Their rejection of a woman leader can take a variety of forms. They may not take her seriously. They may purposefully exclude her from strategic meetings. They may ignore her counsel and partnership. They may be outright hostile. In any case, it is critical to respond in a godly, professional manner.
Remember that bringing glory and honor to God and building His kingdom takes priority; personal pride has no place. Jesus instructed His disciples to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matt. 10:16, RSV). Conduct yourself in like manner.
If the man in question truly has a heart to see God’s kingdom advanced, send a man from your team to build a relationship and see if God opens the door of partnership that way. If it proves to be a hindrance to the work of God, partner with someone else.
Do not get distracted with a battle that is not yours. Unless God assigns you to confront it, forgive and move on. God will make a way for what He wants done.
Jodie Nelson has served as the director of outreach for Operation Blessing International. Her responsibilities include overseeing humanitarian aid programs in the United States and abroad.
