confidence because her trust is in Him.
We also examined the story of Esther, a woman who rose from humble beginnings to become a queen and save her people. Despite her difficult circumstances—being an orphan and living in exile—Esther chose gratitude and joy. She waited on God and embraced her season of preparation, understanding that God was working on her character. Esther did not get stuck in comparisons but focused on her unique purpose and calling. She thrived in community, calling on her people to pray and fast for her. Finally, Esther led with faith, not fear, trusting God even when it meant risking her life.
The message encourages us to choose joy and gratitude, wait on God, avoid comparisons, thrive in community, and lead with faith. It challenges us to rise above our circumstances, trust in God's plan, and live with confidence and joy.
### Key Takeaways
1. Choose Joy and Gratitude: Despite her difficult circumstances, Esther chose to focus on what she had rather than what she lacked. This choice of gratitude and joy is essential for building confidence and maintaining a positive outlook. Jesus reminds us in John 16:33 that although we will face troubles, He has overcome the world, and His joy can remain in us. [12:19]
2. Wait on God and Embrace Preparation: Esther underwent 12 months of beauty treatments before becoming queen, symbolizing the importance of preparation. God often uses our waiting periods to develop our character and prepare us for greater tasks. While waiting, we should focus on what is before us and trust God with the details. [14:56]
3. Avoid Comparisons: Esther did not get stuck comparing herself to others, understanding that God had a unique purpose for her. Comparisons can lead to feelings of inferiority or superiority, neither of which honor God. Instead, we should focus on our unique calling and trust that God has equipped us for our specific roles. [17:29]
4. Thrive in Community: Esther called on her community to pray and fast for her, highlighting the importance of being rooted in a supportive community. We are not meant to face life's challenges alone; community provides strength, encouragement, and accountability. [22:21]
5. Lead with Faith, Not Fear: Esther's decision to approach the king, despite the risk of death, exemplifies leading with faith. Trusting God over our fears allows us to step into our calling with confidence. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-control, not fear. [27:07]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:03] - Introduction to Kingdom Woman Series
[02:06] - Proverbs 31: Wisdom Personified
[03:43] - Inside-Out Woman: Character Over Appearance
[05:18] - Clad in Strength and Dignity
[07:20] - Synopsis of Esther
[08:58] - Esther's Rise to Queenship
[10:42] - Esther's Mission to Save Her People
[12:19] - Choosing Joy and Gratitude
[14:56] - Embracing Preparation
[17:29] - Avoiding Comparisons
[18:58] - Social Media and Contentment
[22:21] - Thriving in Community
[25:02] - Leading with Faith, Not Fear
[27:07] - Overcoming Fear and Intimidation
[32:13] - Declaration of Confidence and Joy
[33:58] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 31:25-26: "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."
2. Esther 4:14: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"
3. 2 Timothy 1:7: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
#### Observation Questions
1. What characteristics are highlighted in Proverbs 31:25-26 about a "Kingdom Woman"? [01:03]
2. How did Esther demonstrate her faith and courage in Esther 4:14? [07:20]
3. According to 2 Timothy 1:7, what kind of spirit has God given us? [27:07]
4. What role did community play in Esther's story, and how did she engage her community? [22:21]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Proverbs personifies wisdom as a woman, especially in the context of Proverbs 31? [02:06]
2. How does Esther's choice to lead with faith rather than fear reflect the principles in 2 Timothy 1:7? [27:07]
3. What does it mean to be "clothed in strength and dignity" in today's context, and how can this be applied to both men and women? [01:03]
4. How can the concept of waiting on God and embracing preparation, as seen in Esther's 12 months of beauty treatments, be applied to our personal spiritual growth? [14:56]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you had to choose between joy and gratitude versus focusing on what you lacked. How did you handle it, and what could you do differently next time? [12:19]
2. Are you currently in a season of waiting or preparation? How can you embrace this time and trust God with the details? [14:56]
3. Think about a time when you compared yourself to others. How did it affect your confidence and joy? What steps can you take to avoid comparisons in the future? [17:29]
4. How can you actively engage and thrive in your community, similar to how Esther called on her people to pray and fast for her? [22:21]
5. Identify a fear that is holding you back from stepping into your calling. How can you lead with faith and trust God with the outcome? [27:07]
6. What practical steps can you take this week to be "clothed in strength and dignity"? Consider both your internal character and external actions. [01:03]
7. How can you support someone in your community who might be struggling with fear or intimidation? What specific actions can you take to encourage and uplift them? [22:21]
Devotional
### Day 1: Choosing Joy and Gratitude
In the face of adversity, Esther chose to focus on what she had rather than what she lacked. This choice of gratitude and joy is essential for building confidence and maintaining a positive outlook. Jesus reminds us in John 16:33 that although we will face troubles, He has overcome the world, and His joy can remain in us. Choosing joy and gratitude is not about ignoring our struggles but about recognizing God's presence and blessings in our lives. It is about shifting our perspective from what is missing to what is present, and from what is temporary to what is eternal.
Esther's story teaches us that joy and gratitude are powerful tools for overcoming difficult circumstances. By focusing on God's faithfulness and provision, we can find strength and hope even in the darkest times. This mindset allows us to face the future with confidence, knowing that God is in control and that His plans for us are good. [12:19]
Bible Passage:
"Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation." (Habakkuk 3:17-18, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a challenging situation you are currently facing. How can you shift your focus from what is lacking to what you are grateful for? Write down three things you are thankful for today and reflect on how they reveal God's presence in your life.
### Day 2: Embracing Preparation
Esther underwent 12 months of beauty treatments before becoming queen, symbolizing the importance of preparation. God often uses our waiting periods to develop our character and prepare us for greater tasks. While waiting, we should focus on what is before us and trust God with the details. Embracing preparation means understanding that God's timing is perfect and that He is working behind the scenes to equip us for the future.
During these times of preparation, it is crucial to remain patient and faithful. Instead of rushing through the process, we should seek to learn and grow from it. This period is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God, refine our skills, and build the character needed for the tasks ahead. Trusting in God's timing and His plan allows us to embrace the waiting period with hope and anticipation. [14:56]
Bible Passage:
"And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:4, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on a season of waiting in your life. How did God use that time to prepare you for what came next? What is one area of your life where you need to embrace preparation and trust God's timing today?
### Day 3: Avoiding Comparisons
Esther did not get stuck comparing herself to others, understanding that God had a unique purpose for her. Comparisons can lead to feelings of inferiority or superiority, neither of which honor God. Instead, we should focus on our unique calling and trust that God has equipped us for our specific roles. Avoiding comparisons allows us to appreciate our individuality and the unique path God has set before us.
When we compare ourselves to others, we often lose sight of our own gifts and calling. It can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of contentment. By focusing on our unique journey and trusting in God's plan for our lives, we can find fulfillment and purpose. Recognizing that each person has a different role in God's kingdom helps us to celebrate our differences and support one another in our respective callings. [17:29]
Bible Passage:
"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." (Romans 12:4-5, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about a time when you compared yourself to someone else. How did it affect your sense of self-worth and purpose? What steps can you take to focus on your unique calling and avoid comparisons in the future?
### Day 4: Thriving in Community
Esther called on her community to pray and fast for her, highlighting the importance of being rooted in a supportive community. We are not meant to face life's challenges alone; community provides strength, encouragement, and accountability. Thriving in community means actively participating in and contributing to the lives of those around us, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Being part of a community allows us to share our burdens and joys with others. It provides a network of support that can help us navigate difficult times and celebrate victories. By investing in relationships and building a strong community, we create an environment where everyone can grow and thrive. This sense of belonging and connection is essential for our spiritual and emotional well-being. [22:21]
Bible Passage:
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on your current community. How can you contribute to its strength and support? What is one practical step you can take this week to invest in your community and build deeper connections with those around you?
### Day 5: Leading with Faith, Not Fear
Esther's decision to approach the king, despite the risk of death, exemplifies leading with faith. Trusting God over our fears allows us to step into our calling with confidence. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-control, not fear. Leading with faith means relying on God's strength and guidance, even when the path ahead is uncertain or daunting.
Fear can paralyze us and prevent us from fulfilling our God-given purpose. By choosing to lead with faith, we acknowledge that God is greater than our fears and that He is in control. This trust in God empowers us to take bold steps and make decisions that align with His will. It allows us to face challenges with courage and confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. [27:07]
Bible Passage:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, ESV)
Reflection:
Identify an area in your life where fear is holding you back. How can you choose to lead with faith in this situation? What practical steps can you take to trust God and move forward with confidence?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Are you dressed for success today? Are you clothed in strength and dignity, empowered by the Holy Spirit? Are you wearing faith or fear? Come join us as we talk about these things today." [00:00] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You may not be exactly where you want to be, but God can use you even there, even in the season, even in circumstances. That are not exactly comfortable or where you want to be." [11:30] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Sorrow comes with or without our permission. It just happens. You don't have to look for it. You don't have to search for sorrow. It will come. But joy must be chosen again and again. So today, women and my brothers, I challenge you, choose joy and gratitude in the midst of this season." [13:00] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Your obedience is more important than your comfort. Rise up, women of God. Rise up to what God is calling you to do. Rise up, men of God, as well. Rise up to do what God has called you to do. Today, I declare confidence and joy over your life." [31:28] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Whoever the son sets free is free indeed. So father, we thank you for this time. And we pray today. We thank you for all of your daughters who said before us. Your sons who you love who are called. We thank you for your children. And I thank you for your blessed Holy Spirit that comes to empower us." [33:21] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Proverbs highlights that wisdom is actually personified by a woman i think this is important particularly during a time when women weren't always valued and the purpose here is really to highlight that proverbs was to transmit insight and wisdom to youth and to adults based on the experiences of the elders." [02:06] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Another thing about this particular verse, verse 25, one translation says she is not afraid of what will happen in the future. Some commentaries actually say there's a military. There's a military tone here that this woman is clad in weaponry. She's ready. She's a woman of valor. She's anchored in God. That's why she can laugh." [04:43] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Kingdom women don't get stuck on comparisons. Oh, Lord, help us. I know my sisters are yelling right now. All right. Esther didn't get stuck comparing herself to the first woman. Oh, my first wife. Oh, her ankles are better than mine. Oh, my calves are not quite as developed. Okay. Maybe she did a little. We don't know. Scripture doesn't really tell us. But here's what we do know. She didn't get stuck there." [17:29] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Kingdom women thrive. They thrive and abide in community. Are you in community today? Esther had community. She had her posse. Esther called on her community to pray and fast on her behalf. We are meant to be in community. We're not meant to be alone." [22:21] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Kingdom women lead with faith, not fear. So Esther leaned into faith versus fear when she decided to go get married. She went before the king. You see, under that decree in that day, if you went before the king without being called by the king, it meant death. And it could have meant her death, even though she was his wife. But she trusted God." [25:54] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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