We look at women such as renowned Bible teachers Beth Moore and Joyce Meyer or a powerful preacher like Cindy Trimm and think God will never use us like that. So instead of acting on what He has said, we retreat to our comfort zones, never to pursue our spiritual calling. I know this because I’ve experienced it.
I attend a Pentecostal church and for years I struggled with not being able to minister like some of the women in my denomination. The rhythm and cadence in black preaching is an art form, and I wasn’t endowed with the ability to rev up a crowd. God instead told me to “power teach.” That’s when the Holy Spirit anoints you to speak the Word with confidence, but without pressure to stir a crowd into an emotional high. What a relief.
I traded my insecurity for ministry and today God empowers me to teach with authority. It’s a humbling place to be, relying on the Holy Spirit when I’m standing before a congregation or witnessing to someone in private. But I trust Him.
The reality is when we believe God and act on His instructions, He will show up and convict sinners of sin, baptize them with His Spirit, heal, deliver—whatever He wants to do. It’s actually not about you or me; it’s about Him. But unbelief and depending on self can destroy our effectiveness.
Acts 2:18 says God will pour out His Spirit on women who love and serve Him, and He will equip us for purpose. We don’t have to make things happen, but we must be willing to come out of hiding and obey His leading.
I hope you are expecting the Father to breathe afresh on your ministry, whether that means preaching to the masses or reaching neighborhood children. He wants to use you to do His bidding in the earth, but it’s going to take faith, not complacency or doubt, to walk with Him in this new season.
Valerie G. Lowe is the editor of SpiritLed Woman eMagazine and associate editor of Charisma.
