Taylor’s Story:

At CCW, we have met so many wonderful ladies who truly love the Lord and have been a blessing to other young women. Taylor is one of them. I am going to share her story in her own words in this post.

This CC Wife has been apart of it all from the very beginning. She has been there to upfilt women and has helped so many women in the CCW community. The CCW Team wanted to help give back any way we could. We typically do not allow self promotion or links to be shared, but we felt called to help Taylor share her story. We wanted her to experience the same love and kindess she has also shown to ladies in CCW. She is adopting a baby, and will need so much. Adoption is not cheap, and Taylor will need to purchase baby items on top of all of this. I encouraged her to put together a baby registry so we could help her get some of the things she needs for her future baby. Taylor wrote her story out for us, and I just had to share. It almost brought me to tears reading it.

I pray that if you cannot help her financially, please keep her and her husband in your prayers. Pray they will be picked to get a baby very soon. The baby will be loved beyond measure, and we are so excited for them as they answer God’s call.

~Isabel

Taylor’s Story

Hi fellow CC Wives

Shortly after our adoption announcement on here, the admins shared with us that we’d been chosen as the family to receive a special opportunity they’d been planning for this season: to have our adoption fund and registry shared here for those that are able to help us and our baby. In truth, we were equally honored, humbled, and in our humanness, uncomfortable. After prayer and counsel, I was reminded of a truth about children that my husband and I know all too well, as some of you do too: that children are not something we possess, but rather a temporary gift from God to steward and care for. I cannot be prideful about where this baby’s material blessings come from. I have not earned this opportunity, our baby is no more deserving than anyone else’s, but I humbly accept that I cannot do motherhood on my own, nor has God asked me to. So, whether you're able to support this precious baby with something from this registry or not, please know we are already eternally grateful for your love and prayers.

I’m reminded of a story my elementary school told every year when we raised funds to build a house for a family in need. It was called Project Starfish. The story goes: a man was walking along a beach after a storm, with thousands of starfish washed up on the sand. One by one, he was picking a starfish up and tossing it back into the ocean. Another man came by and said, “What are you doing?! Surely you know that you cannot help them all!” The man reached down and picked up another starfish, and holding it in his hand, he said, “No, but I can help this one,” as he tossed it back into the ocean.

I always loved that story, but in my own ignorance, I thought I’d always continue to be the man throwing the starfish. You all have humbled me with your generosity of prayer and encouragement. Thanks to you all, I have already become the starfish. If you’re able to help bless our sweet, loved baby with prayer or by our baby’s registry, I can only offer back my gratitude to you and further praise to our Father for his continued creativity in bringing about surprising blessings.

Our adoption story:

Prior to even my birth, I was given to a mother who couldn’t care for me, and to a father that didn’t want me. My father told my mother to abort me, but in God’s goodness, and her courage, she chose to give me the precious gift of life. Every moment I’ve drawn breath, I owe not only to God, but to her as well. Her love for me didn’t stop there, she meticulously went through every single waiting, hopeful adoptive family in the area, looking to choose just the right parents for me, but she came up empty handed. Dozens, even hundreds of qualified, stable parents, but they weren’t my parents. She handed the last book back into the adoption agency, scared and confused, but confident of what she knew. Just then, God placed before her eyes: a photo of my parents. They weren’t home study approved, they weren’t even sure if they were going to adopt. They didn’t have a profile or a “Dear Birthmother” letter. They’d just stopped by after work one day, curious what adoption was all about. Against her training, and even against the law, the adoption counselor reluctantly agreed to call my parents. Against their sudden confusion and fear, they agreed to meet. My mom describes waiting in the agency, then seeing my birthmother stride in, glowing and beautiful, with an eccentric hat and a scarf billowing behind her. They talked so long, the adoption agency had to close and kick them out, so they moved over to the restaurant next door and talked until the restaurant closed too. This was the first time I met my parents, while I was still inside my birthmother’s womb.

I was so blessed to not only be given life when most others would not have been, but to be given more love than a child could even know what to do with. Nothing could shake my sense of knowing I was with the parents God meant for me to be with. Neither elementary school bullies trying to tell me my parents loved me less, nor even my own exceptionally powerful teenage angst could ever shake that my parents were my parents, as God intended.

As the years went on, I would see my birthmother for playdates with my half-sisters, or birthday parties, or day trips to the coast. She would always tell me of how God spoke to her through her pregnancy, guiding her to my parents. How giving me to them was still her pride and joy. Then, on my 18th birthday, she gave me a poem she wrote for me when I was born. While I will keep that poem private, it beautifully depicted the triad of love possible in a good adoption such as my own. It follows two women, one who gave a child love through the gift of life, the other who gave that child love throughout their gift of life. It ends with a child asking if she is the result of her heredity or of her environment, and the birthmother answers, “neither, my darling, neither, just two different kinds of love.”

After losing more than 5 precious babies in my womb, God opened up the path of adoption for us. After years of shadowy grief, we have hope and light again. We are so overjoyed to be able to love and support a precious birthmother that chose life for her child, and to be able to give a sweet baby a loving home as a result.

Once our homestudy is approved, we could get a call any day that we are parents. So we are required to prepare our home as if I was in my own last month of pregnancy, a stage I never actually reached. With the cost of the adoption itself, it’s true our baby would have precious little for a while. While we know babies don’t need much outside of love, security, and connection, we do wish to give our baby basics to keep them as comfortable as possible. If you’re able to help out, there are plenty of items under $5, and most are under $20. If you are able to help in prayer, we are just as grateful, as prayer and hope have made all the difference in our journey thus far. Thank you again, lovely sisters in Christ, we are forever blessed by your friendship and generosity.

NOTE FROM CREATORS OF CCW~

This is truly something we felt the Lord calling us to share. Feel free to share this with others.

If you’d like to give towards their adoption, there is a spot for that on the registry link. Taylor even has a place for donations towards second hand items as well.

Please pray for a smooth homestudy and for them to be chosen quickly. Pray for the Lord to continue to provide for them and all the things she will need for this sweet baby.

Ginger’s Interview- Back to the Basics:

Ginger has her own business called Back to the Basics 101. The Lord is truly at the center of her business and has shown her so much regarding healthy eating and how we care for our bodies. If you are struggling with healthy eating, auto-immune disorders, heart issues, asthma, etc. this interview is a must read! Ginger shares how God revealed to her that she needed to change her children’s diet, and they were healed from their sickness. This is where it all began for her! If you are new to starting your health journey, Ginger’s story is the best place to start! She sells amazing products that are perfect for introducing “nutrients from the source” into your home!

Ginger on the left

Introduce Yourself, Brand, and you can also briefly share your testimony here too!  

I’m Ginger Butts been married to my hubs, Johnny, for 32 years. Back in 2012, I started my business, “Back to the BASICS 101.” The acronym, BASICS, stands for Brothers and Sisters in Christ’s Service. My mission statement is: When we are Saved, Discipled, and Healthy, we can have the abundant life Jesus talks about in John 10:10. 

Ginger's Family

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."~ John 10:10

When did you start your health journey and how did God reveal that to you?  

My health journey began when my sons were young and had respiratory issues. I was new walking closely to Jesus. Because of my history of addiction, I was not a fan of medication. When I’d take my boys to the doctor, they would treat the symptoms and prescribe medication to address the symptoms. That’s when I began to ask questions like, “What is the root issue?” “What is causing this?” Because I was brought up to not question authority and just accept whatever the “experts” say, it put me way out of my comfort zone asking those questions. I don’t remember the specifics of how it all went down, but I do remember one monumental moment. I was laying across my bed and had my bible open to James 1.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” ~ James 1:5-6

In verse 5, it says, “if you want wisdom to ask and it will be given to you.” But verse 6 says, “...when you ask, you must believe and not doubt.” I put all that I had “out there” and said, “God, I don’t know how this works, but I want wisdom!” I may not have known the story of Jacob when he wrestled with God, but that’s what I picture in the spiritual realm. I was NOT letting go until God gave me wisdom concerning my children’s health. The fierceness of a mama bear had me all in to get answers instead of just accepting what the “experts” said. 

Long story short, much research and praying and listening I went to the doctor armed with my research. After 1.5 hours, my husband and I left and I realized they are not infallible. They are in practice. I felt led to make a radical move. Never heard of the likes of this before with anyone. I changed their diet slowly.  

God healed them! I felt led to take them off their medicine. Was it hard work? You better believe it! But the exhilaration in knowing I was led in an unorthodox way and God proved faithful, pumped me up! I put myself out there by questioning the practices of the experts, not because I’m medically qualified, but because I truly believe the Holy Spirit lives in me and that gives me that resurrection power we sing about in church! 

What were some of the small steps you took to change in relation to health?  

Ha! “Small steps” are not in my DNA. My personality is all in!  But here are some things I did. Mind you this was almost 30 years ago when it wasn’t as accessible or “trending.” 

• Drove 35 miles one way weekly to organic farm to pick produce and bring it home and process  

• Stopped all sugar when I learned it feeds disease 

• No dyes in “food” once I learned dyes are made from petroleum 

• Brought a grain mill into our home 

Basically, if God made it we ate it. If man made it we didn’t.  

What is a common misconception people have when it comes to food? 

I would say the misconception is in their definition of food. My definition of food is getting as close to God’s Creation as possible to get “Nutrition from the Source.”  

What is Back to the Basics 101? When did you feel the calling to start Back to the Basics 101? What are some other items you sell? 

So time marches on and my boys flew the coop. I’ve always had to supplement our income since I chose to be a SAHM over a civil service career I had before I was married. In 2012, our school system was selected for Feed My School pilot. With this program, one school would feed their children for a week from local farmers. The Nutrition Director for our county went to church with us. She knew I milled grains into flour and my husband grew wheat. She asked me to provide the flour to make yeast rolls. I looked forward to supplementing our income with this opportunity and create large quantity recipes with fresh milled flour.  

I milled my hubby’s wheat with my residential grain mill and went to the schoolhouse armed with fresh milled flour. I baked with the staff and we made light fluffy yeast rolls, cookies, and muffins. That week, everyone experienced delicious whole-wheat products because of fresh milled flour. The “Feed my School” initiative was a success and “birthed” my business, Back to the BASICS 101. 

I knew if our school system bought fresh milled flour that other school systems would also. So I purchased a commercial stone mill to accommodate large school orders. However, schools are not in session during the summer and I needed cash flow to pay start-up costs. Not to be deterred, I went to a Farmers Market with fresh milled flour. Everyone loved the concept of locally grown wheat and fresh milled flour, but the reality was, no one baked. So that’s when I developed Homemade Baking Mixes using our Georgia Grown wheat flour along with other pronounceable ingredients.  

Homemade Baking Mixes were the first product line. Initially, I took the recipes I made for my family and multiplied it to make larger batches. We now have 17 different kinds of Homemade Baking Mixes. 

In 2014, I personally suffered a health crisis. It appeared to be cardiac related. My father died suddenly at the age of 41 of a massive heart attack. I’ve always been “harrassed” by the enemy that that would also be the case for me. After much prayer and research and grounded in many Scriptures for ammunition, I felt led to treat myself nutritionally and went vegan, for lack of a better term. I needed protein and that's when I created the purest form of plant protein with my second product line, Nourished in 5. Five organic seeds milled into a meal that I used in smoothies for 5 years to heal my body of inflammation. And the result was complete healing of my body and the potential cardiac issues.  

A third product line was born when there was a flu rampage. I had an elderberry syrup I used for my family for years. I knew it was effective. When a friend had the flu and I sent her the syrup, she was amazed how well it worked for her. That's when I realized I needed to make it a product so others can benefit from it. Elderberries & More Ultimate Syrup mix was created. I chose to not make it already made as I would have to use a co-packer and wasn't confident in its efficacy versus making a mix that puts the power in the hands of the consumer. When they drop the powerhouse herbs in the hot water, it releases its medicinal properties providing the consumer the peak of potency. It can't help but be effective! 

In 2018, I opened a retail store and commercial kitchen in addition to my wholesale business. I carried the most superior forms of all food in my little country store on our property of over 250 acres. It was a dream. All the foods I ate I was able to prepare and provide for my community. I had all the fermentation with kombucha, water kefir, cultured veggies and coconut kefir. Fermentation is such a gift that needs to be tapped into. I wanted my customers to use the coconut milk kefir. But a lot of them didn't like it by itself. As an avid dipper, I thought I could add ranch seasoning to it and dip away! Everyone loved it. So I created a 4th product line of seasonings: Ranch, Taco, and Italian. All using organic dried herbs. That's it. Nothing extra. Nothing preserved. Just purity and an explosion of taste! 

How are you using this business to glorify and honor the Lord?  

I view my business as a platform to share my testimony of healing through a living God.

I do this in-person when I sample my products in my retailer partners’ stores. 

I do this on our packaging. 

I do this through my website. 

So many different opportunities present themselves for me to share the good news of a living God that cares!! 

What are some of your favorite items and what are some of the most sold items?  

The Elderberries & More Ultimate Syrup kit is our most popular item. It’s truly effective because having the “source” of the herbs and making it into an elixir puts the power in the consumer’s hands. '

Our Elderberries & More Ultimate Syrup Kit is a natural remedy for colds, flu and more.

Here’s why we love it:

• supports the immune system

• powerhouse of antioxidants

• fresh syrup mix delivers medicinal properties at the peak of potency

• easy to make

Ingredients: Organic Dried Elderberries, Organics Dried Rosehips, Organic Dried Hibiscus, Organic Cinnamon Stick, Organic Whole Cloves

Our whole grain Cheddar Garlic Biscuits are the perfect side at dinner… but they are so good, you’ll want to eat them on your own. Easy to make, these biscuits are a tasty, better-for-you option that will liven up your dinner table.

Makes about 30 drop biscuits.

Our pancakes and waffles mix, made from whole grains, is a great way to start your day. Make breakfast time family time… the only question is, which will it be? Pancakes or waffles?

Makes about 10-12 small pancakes or 3-4 waffles.

What is one thing you wish you could have done differently?  

I love people and I love doing life with people. But I’m not a good “manager” of people. Meaning, I’m not a good “boss” (because I’m a pushover). I wish I had a mentor to guide me to be a good leader to build a team. 

I wish I knew business better. I don’t consider myself a businessperson cause I’m figuring it all out as I go. Again, a mentor to guide me in business decisions.  

How has God used you and your passion so far?  

Such a great question for me to contemplate. We’ve had a lot of loss in our family in the last few years. Last year I considered selling my business. As I was considering that, I put out on social media this question: “What impact has my business had on you as one of my followers?” The number one answer was us producing the elderberry kit. The next biggest response was how my personal involvement has helped others realize that God’s best for us is to nourish our bodies and teaching them ways to do that. The third biggest response was our quality products, “best in the business” as one follower said

How can ladies at CCW be praying for you and your business/ministry? 

Since experiencing loss recently, it’s changed me. I love what I do but there’s so much I want to do. I’m VERY ADD so please pray for me to be focused and know God’s plan concerning the future of my business.

What are some Scriptures that have been a helpful guide and encouragement for you? 

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” God created food is for our good to nourish us. But as a society, our palate's desire what is man-made and we are malnourished.”- Hosea 4:6

 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

~1 Corinthians 6:19-20

 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

~ Ephesians 6:12

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces[a] of this world rather than on Christ.”

~Colossians 2:8

Every viewpoint we have, even regarding food/nourishment, comes from a worldly philosophy or from the Word.   I could go on and on and on. I could write a book. Actually, I probably should lol 

More Back to the Basics -

Note From Isabel:

My mom and Ginger are good friends. I can remember when I was feeling sick, my mom would have me drink some of Ginger’s Elderberry. It truly helped boost my immune system and I usually ended up feeling fine the next day. I remember thinking, there has got to be something to this! Ginger truly has the sweetest heart and truly cares for educating people on diet and nutrition. The Lord has used her so much. A lot of people have no clue what they are putting into their bodies on a daily basis and the effects it has on us. When we go to the doctor, we are told to take medicine… when really it may be something as simple as changing our diet! Ginger has done an excellent job of educating others on this discussion and providing people with real nutrients!

I added some of Ginger’s videos, photo, and links so you can “follow her on the socials!”

Here is a video about Ginger and how it all started. Click the Button below to watch!

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Ginger's Store

She has been in the local news many times!

Women in Leadership- Part 2

Hey Ladies! This is part two of our Women in Leadership series. Part 1 can be found HERE. If you are new here, every Thursday is Theological Thursday, which means things we post on may be controversial at times but still discusses Scripture. Our goal is not to divide, but to cause you to dig into God’s Word, see what it says for yourself. Do your own studying and pray that the Lord reveal truth because…let’s be honest, we are all seeking truth.

The Women in Leadership discussion is something I approached as, “What if I am wrong?” I sought wise counsel from my husband, my father and mother, but most importantly the Word of God. I am not trying to convince you on way or another, but simply present what Scripture says and leave it up to you ladies to determine for yourselves. I hope you find this post encouraging and uplifting. Women are essential, and even though I believe we should not hold pastoral roles and be leading churches…God has made us ladies with a beautiful purpose and a better one in my opinion. We have very unique and specific roles designed for us, and it is a blessing and honor to get to be a part of that. I do not need to stand from a pulpit to do what the Word of God has asked me to do.

Again, our goal is to encourage you to read and study the Word of God. Read the Scriptures I have provided. I will like to add, this is just my opinion and my conclusion of the Scriptures, after much prayer and seeking a multitude of counselors. I have my sources listed below as well for you to study and refer to them if needed. There are a few sermons I have also referenced from well-known SOLID pastors. Comment your stance under this blog post, and let us know why you agree or why you do not. Be kind, as we are all learning and growing in the Lord. I hope you all can find this message coming from a place of love and gratitude that, why I do not believe women should be preaching, they are made for something that is so much more.

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

by Isabel Bryant

Does the bible permit a woman to hold a pastoral role in the church? I would argue that It does not. I am making the case in this blog post that women are not permitted to hold such a role. Drawing mostly from Scripture and some supplementary sources I am going to try to address some of the general confusions about this topic. My attitude is one of encouragement toward women and wives in embracing the roles that God has laid out for both men and women in the whole counsel of his Word.

Women are called by God to embrace honorable and challenging roles. I am going to include this long quote from John MacArthur that sums up well the role of women that God has laid out in his Word. 

“In the creation account of Genesis 1, God’s first word on the subject of men and women is that they were equally created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Neither received more of the image of God than the other. So the Bible begins with the equality of the sexes. As persons, as spiritual beings standing before God, men and women are absolutely equal. In Genesis 2, there is a more detailed account of the creation of the two equal human beings that reveals differences in their God-given functions and responsibilities. God did not create the man and the woman at the same time, but rather He created Adam first and Eve later for the specific purpose of being Adam’s helper. Eve was equal to Adam, but she was given the role and duty of submitting to him. Although the word “helper” carries very positive connotations—even being used of God Himself as the helper of Israel (Deuteronomy 33:7; Psalm 33:20)—it still describes someone in a relationship of service to another. The responsibility of wives to submit to their husbands, then, was part of the plan from creation, even before the curse. The first books of the Bible establish both the equality of men and women and also the support role of the wife (see Exodus 21:15, 17, 28–31; Numbers 5:19–20, 29; 6:2; 30:1–16). Throughout the Old Testament, women were active in the religious life of Israel, but generally they were not leaders. Women like Deborah (Judges 4) were clearly the exception and not the rule. There was no woman with an ongoing prophetic ministry. No woman was a priest. No queen ever ruled Israel. No woman wrote an Old Testament (or New Testament) book. Isaiah 3:12 indicates that God allowed women to rule as part of His judgment on the sinning nation. In the midst of the Greek, Roman, and Jewish cultures, which viewed women almost on the level of possessions, Jesus showed love and respect for women. Though Jewish rabbis did not teach women and the Jewish Talmud said it was better to burn the Torah than to teach it to a woman, Jesus never took the position that women, by their very nature, could not understand spiritual or theological truth. He not only included them in His audiences but also used illustrations and images that would be familiar to them (Matthew 13:33; 22:1–2; 24:41; Luke 15:8–10) and specifically applied His teaching to them (Matthew 10:34ff.). To the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4), He revealed that He was the Messiah and discussed with her topics such as eternal life and the nature of true worship. He also taught Mary and, when admonished by Martha, pointed out the priority of learning spiritual truth even over “womanly” responsibilities like serving guests in one’s home (Luke 10:38). Although men in Jesus’ day normally would not allow women to count change into their hands for fear of physical contact, Jesus touched women to heal them and allowed women to touch Him (Luke 13:10ff.; Mark 5:25ff.). Jesus even allowed a small group of women to travel with Him and His disciples (Luke 8:1–3), an unprecedented happening at that time. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene and sent her to announce His resurrection to the disciples (John 20:1–18), despite the fact that women were not allowed to be witnesses in Jewish courts because they were considered liars. In Jesus’ treatment of women, He raised their station of life and He showed them compassion and respect in a way they had never known. This demonstrated their equality. At the same time, however, Jesus still did not exalt women to a place of leadership over men.”(God's High Call For Women). 

Jesus set right the role of women in their family, church and community. Jesus showed that women were called to something much greater than what the Greek, Roman, and Jewish societies had relegated them to. He called women to embrace their God defined roles both in what they should do and in what they ought not do. Women are called to embrace their roles laid out in God’s word not only for the benefit of everyone in their family, but also everyone in their community.

We have the example of the Godly wife in Proverbs 31:10-31. I would encourage you to read Proverbs 31 and the full chapter of the Bible verses that I cite in this blog post. We see the woman working both inside the home and outside of the home all the while though she is obeying God. She is working hard for her family and her community. In Titus 2:3-5 we read that,

“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God”

(Titus 2:3-5).

In his article Costi Hinn writes that,

“God has used women mightily throughout the ages. Across the entirety of the Bible, and today, women are used by God to declare truth, teach, and be a witness for the gospel around the world. However, as we’ve seen, this is not to be done as an authority over the church or as an elder”.

Scripture is clear that women are called to be much more than quiet wives at home. In the discussions over this topic, we have a tendency to focus on what God has defined as off limits for women. This narrowing can oftentimes obscure the awesome calling that God has given to women. 

Much of the discussion around this topic centers on 1 Timothy 2:11-15.

“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety”.

(1 Timothy 2:11-15)

Paul begins by clearly stating that “A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet”. This is controversial both in our day and at the time when it was written. This quote from Trent Hunter’s article does a good job of clearing up some of the perceived problems with this verse 

“Maybe you have heard of instances in Scripture of a woman teaching—even correcting—a man in private (Acts 18:26), or of how women were the first to testify to the resurrection of Jesus and did so to men (Matt. 28:8). Or perhaps you’ve heard that every church member speaks God’s Word to each other (Eph. 4:15). All of that is wonderfully true. But none of these instances actually describe the authoritative monologue given to an audience from Scripture that is preaching. Furthermore, we actually have passages written directly at this specific question. These passages are clear: the roles of pastoring and preaching are reserved for qualified men. Where does the Bible teach this and, importantly, why? The Apostle Paul instructs Timothy, “I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man” (1 Tim. 2:12). Some attempt to deny the force of this passage by saying that Paul restricts teaching to men because of something specific to the first century culture. The argument usually goes like this: the Apostle Paul prohibits only uneducated women from preaching; but if they just got educated, then the prohibition no longer exists. Some argue, alternatively, that feminism overran Ephesus (the city where Paul wrote 1 Timothy) so that Paul was offering a corrective for that cultural context alone, but not ours.”

In 1 Timothy, Paul is writing to Timothy in order to address problems that were occurring in the Ephesian church.  In his letters to the churches Paul was addressing the problems that each church faced; some problems overlapped and other problems were more prevalent in certain areas. However, 1 Timothy was not meant only for Christians in Ephesus. Paul is writing to communicate God's word to all Christians at all times. This is evidenced by us reading it today in Scripture. 1 Timothy is necessarily addressed to us because it was included in the canon of Scripture after the new covenant had been established. If this letter was only useful to the Ephesian church during this time period, then the Ephesian church would have received Paul's letter and it would have addressed the problems that were supposedly unique to Ephesus. That would have been the end of the use of 1 Timothy. In 1Timothy, Paul confirms that his letter is to all Christians everywhere,

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people.”

(1 Timothy 2:1-6).

We see here and in other letters throughout Scripture that these letters (that would later be compiled into Scripture) are for all Christians everywhere. This is also stated in 1 Corinthians, in Paul’s letter to the Corinthian Church. He is discussing how a church should operate. Paul is very clear in his writings. I will leave the passage below so you can read it.

“For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged, and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.

As in all the churches of the saints, the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says. If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church. Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached?  If anyone thinks that he is a prophet, or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a command of the Lord. If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized. So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.  But all things should be done decently and in order.”

1 Corinthians 14:31-40 (ESV)

Paul is writing to the Corinthian church here, and clearly says, “As in all the churches of the Saints.” His message is geared towards the church as a whole, and he is giving instructions for how a church needs to operate. Paul says, “God is not the author of confusion, but peace” and he also writes, “But all things should be done decently and in order.” This passage goes so far to say that, “if there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands.” This is teaching women to be more dependent on their husbands, and take on more of a submissive role. It is another way to uplift our husbands and help them to be the leader they need to be.

Scripture is very clear.

Before you start reading this portion I would encourage you to get out your bible and to read Genesis chapter 2 and chapter 3. Now that we have the full context of these chapters we start to understand Paul's appeal to Genesis more clearly. God gave the instructions regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil to Adam (Genesis 2:16-17). It was Adam's job to teach his wife about the commands that God gave. In Genesis chapter 3, we see the fall. Satan does not come to Adam first instead he tempts Eve. Already in the second chapter of the bible Satan is showing his craftiness and willingness to use strategy to corrupt God’s creation.

Satan says to Eve, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”(Genesis 3:1). Satan here is attacking the weaker vessel Eve. (1 Peter 3:7)

“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”

1 Peter 3:7

He distorts God's word in order to make her question the truth of God's Word. She says to Satan “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.” (Genesis 3:2-3). Eve goes past what God says and includes not even touching the fruit. She already has a flawed view of God's Word and so leads the world into sin and corruption. Adam follows his wife and her instruction leading to his fall as well (Genesis 3:6-7). Trent Hunter explains that Paul utilizes not an argument from culture but an appeal to the creation and fall account “Paul, however, roots his argument not in culture but in creation; he grounds his prohibition by saying, “For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor” (1 Tim. 2:13, 14). By grounding his argument in creation, Paul’s argument cannot be bound to the first-century, but rather it applies to all men and women across cultures”.

While this blog post is not meant to be comprehensive, I tried to clarify some of the confusion surrounding this topic. I wanted to delve into some of the cultural motivations behind the push for women to hold pastoral roles. However, I didn't want to stray too far from our topic. We are all Christians here, we want to hear an argument from scripture! These cultural trends materialize in many ways at different times but the motivation is always the same. The motivation is to disrupt God's created order. Whether it is the widows who were teaching false doctrine in the community at Ephesus or the cultural Marxists who call for the dismantling of the family and all perceived barriers in the way of equity the target is always God's created order. Woman are responsible for teaching other young women and raising up the next generation in the Word of God. That is a very big role. We have seen failure to do this in our society today, and we are paying a huge price. Raise your children in the Word of God and find other young women to mentor and counsel. It is a role that should not be taken lightly and I see it as a blessing and honor to be tasked with this.

Isabel

Leave a comment and let us know what you think about this perspective.

Bibliography 

Hunter, Trent. “Poking Holes in the Egalitarian Beachball: Seven Arguments against Female Pastors.” Christ Over All, 1 Mar. 2023, christoverall.com/article/longform/poking-holes-in-the-egalitarian-beachball-seven-arguments-against-female-pastors/. Accessed 31 Aug. 2024. 

“Does the Bible Permit a Woman to Preach?” Grace to You, 3 Nov. 2019, www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/81-56/does-the-bible-permit-a-woman-to-preach. Accessed 01 Sep. 2024. 

“What Is the Difference between Pastors, Elders, and Overseers?” Ligonier Ministries, www.ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-is-the-difference-between-pastors-elders-and-overseers. Accessed 31 Aug. 2024. 

Trebilco, Paul R. The Early Christians in Ephesus from Paul to Ignatius. Mohr Siebeck, 2004. 514 - 515

Hinn, Costi. “Is It Biblical for Women to Be Pastors or Elders?” For the Gospel, 29 Nov. 2021, www.forthegospel.org/read/is-it-biblical-for-women-to-be-pastors-or-elders. Accessed 01 Sept. 2024. 

“God’s High Call for Women.” Grace to You, 18 Aug. 2016, www.gty.org/library/articles/A168/gods-high-call-for-women. Accessed 02 Sept. 2024. 

I encourage you ladies who are truly wanting to study this more to listen to this sermon below.

John MacArthur Video

What if I’m Not a “Trad” Wife?

This post is written by Audrey Durden.

I LOVE what the trad wife trend has brought us. Western women need to know that not only is it okay to want more traditional values, but it’s achievable to live in the world we do today and also hold fast to Biblical principles for marriage and family. I am a HUGE fan of slow and conscious living, making sure there is purpose and intentionality behind the way you spend your time and who you place yourself around. I feel that a large pro of the trad wife movement is bringing this type of deliberate living back to the forefront of our minds and society at large.

A drawback I see coming from the trad trend is the pressure it puts on women to have a curated, aesthetic life. These influencers who are dominating our FY Pages have a beautiful home that is flawlessly maintained, their sourdough always has the most thorough design with the perfect amount of flour spilling onto their lovely butcher block clock countertop. This portrayal is a very singular and restrictive view in its demonstration of what a traditional life looks like. 

While this beautiful aesthetic is very attractive to some people, it might not be attainable (or even wanted) by the majority of couples and families. If you are anything like me, milking a goat at 7 am just isn't something you enjoy doing every day (goat milking is a skill I have, thanks to growing up in the country, and is not an experience I enjoy). Maybe baking is not one of your passions, or growing your own produce is your dream but not something feasible for you, that's alright. This and any other reason do not exclude me or any other woman from being a traditional wife. Though it might make me less popular if I posted about my “trad’ wife life on social media if none of my content was about baking or cows, haha!

Another possibility is that your husband has no desire to live on a farm. I have an experience where an acquaintance wanted a specific lifestyle that her husband wasn't on board with, so this is not attainable for her in the capacity she wanted. Even if this “trad” wife life is a dream you have, it's likely not possible to uproot your life, purchase and possibly renovate a farmhouse, acquire farm animals, homeschool your children, and make a decent living as a farmer. As an added reason that this lifestyle is not something we all need to have, some of us are called to do mission work where we are, not where we could be. 

Maybe you or your husband have a great community with good jobs that provide well and it isn't realistic for you to stay at home full time. That is the circumstance for so many in this economy. We know God can use any and every situation for the furtherance of His kingdom. We are called to be a light right where we are! You and/or your husband can reach people with the Gospel in your current roles/jobs (as mine does with his job). We have to remember that our lives have been graciously given to us by our Savior, who can use us every day in the capacity we have add to the citizens of heaven. 

Remember “trad” stands for traditional. When we adhere to the Biblical standards for our marriage and family, we are being a trad wife. It's so much less about the aesthetics and so much more about following the Biblical outline we see in scripture and allowing God to work in our lives however He sees fit! Maybe that is through your 9-5, raising your children in the Word, being a dependable friend, through your platform on social media, working on your farm, or simply through a conversation at the grocery store. Our lives, no matter the aesthetic, can mirror God’s love every day. 

Smile at the beautiful dresses, gorgeous make-from-scratch meals, and all those cute farm animals, and be thankful that we serve a God who does not care about trends.

What is a Woman?

A Brief Look at Womanhood from a Psychological, Biological, and Biblical View

This post was written by Laura B. and we are so excited for you all to read it!

In today’s culture, that question, what is a woman, is not only offensive, but also nearly

unanswerable. What is it that truly defines a woman? Is it her biological makeup (chromosomes,

genitalia, the shape of the pelvic girdle, etc.) or her attitude? The way that she dresses and styles

her hair or her role in society? Is it only one or all of these things that defines a woman? Or is it

something else entirely?

“What is it that truly defines a woman?”

If this question goes unanswered, how can we truly live out our vocation as women when we do not even know what it really means? Thankfully, there is an answer to this question, one provided to us from the Bible.

“Then the Lord God said, ‘it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him’” (Genesis 2:18).

“She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong” (Proverbs 31:17).

“God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns” (Psalm 46:5).

These are just a few verses on what it means to be a woman. Womanhood is a God-ordained role and duty that cannot be taken away. No matter what the world thinks. It is more than how we present ourselves and act, but it is a part of who we are physically and psychologically as well. Male and female were not created to be interchangeable. God created each so that they might fulfill certain duties and roles and that they might work together to be caretakers of the rest of God’s creation.

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27).

This verse specifically states that God created male and female, not humans, or people in general, but male and female. Two connected yet separate entities. No matter how hard they try, man cannot become woman, nor can woman become man, just as a cat cannot become a dog.

In this age of transgenderism, feminism, and the entire LGBTQ+ movement, it is easy to

see how the world has moved away from the original intent of men and women as ordained by

God himself. Our society has lost what it truly means to be a woman. Many of the people around

us think that being female is a choice that can be made and changed at will. But that is not how it

was intended to work, nor is that truly possible. Clinicians today use the terms sex and gender as

two different things. Sex is used when referring to the physical attributes of a person as

designated at or before birth, whereas gender is used to refer to the socially constructed roles and

internal sense of being of a person. Scientists and doctors have been trying to find new and

improved ways of changing a person’s sex to match their chosen gender. Medical interventions

such as hormone replacement therapy and surgical procedures are used to attempt to change a

person’s appearance and biological makeup to better match their chosen gender. But even those

can only go so far to reverse God’s work, and in some cases these attempts are an almost perfect

reversal of God’s ordered creation. The first ever complete female-to-male facial masculinization

surgery performed by Jordan C. Deschamps-Braly used a new surgical technique that created the

appearance of an Adam’s apple by using cartilage from a rib, the very bone that God took from

Adam, the first man, to create the first woman, Eve (Deschamps-Braly et al., 2016). Of all 206

bones in the human body, the type that they chose was the rib, a perfect and ironically poetical

reversal of God’s creation. Such an action could not be simply a coincidence, but could very

easily be God Himself trying to highlight the ludicracy of these attempts to undo what He has

done.

Beyond the physicality of the women, there is also the psychological aspect of them as

well. God created women to be the nurturers and caregivers of His creation. While that is not to

say that men cannot be caregivers or nurturing, but women are more inclined to it, just as men

are more inclined to take upon roles of providing and protecting (Proverbs 30:10-31, Titus 2:5,

Richard, 2023). An article published in August of 2023 states that men make up nearly 18% of

stay-at-home parents in America (O’Connell-Domenech, 2023). The article talks about how

America is progressing and the gap between men and women as caretakers is shrinking. And yet

that gap is still there. Even now, with all the perversion and changes to God’s ordained order,

women are still following the basic instinct to care for those around them.

“So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander” (1 Timothy 5:14).

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

Two entities, both created in God’s glorious image.

Our sinful nature can make it seem restricting or binding to have to be one or the other as God

has ordained. But it also gives a sense of purpose and meaning in a drifting and changing world.

God has made us to be women. When creating you he decided that the world needed another

woman. Another creature made in His image to adorn herself in His glory and proudly take upon

the role of Biblical womanhood. The gender that God gave to us is not a restricting box, but a

beautiful guide of what our place in the world is.

So what is a woman? Is it the biology that builds her? Is it the psychological pathways

that run her? Or is it the Biblical path that leads her? It is all of that and more. A woman is a

glittering jewel in the crown of God’s creation. She is the gentle hand by which God nurtures His

people. She is the beautiful vessel by which God brings new human life into the world. So stand

tall in your womanhood and be proud in the role that God has given to you.

Sources:

Deschamps-Braly, J.C., Sacher, C.L., Fick, J., Ousterhout, D.K. (2016) First female-to-male

facial confirmation surgery with descrption of a new procedure for masculinization of the

thyroid cartilage (Adam’s Apple). Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal.

https://deschamps-braly.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/First_Female_to_Male_Facial

_Confirmation_Surgery_with_Masculinization_of_Thyroid_Cartilage_Adams_Apple.pdf

O’Connell-Domenech, A. (2023, August) Nearly 1 in 5 stay-at-home parents in the U.S. are

dads. Changing America.

https://thehill.com/changing-america/enrichment/arts-culture/4136440-stay-at

-home-parents-dads/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20data%20from%20those,accor

ding%20to%20a%20Pew%20spokesperson.

Richard, A. Christ and the Church: A thirty-day devotion concerning the Holy Estate of

Marriage (2nd Edition). Independently published. 2023

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by

Crossway Bibles.

Let us know what you think about this post below! What does it mean to be a woman to you?

Embracing Biblical Womanhood:

This article is written by CC Wife Mia Cruz. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Embracing your biblical femininity is one of those hot topics our culture is so against that is fully driven to today's “feminist movement.” So before we get into what biblical femininity is, we have to remember that in the Christian realm, it is God’s will to ensure that women are treated in the way that God has always intended. For that to be achieved, it comes with balance. A partnership.

“Wives submit yourselves, unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord,

Husbands love your wives, and be not bitter against them” (Col. 3:18-19).

“It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him”

(Gen. 2:18).

Men and women are different, we each have our own roles- (I’ve said this before in one of my college liberal classes, and it riled a lot of women up haha) and for our partnership to thrive we must place a foundation of trusting each other onto our roles. Now what is biblical femininity according to God’s word? It’s easy to pair it with something derogatory or something extreme but let's look at what Paul said; “Do not let your adorning be external- the braiding of hair and putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear- but let adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious for this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands” (1 Peter 3: 2-5). It’s all inside! The posture of our hearts is what’s important. You’re probably saying; “But Lord! I am nowhere near gentle and quiet” trust me I’m right there with you sister. But when we really study His word there are a lot of things we might miss. In this example both a gentle and a quiet spirit is something different. When you search up a gentle spirit it means; humility, meekness, compassion. Trusting God fully and being humble is what came up for having a quiet spirit. What do these 2 have in common? These are also Jesus’ qualities. And what does he want us to be? To be more like him! I know my mind is blown. It’s important to work with the qualities that are accessible within us through the Holy Spirit. God has made this design and has given us special gifts. Biblical femininity is to pour that into our relationships that he entrusted us with and to be God fearing.

God’s Word on Femininity:

• 1 Peter 3:4

• Philippians 4:8

• Proverbs 31

• Ephesians 5:1-2

• Proverbs 21:23

• Titus 2:5

• Philippians 2:3-4

Personal Testimony:

I want to share my story for this topic only because I want every woman who is reading this to know that this is a lifetime process. We’re all constantly changing by God’s grace. It took me a long time to submit to my husband and to fully trust him. I had fallen to today's culture in depending solely on myself and the lies that were told that all men are trash, don’t depend on any man and we don’t need them. That resulted in me having that masculine energy. It wasn’t until God himself humbled me and stripped me away of everything in return of building me up again to the woman that I am today. Tapping into your biblical femininity is a lot of work and it will have you self reflect and correct everything that you have learned subconsciously throughout your life. It’s all about breaking that generational cycle and being different from what the world deemed to be normal. Thank the Lord because through his grace and compassion everything is possible.

“God is a competent Father. He can handle any problem you give him. Nothing is
beyond his ability or his resources. No request is too big or too small. ”

— (Ephesians 3:20 NIV).