The hot sting of tears is familiar in the presence of injustice. They flow when harsh words have been spoken, poor decisions made, people disregarded. They are different than other tears, and, often to my chagrin, cannot be stopped.
But never mistake these tears for weakness. For they are often evidence of the deep pain sensed and seen, (and in turn felt), in the very ones [we] have been called to care for.
They act as a visual sign of unrest within and provide, in a sense, liquid bravery in speaking up or acting in accordance to a situation. These tears serve as a reminder that strength is often displayed through tender and gentle actions.
While strength can be displayed physically, to be sure, it is the strength found within that inspires awe. Unfortunately, all too often women try to hide their strength. Perhaps strength is perceived as going against how a “good girl” is supposed to behave. Or, maybe strength has been criticized and not looked upon as being a feminine quality. We tend to be more nurturing by nature, women tend to hold close the very things that they love the most and are most passionate about. A woman’s strength is displayed through her spirit of determination, nurturing provision, protection over her loved ones and willingness to fight for a worthy cause.
The Bible is full of strong women. Mary was strong in her unwavering yes to become the mother of Jesus and face the ridicule and shame of being pregnant and unmarried. (Luke 1:26-38). Queen Esther embodied strength in her fierce love as she risked her life and spoke with the king about freeing her people. (Esther 5-7). Even the unnamed woman in 2 Samuel 20: 16-22 shows strength in her willingness to speak truth and wisdom into a situation, ultimately preventing the destruction of her city.
Strength can be displayed in too many ways to count. At times it needs to be loud and more aggressive, at other times it needs to be quiet and listen. As I reflect upon the women we read about in the Bible, and observe the women I know I see similar qualities in their strength, but there are three qualities that stand out to me, and these qualities are worth celebrating.
A strong woman refuses indifference. Where there is injustice she does not remain neutral. She uses her voice to speak for the voiceless, her power to fight for the powerless and her love to lavishly care for the unloved. When her heart is stirred she responds in obedience and faith.
A strong woman takes risks. She understands that everyone will not alway agree with her, nor her with them. Even when it goes against the grain of what others are doing, or what is expected, she is faithful to say yes to risk.
A strong woman reflects confidence. She knows who she is to her very core; she does not waste her gifts and talents, but uses them generously. She also knows to whom she belongs and refuses to let the world determine her worth.
How do the women in your life display strength? How would the women in your life describe your strength? Ask them. Join the conversation.