Written by Beliza Kocev, Brazil Coordinator for Iron Rose Sister Ministries

“…I was pouring out my soul to the Lord.”(1 Sa. 1:15b NIV)

Imagine something you really want. Now imagine that in addition to really wanting it, people expect it of you. On top of that, they think there is something wrong with you because you don’t have what you “should.” Imagine having someone make fun of you for this.

This was the life of Hannah. Her name means “favored,” which seems ironic in a time when infertility was shameful, not only for the woman, but also for the family. And on top of dealing with the pain of infertility, she was humiliated by Peninnah, her husband Elkanah’s other wife (1 Sa. 1:6). Peninnah’s provocations distressed Hannah. She would cry and not eat.

Every year Elkanah went with his wives to Shiloh, where there was a temple. And the story repeated itself every year: go to the temple, be provoked by Peninnah, cry, stop eating, and despite her husband’s attempt to comfort her, remain in the same condition (1 Sa. 1:7-8). He would try to satisfy her with good treatment, even being more generous with Hannah than with Peninnah, but he didn’t understand Hannah’s pain.

We don’t know how many years this process repeated itself. But throughout all of this, Hannah continued to share her anguish and pain with God. In one of these journeys to Shiloh, “Hannah got up. She was deeply distressed, and she cried bitterly as she prayed to the Lord” (1 Sa. 1:10 GNT). Hannah got up! Before the pain and anguish, the humiliation and the sadness, like Hannah, we need to seek God, as it is only Him who can give us relief and comfort our hearts. Often, there are times that we will not be able to get up on our own. For this reason, it is so important that we have sisters close to us to share our pain and to battle with us in prayer.

One of the interesting things about Hannah’s prayer is that she was specific in her request. Hannah knew herself, and she had a clear understanding of what she longed in anguish for. She knew exactly what she wanted from God and made it clear that if her prayer was answered, she would dedicate her child to the Lord (1 Sa. 1:11).

When Eli the priest saw her, he thought she was drunk because she was only moving her lips as she prayed (1 Sa. 1:13-14). She explained her situation and shared the affliction that she was feeling. Eli responded: “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him” (1 Sa. 1:17 NIV).

After this prayer and the conversation with Eli, Hannah fed herself and her face even changed and became more expressive (1 Sa. 1:18). Hannah returned home and got pregnant! Imagine her joy! Have you ever received a blessing for which you had waited a long time? Remember your joy to get something that you waited for, prayed for, and asked of God, pouring out your heart? “I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him” (1 Sa. 1:27).

Hannah fulfilled her vow. After Samuel was weaned, she took him to the temple. She received the long-awaited blessing, but remembered that everything we have should be used for the Kingdom of God. After the humiliation, shame, and anguish, she was able to sing and praise with thanksgiving for the grace she received. She proclaimed out loud what the Lord did. “There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God” (1 Sa. 2:2).

Hannah’s example teaches us the important lesson of how prayer is a powerful weapon: bending our knees and lifting our voices to God is something Jesus taught us and gave as an example. We should persevere in prayer!

Hannah’s was a bitter prayer that created within her a deep realization of her need to seek God. It was a prayer committed to consecrating to the Lord the blessing she received. We live in difficult times. May the Holy Spirit help us, like Hannah, persevere in prayer and remember our commitment to God.

Written by Katie Forbess, Board President of Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Missouri

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.(Jn 15:16 NIV)

Iron Rose Sister Ministries actively does things to help women by equipping and encouraging them to grow closer to God and one another, bearing fruit that will last, and hearing their prayers along the way.

Last year, the theme of “Practice like a Wise Woman” shook the ministry and blessed it in ways never imagined. Thankfully, we trusted and sought wisdom, and we truly moved in the ways we felt God calling us. Not perfectly, but faithfully. 

That Godly wisdom brought us this year’s theme of “Bear Fruit,” which will touch many parts of our lives and relationships. Personally, I have come to define bearing fruit as this: When I am living in such a way that I am connected to God, like a healthy vine to the branches, and I allow God to work through me, fruit is produced.

While remaining in the love of God, I believe part of bearing fruit is the fruit of the Spirit in me, and another part is the sharing of the truth of the gospel of Christ to someone in a way that they become capable of reproducing that gospel themselves. And all future fruit will go on to do the same. The fruit of more disciples will last long past my time here on earth, and long past the people who know me or will even know about me. This fruit is eternal, so it will last in heaven. In the end, I believe we will all feel connected to the same Vine and the same roots and truly be one in Christ. 

On a personal level, as I look at this year, I see there will be a lot of changes, such as a son who will be graduating and going to college, a daughter who could be engaged by the end of the year, and another daughter who plans to start driving by the end of the month. There are always changes. There will be ups and downs. Joys and sorrows. The real question is: Will I bear fruit that lasts during these times?

I’m reminded of Abraham, whom God told that his family would be as numerous as the stars. It took a few failed attempts on Abraham's part and a baby born many generations later to completely fulfill that promise. That baby grew up to make disciples, died for the sins of the world, and then arose, sending all His disciples to go out and make disciples.

The fruit that God is asking me to bear is only possible through this blessing of Abraham’s descendent, Jesus Christ. Abraham could never have known how eternal his fruit would be. The fruit we bear is under God’s control, as well. I may never truly understand what will happen with the fruit He has called me to bear. What a blessing to be part of something so much bigger!

How can we bear fruit that will last during this time in our lives?

How can we trust God with the eternal impact of the fruit we will bear in His name?

Written by Johanna Zabala, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Venezuela

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (Jas 4:10, NIV)

The word humility connects me to the divinity of God. Today, I reflect on the depth of its meaning, which I have sought and seen so many times as I continually strive to live God’s purpose personally and spiritually.

I define humility as an act of the Spirit, which leads me to an attitude of the soul. Using the letters of the word, I break it down into the following characteristics:

       Honesty
       Unity
       Meekness
       Intelligence
       Loyalty
       Inclination (willingness)
       Tenderness (love)
       You serving the Heavenly Father

Each of the characteristics above has invited me, since the day I met Him, to stay in tune with Christ. By allowing me to be used by God, His beloved Son Jesus, and in the power of His Holy Spirit, I have seen His example of humility under submission, obedience, and continual awareness of putting the Father's will before my own, always with an eye toward the great goal that leads me to keep looking up to reach the prize of eternity.

I am also attentive to Peter’s admonition to “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1Pe 5:6).

Therefore, being humble, in my experience, is a necessary spiritual action that undoubtedly brings me constantly into the presence of the Lord. In every area where I find myself, out there all around me, I require large portions of the Eternal Father's wisdom to be a humble child of God, chosen and called to service.

To be a child of God today, as the Bible says, is the greatest privilege I can have. It is a unique honor that has required in me great self-control.

At the beginning of my Christian life, I was filled with human pride, which counteracted humility in every situation. Many times, without realizing it, I felt self-sufficient, and my trajectory was more and more human than spiritual. I wanted to continue doing everything through my own strength rather than through God's. As time went by, I realized that I had to seek more vigorously at every moment the presence of God in everything, since only He knows and is capable of everything.

My first struggles, and the hardest, were with myself, thinking that I just needed to know that I had God, without the need to continue knowing Him fully. However, in those moments, the inner struggle of faith and humility had to continue to develop in me.

Through emotional trials of anxiety, later physical trials of sickness and loss, scarcity, and many more, and even wanting so many things in my timing and not in God's, He has allowed me to recognize, frontward and backward, the full authority of the Heavenly Father, the One who comes from above, for surely He alone is almighty, and in His infinite, true, and matchless mercy He will give me victory here on earth and there in heaven.

I have been able to experience the humility that God gives me in life through times of silence; in the solitude and peace of knowing Him in me, in wisdom, and in the prompt help that comes from Him. Humility is acknowledging His dominion, power, and glory forever.

So, I continue to fight to live consistently in the humility of God and not in the humility of humanity— to be able to live and make known the power of the Holy Spirit in the society in which I live. In this way, I intend to attain the wisdom of valuable and essential humility to arrive at eternal life with God.

We should not forget the beautiful examples and teachings of Jesus, who, with the power of the Holy Spirit, remained humble and overcame every trial and temptation, and we can also overcome them in His will. Are you humble today? Looking up to the eternal home? Do you radiate the humility of the Lord Jesus Christ here and now?

Written by Deanna Brooks, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries

2 Timothy 2:2 reads: “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” (ESV).

Paul is reaching the end of his life, and he wants this precious message to continue to be passed on. 

“Entrust” indicates responsibility and stewardship. “Faithful” means those who will treasure what they have and handle it as God intended. 

We, as disciples of Jesus, are the only way others will learn about Jesus and why He came to earth. We have been given a mission, and in John 15, Jesus shares His plans with His disciples. 

Jesus paints a word picture of Himself as the Vine and His disciples as the branches that bear the fruit. Some of His statements are:

Verse 2: “Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”

Verse 4: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.”

Verse 5: “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

Verse 8: “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.”

Verse 16: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.”

When a branch bears fruit, it provides the way by which other fruit can be produced. The branch that does not bear fruit is considered dead.

If you have ever grown a garden or fruit trees, you know an important part of having a healthy plant is to cut off dead or diseased limbs, so they do not weaken the healthy branches. Likewise, Jesus says He will remove those branches that are not bearing fruit.

Some of Jesus’ last words were, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Mt 28:19).

There is joy in seeing someone you have taught become a follower of Jesus. 

“Each one teach one” is a common saying among believers, indicating each of us is responsible for reaching someone who can then reach someone else, just as 2 Timothy 2:2 says. 

Teaching about Jesus should be a normal part of our lives. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 emphasizes the importance of teaching when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise.

Some ways to reach out to others are:

• Invite someone to VBS, gospel meetings, or a Bible study.
• Invite your friend for coffee and tell her you have good news you want to share… Then share your faith story and the path that led you to be a Christ follower (to discipleship).
• When you are with a friend, ask what she believes, then listen. Be ready to share your common beliefs, but if she mentions something not in Scripture, gently ask where she gets the authority for what she said.
• When you are asked a question, turn to Scripture instead of sharing your opinion.
• Stay “on target” in your study with others.

If you do not know how to teach someone, find a friend who does and ask them to help you learn.  It may be that you are like Andrew and can seek people out and invite them to a Bible class or worship services, leaving the more formal teaching to someone else. 

It is important to be alert and realize when a friend may be receptive. Life changes often create an interest that has not been present. When a new family moves into the neighborhood and is making new friends can be an excellent time to set up a study. 

For us, it is important to:

• know who our authority is.
• know what and why we believe.
• be willing to search if asked a question we don’t know.

Are you willing to put 2 Timothy 2:2 into practice in your life?

Written by Corinne Faneus, Ministry Coordinator at Iron Rose Sister Ministries

“Well, there is nothing left to do except pray.”
“Sorry, I can’t do anything else, but I’ll pray for you.”
“The least I can do is pray.”

And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (Jas 5:15-16 NIV)

We read throughout the Scriptures multiple prayers that had incredible and powerful results—Hannah in 1 Samuel 2, Hezekiah in 2 Kings 19, and Elijah in 1 Kings 17 and 18. Prayer is shown countless times as the means by which we put our faith and trust in God as the means for God to fulfill His promises and plans in our lives. Yet, often unintentionally, with our own words, we take away the very power that prayer holds. Like the phrases above, we often minimize prayer as a last resort or as a small, almost insufficient service to those around us.

Prayer is one of the greatest gifts we have been given. That God allows and plans for our prayers to be how He is moved to action is amazing, confusing, wonderful, mysterious, and awe-inspiring. God’s hand is moved by the prayers of His creation.

If we know all this to be true about prayer, how can we be women who offer powerful and effective prayers? How can our prayers bear fruit?

It may sound cliché, but for our prayers to be powerful and effective, we must have faith in God— faith that our prayers serve a purpose, and faith that God is working through our prayers. We can often wonder, “What difference will our prayers make? If God is sovereign and has everything all planned out, what difference does it make to pray for a dear friend to be healed from sickness? Does it really matter if I pray for my unbelieving relative, if God’s will is going to be accomplished regardless?”

“Jesus replied, ‘Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done.’” (Mt 21:21)

Our prayers of faith make all the difference, not because we can change God’s plans, but because part of God’s plan is that we pray! We pray to bring about what God has planned. Do you trust and believe that your prayer is part of God’s sovereign plan? Do you believe that God has planned to act because of your prayer?

In James 5:17, we see James give an example of a righteous person’s powerful and effective prayer, “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth” (ESV). Being a spiritual superstar like Elijah is not what makes our prayers effective and powerful. James points out to us that Elijah was a man with a nature like ours; he was a normal human being who prayed. He was just a man who prayed fervently, and his prayers were answered. Normal average women like you and me have that same ability as Elijah because prayer is about God and not about us. Just like Elijah, we can be righteous by offering fervent, faith-filled prayers.

Ordinary women submitted to God can offer effective and powerful prayers because we pray to an extraordinary God.

Written by Alessandra Cardoso, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Sergipe, Brazil

When we stop to think the only begotten Son of God, who came into the world in human form, dedicated His entire ministry to healing, saving, and loving the people around Him, we realize His greatness. He, who is the heir of God the Father, renounced His glory to be among us. With humility and love, He fed hungry people, cured the sick, and healed the hearts of many, including those needing spiritual health.

Nowadays it is difficult for us to understand such gestures of care and service when we look at them from our earthly perspective, but Jesus' greatest purpose on Earth was this: “…just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mt 20:28 NIV). Before delving deeper into this verse, I would like to define what the verb serve means: to work in favor of (someone, an institution, an idea, etc.).

Serving is a job, providing a service to something and/or someone, and may receive something in return (like a salary, for example) or simply be a voluntary act. In either case, serving is action. When examining the gospels, we observe Jesus Christ's attitude toward humanity; we see a lovable, docile, kind, compassionate, humble, and merciful man. However, when focusing within the gospels on the three years of His messianic ministry, we see that He proves His divine essence in the form of love and service.

There are countless ways to serve each other in the church of Christ— both our brothers and sisters in the church and those outside. We can actively participate in the congregation’s ministries (children, couples, benevolence, etc.), but we also have the opportunity to take part in the details that are not seen by the majority (preparing the Lord’s Supper, cleaning the building, maintenance, etc.), and we must serve with our wisdom, personal/professional experience, and advice. As Christian women, the range of services is diverse and each one can identify which one fits them best.

If we were to look for a source of inspiration and direction to follow, there is a perfect example of a SERVANT Jesus Christ, our Lord and Master (and by Lord, I mean that we are His slaves— He bought us at a high price). The interesting fact here is: our Lord is owner of the entire universe, Son of God, and our Savior. He became a servant in order to rescue and save many— to be an example for us to follow—because the disciple imitates his master. Therefore, if Christ submitted Himself to servitude willingly out of love for humanity, how can we, His disciples and slaves, not want to follow in His footsteps?

If we reflect deeply on our Christian duties, service is something indispensable for Christians. When done with sincerity and willingness, it has the potential to nourish our Spirit, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and improve our skills. Notably, it is also a huge gesture of love, obedience, and submission to God. When I think about service, I believe that the central point is LOVE, because if I am full of love in my heart, serving is not a burden, but rather a beautiful reflection of what we have within us: the overpowering light of Jesus Christ. Serving is loving. Whoever is full of love to give will certainly serve others with joy. Thinking further, all of this is the result of the fruit of the Spirit being developed and polished within each of us, day by day. It is the mission that Jesus left for us. It is and has always been His desire that serving was more important than being served. It denotes humility and subjection.

A beautiful example of how Jesus demonstrated that He came to serve and not be served is found in John 13:12-14 when Jesus washed the feet of His apostles. He teaches us about His character and, most importantly, gives us the precious lesson about humility connected to service. We often aim for big and flashy things in the church. However, as written in Mark 10:43, our goal should not be to have recognition and prestige— our goal is to simply be faithful servants of Christ Jesus!

I know in our Christian journey, we will have barriers to developing this service within the church. It will not always be the easiest or most fun thing to do. However, I want to encourage you to try. Start with something small and simple, and you can master easily. Remember that serving is: loving, imitating, and glorifying Jesus.

May we be servants of Christ. Amen!

Written by Sâmia Machado, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Brasilia, Brazil

We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. (1Th 1:3 NIV)

Dear ones, the church of the Thessalonians was a model church for all times. In 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, we see the success of the gospel and the faithfulness of that church, being the fruit of Paul's work accompanied by Silas and Timothy on his second missionary journey (Ac 15:36-18.23). In these chapters, we see their choice to serve by working together to preach the gospel of Christ.

Over the last three years, I have been able to learn from the Lord the meaning of the word service. Being a servant of the Lord means standing before Jesus with the desire and willingness to genuinely serve. So, if our willpower is weak, we have to exercise it, even if our bodies and minds say they don't have the willpower.

Paul was called to be an apostle and serve the Lord Jesus, having to renounce a lifetime of Jewish customs. As a servant with no choice of where to go, facing persecution, and eventually imprisoned, he happily writes his first letter to the Thessalonians.

Sisters, my family and I have been “on rough seas” since 2021 during my third pregnancy. I was pregnant with twins and lost one of them, leading to an early rupture of the membrane protecting José, the baby I was still carrying. This situation put me in the hospital at 25 weeks pregnant. I was able to maintain the pregnancy until the thirtieth week when the amniotic fluid emptied. Unable to wait any longer, my baby had to be delivered and taken straight to the ICU. In total, I was in the hospital for two and a half months, leaving my home in the care of the Lord with the help of my beloved husband, Emilson, until we were able to go home with our José Victor. I realized how intense the last two months and six days were, when I saw our three children together after so many weeks of absence. Unfortunately, José passed away due to a respiratory syndrome, as a result of a simple cold.

For me as a mother, experiencing that moment of sudden loss made me realize that I should accept God's sovereign will. The desire to give up was intense, but what about my two children who were still with me? And my home? Being in mourning and having to return to work which involved the direct care of mothers and newborns — all of this was part of that rough sea…

Being in the desert of the ICU and seeing God bring my reinvigorated little baby out of there, then going back to the ICU for the second time and leaving without my son alive, returning without a piece of me, was the biggest battle I had to fight against my own will. I had to take care of the home, be a present mother, and start to take care of the family again with this loss. After a few months, I had to return to work assisting with breastfeeding care at the Birth Center where I have worked since then. ii. My dedication to my children, Alice and Benjamin, had to primarily be the continuation of discipling them in the Word of the Lord.

Today, two years and four months after my José Victor's departure, I am inspired by Paul's letters when analyzing the path he followed to serve the Lord. Paul wrote Thessalonians, his first letter to that church, with enthusiasm and love for service. Amid the persecution of the Christians there, he encouraged those new to the faith who, even amid difficulties, did not stop preaching the gospel. Even those who were new to the faith were active in serving the Kingdom, putting into practice the teachings learned from the missionaries.

I refer to each family as a part of the Lord's church, each one being a part of the body that, when joined together, forms the church just as Thessalonica was: an example of a healthy body. Like them, we should also be committed to the gospel of Christ both in our church and in our homes, in any situation, even if there is persecution as there was in the early church.

May we be like the Thessalonian church; active in serving, which was what distinguished it as a model church through the preaching of the gospel throughout Macedonia and Achaia (1Th 1:7-8).

…your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. (1Th 1:3b)

Written by Elesa Goad Mason, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Texas

Ponder. To meditate and think with intent. Together with prayer, pondering can bring understanding of the ways of God.

It wasn’t until I became a mother that I really understood what the Bible meant when it said “Mary pondered…” There are moments in my children’s lives that I will never forget. Sounds of their voices that had meaning, requiring no words. Certain facial expressions. The innocent look as they slept with a slight hum when they exhaled. All etched in my memory because when I witnessed the beauty of my child, I deeply contemplated and pondered that moment; never wanting to forget the miracle of it all.

Forty years ago, I experienced the closest thing I’ve ever had to God writing on a wall to give me an answer to a deep and troubling question: should I or should I not marry? Making such an enormous decision to combine my life with another person forever brought me restless and sleepless nights. After one especially prayerful one, I felt drained and confused the next morning. I was puttering about doing a list of chores that were reserved for Saturdays. One of them was making a call to a number I didn’t know. In those days (1985) there were no cell phones or internet, so I grabbed a five-inch-thick book called The Yellow Pages. It was filled with ads for every business in the city of Denver. I stuck my thumb halfway through, opened it to a random page, and laid it on the table. I held my breath as my heart started beating rapidly in my chest.

Let me explain: to help navigate such a large conglomerate of advertisements, at the top of each page was the name of the first listing on that page, then a dash with the name of the last listing. After the prayerful night I had just experienced, my random toss had opened to “marriage-mason”. Let that sink in for a minute (and check out my last name)! The humorous side of me said, “ok God, how about two out of three?!”, but I cut out those two words and carried them in my wallet for over 20 years. Four children and four grandchildren later, this coming July will be our 40th Anniversary.

That was the last time God wrote on the wall for me. But there have been many other times that I had to search for ways to listen to what He was saying. Aside from all the typical means of listening to God: studying the Word, focused prayer with Him, and fellowshipping with Christians, I have found several other ways that help me feel the sense that God is speaking directly to me.

Music. I have written in previous blogs that music lifts my soul and comforts, inspires, and encourages me. You might question how God is speaking through the words of man, but frequently the right song will come across the radio at just the right time to fill my need. If that’s not God in control, then I don’t know what is.

Stillness. After I pray, particularly if I need comfort or direction from God, I find that sitting still can bring answers. After asking Him to help me, I owe Him a few minutes of thoughtful, quiet listening. The Psalmist said in 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.” God wants me to know that He is strength. If He can protect His people (Israelites) from hostile forces, then I know He’s got me and my problems.

And finally, intentional listening. This is not the same to me as my quiet stillness. I am talking about listening to others and seeking out ways to treat my neighbor as myself. After all, that is the second greatest commandment according to Jesus (Mt 22:39).

Most of my deep connections have been with strangers, through whom I hear God when I actively try to listen. The thing about asking God for spiritual understanding and ways to be of greater service in His Kingdom is that He will always answer and present me with opportunities to show His love by making someone else’s way easier.

I promise if you fervently seek for ways to find Him, He will show you. He always does.

Written by Caroline Prieto, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil

Adolescence was one of the phases of my life when I felt most disciplined by my parents. At 13 years old, I decided to give my life to the Lord and was baptized. Years later, I remember that my school friends lived things I had never experienced. Many of my classmates went to parties regularly, and my parents never let me go. You can imagine that for a teenager's mind, it wasn't the best feeling to be excluded by not doing what everyone else did, even though I had chosen to be a Christian. Several times I begged my parents to let me go to parties with my school friends, but the answer was always: no!

I remember once confiding in one of these classmates. I mentioned that I was very frustrated because I felt my parents wouldn't let me do everything I wanted – like going out to parties like everyone else. My classmate's response is still vivid in my mind. She said, "I wish my parents wouldn't let me go to all the parties either. They always let me do whatever I want… sometimes I feel like my parents don't even care about me."

I was speechless. I could be sure that my parents loved me. Look, I don't think my classmate's parents didn't love her, but maybe they believed they were doing the best for her, according to the context in which they lived. They weren't Christians, so they probably believed that the best way to be good parents was to never forbid anything.

At that moment, it was as if everything made sense to me. Today, years after that conversation, I can look back and feel even more the immense love my parents had for me. The prohibitions, in fact, were pure discipline. It was an attempt to keep me from losing myself. Today, I understand that my parents were looking out for my best interests and were affirming their love for me.

Similarly, but even more profoundly, God also does this with us. Take a look at what is written in Hebrews 12:10-11 (NIV).

They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

How can I accept being called a daughter of God and reject His discipline for me? Discipline is a gift to children!

Look at how great the love of our Father is: when God allows us to be disciplined, He is affirming that we are legitimate daughters, even when we are considered illegitimate by the world.

I want to invite you to reflect on some reasons to see God's discipline as something good for us, based on the verses in Hebrews chapter 12:

1. Discipline is a clear sign that we are children of God and that He loves us.

...because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?(Heb 12:6-7)

2. The purpose of discipline is our own well-being.
3. Through discipline, we can participate in God's holiness.

They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.(Heb 12:10)

Sharing in God's holiness is an inheritance, and only His children receive it!

It's as if God were telling us, “You are my beloved daughter. I want what's best for you, and I want you to share in holiness with me... that's why I'm disciplining you!”

But what does it actually mean to be disciplined by God?

It means we are required to go through corrections and processes that are permitted by Him, not as punishment for rejection, but as proof of love and care, with the goal of making us more like Christ.

In practice, this discipline can manifest in various ways, for example: through the Word of God, through our brothers and sisters in Christ, through the Holy Spirit, and even through the consequences of our wrong choices.

I would like to conclude this blog with a quote from Albert Barnes: "I have never known a Christian who was not benefited by afflictions."

However difficult it may be, everything we experience works together for the good of being transformed into the image and likeness of Christ. What a privilege!

I know that during my adolescence, it wasn't pleasant being disciplined by my parents, but today I can see the fruits I've reaped. Our God is also disciplining us today so that later we can produce fruit of righteousness and peace.

I encourage you to see God's daily care for you through discipline.

Have no doubt about the greatness of our Father's love.

How have you experienced the Lord's discipline in your life? Reflect on this!

Written byDeanna Brooks, Volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Arkansas  

Romans 12:1,2 ESV: I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:1,2 NLT: And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Three words stand out in this scripture:

1. The word “sacrifice” means giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important. Even though the Israelites offered a lamb or another animal as a sacrifice, it was an outward sign that did not always reflect a heart for God. 

Sacrifices were common to the first-century world. They had been part of religious practices from the time of Cain and Abel.

2. “Conformed” means to be in agreement with or molded into. As disciples of Jesus, we are not to follow the ways of the world because we have a higher calling— to become like Jesus.

3. “Transformed” is a change in a person’s nature, the way they think and the way they live.

A true disciple of the LORD offers their whole being as a living sacrifice to Him— totally living their life for Jesus, instead of following the ways of the world. 

When we give our lives completely to God, we sacrifice our wants and desires for His will, allowing Him to transform us into the image of Jesus.

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. (2Co 3:18)

As disciples of Jesus, we do not follow the culture of this world, but we go to God’s Word and let His teachings mold our thinking into His will.

Paul tells us in Colossians 2:6: “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.”

Just as the caterpillar sheds its safe cocoon and bursts into a beautiful butterfly— totally different from the little creature that spun the cocoon— we, too, shed the old life of going along with what the world does and seek to do the will of Jesus.

Peter wrote in 2 Peter 1:4: “He has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.”

Long ago, David wrote in Psalm 119:15,16: “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.” In verse 97 of that same chapter, we read: “Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.” 

Then in verse 105, David tells us how God’s Word guides us: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

When feasting on the message God has given us becomes more important than spending time in the things the world offers, we will find we are transformed into the likeness of our Redeemer and LORD.

As we think about what is important to us, are we giving our lives completely to God to be holy and acceptable to Him?

Written byAyane Nayara, Brazil Assistant for Iron Rose Sister Ministries

When something comes into existence, it goes through several processes. A seed, when planted in the ground and watered, goes through several stages until it becomes a plant that bears fruit. It absorbs water, activates its embryo, and then begins the process of growth and development. It takes days, months, and years. And even when it grows and seems to be at its limit, it continues to grow and transform. With each season, it goes through changes and cycles until the end of its life. 

The Christian journey follows the same path… We are born in Christ, and then we enter a process of growth and transformation. It is spiritual, but it goes beyond that. It is a new lifestyle.

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2Co 3:18 NIV)

In chapter three of 2 Corinthians, Paul speaks about the moment when Moses went up the mountain to speak with God, and when he returned, his face shone so brightly that the Israelites could not look at him. Moses was in the presence of God. He was His representative, so his face reflected His glory, like a mirror.

Paul then makes an analogy to our lives today, but in a much more hopeful and free way. Through Christ, we can behold the glory of God and reflect His image in us. We do not need to cover our faces because the reflection of Christ that He transmits needs to be seen by the world with freedom through the Spirit and grace.

But this requires growth and transformation from us. It is Christ who needs to be seen, not us. And this transformation begins when we start to live with the Lord and spend time with Him. Looking at God transforms us. If we look at Him and contemplate Him as Moses did, we can reflect Him in our lives. 

For us to be close to God in this way, reconciliation is necessary. We cannot represent or reflect the image of someone we do not know or have a relationship with. “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God” (2Co 5:20).

If we continue reading the following chapters of 2 Corinthians, Paul mentions something that can hinder our process.

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (2Co 6:14-16)

What can hinder us the most is our attempt to maintain the same lifestyle as those who have no relationship with God while we try to reflect God. It’s contradictory. I am not saying that from the moment you reconcile with God, you will no longer have any relationship with those who are not connected to Him. On the contrary, we need to reflect Christ to these people. However, we need to adopt a new lifestyle in communion with others who have the same goal— to be transformed by Christ. 

For this, we have the Holy Spirit who guides us and transforms us from the inside out. And we have His church, full of men and women who are in the same process, being shaped by Him and sharpening one another.

And I have news for you: this process is not a one-time occurrence. It is ongoing! It is a daily journey of growth, in which we fight against sin and the things that want to separate us from God. The transformation will require perseverance from us. On this journey we will be pressured, we will be perplexed, we will be persecuted, but the Almighty God, whose ambassadors we are in this world, is with us. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2Co 4:8-9). 

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. (2Cor 4:6)

With this, I encourage you to seek more and more each day the transformation that only God can carry out in us.

Written by Liliana Henriquez, volunteer for Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Colombia

I don't know what has happened lately, but I have felt that the world has accelerated, and we are living life at high speed like "X2" in WhatsApp audios. On the one hand, it has been wonderful because we have managed to do many things in less time. Technology has helped us a lot and has made knowledge available to everyone. So there are no more excuses to grow and improve in any area of our lives. But, on the other hand, we live so fast-paced that sometimes, we forget to enjoy the moment and be grateful for the blessings that God is giving us day by day.

Today I want to focus on the positive side of this acceleration, and one of the things I love about this era is globalization. Geographical barriers are no longer obstacles to communicating and connecting with one another anywhere in the world. We already see our individual selves as a whole. We have normalized different time zones and cultures. We have friends and clients all over the world, and we feel they are super close thanks to video calls or Zoom meetings.

Another positive aspect of globalization is everyone's access to the Gospel. People are recognizing the need for Christ. We have seen it in the lives of artists and famous people who have publicly shared their faith journeys and inspired others to make the decision to accept Christ and obey the Gospel. That makes me very happy!

I feel that more and more people are using their platforms or channels of influence to impact the world positively, making Christ better known and giving relevance to the spiritual area. We are exercising our freedom in the right way.

Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. (1Co 9:19-23 NIV)

Christ is not religion. He is a relationship and a lifestyle. It should be noted that we are disciples of Christ not only in the church but in our work, friendships, relationships, etc. It doesn't make sense to be a Christian in select specific areas or places. We are a WHOLE; soul, mind, and body, and we must be coherent and congruent with what we profess. If we are Christians, we must act as Christians in our daily lives. In this way, we can put into practice one of my favorite phrases: "Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words" (St. Francis of Assisi).

We were called to make Christ known at every moment. This is the good news that this fast-paced world needs!

Written byKathy Reagan,volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Texas.

Think about someone you consider ‘an athlete.’ What comes to mind first? How hard they exercise and train and how dedicated they are, right? Rain or shine, they are carrying on with their training. Nothing stops them.

Are we just as dedicated to our spiritual training (Heb 5:14)?

I began my karate training at age 29. It helped me on many levels: physically (strength, flexibility, balance, and agility to name a few) and mentally (to stay focused and humble). It took three years of daily classes and practice outside of class to achieve my first black belt rank. After that, I was blessed to open my own dojo (karate school) which I had for over 20 years. I had many students throughout the years who trained hard, not only in my classes but also daily at home. These students were a constant delight!

There are many parallels between physical and spiritual training! For both: 

• We need the will to succeed – it takes deliberate effort.1 Corinthians 9:24 (ESV) says, “Do you not know that in a race, all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” God’s will is for each of us to “...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2Pe 3:18). Growth in any area isn’t easy, whether it’s physical, mental, or spiritual. But we choose to work hard, in the study of His Word, to see improvements in ourselves.  

• We need daily self-discipline – Let’s read on in 1 Corinthians 9:25, “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one.” Athletes train hard every single day, not just occasionally or when they feel like it, but consistently. 

• In what we internalize – spiritual food. Psalm 119:11, “I have stored up Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You,” and Colossians 3:16, “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly,” emphasize the importance of Christ living in us. We know that when we allow the world in through our eyes and ears (ungodly TV, videos, reading material, music), it’s like an athlete bingeing on junk food and expecting to do well in competition. It just won’t happen.
• In what we do – “But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct” (1Pe 1:15). In James 1:27, we see that God’s will is for us to “…keep oneself unstained from the world.”  
• In how we think - “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth”(Col 3:2).In 2 Corinthians 10:5, we’re instructed to “Take every thought captive to obey Christ.” 

Is self-control always easy? No, it is rarely easy. That’s why we rely on our Father, laying each struggle at His feet, bringing each challenge to Him in prayer.

• We need daily practice – Of the karate students I taught, the ones who succeeded were those who practiced daily, in class and at home. There are many ways to practice our service to God! What gifts has God given you? Do you have a heart for the poor? Are you able to teach? Are you a natural encourager? Do you love to show hospitality? Just like an athlete practices every day to get better, we also get better at serving God as we step out in faith and serve others. James 1:27 tells us “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction…”.

I had a few students, over the years, who achieved their black belts and then went on to open their own karate schools. They were fully trained. “A student is not above his master”, but when fully trained, will be like his master. Matthew 10:24-25

Spiritual training is so much more important in this life than physical training!

With physical training, you might get in great shape and be lightning fast, strong and agile, but that only has small value for a Christian.  Rather “…train yourself for godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1Ti 4:7-8). 

Sisters, let’s make the deliberate effort to grow in the grace and knowledge of God’s Word – study! Ask for God’s help daily to exercise self-control in all things – pray! And intentionally choose ways to imitate Jesus every single day by ministering to others – practice!

As spiritual athletes, I pray that we are a constant delight to our Father in heaven, obedient students who train hard in everyday life to be like our Master.

Written byJocelynn Goff, Volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Arkansas

“Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Mt 25:21a). As Christians, these are words of blessing and affirmation we all long to hear. They bring hope and peace to our souls as we live out our faith in a world full of struggles, hurts, and deception. This begs the question: How can we make sure we hear these words?

To answer that question, let’s look at the whole context of the story that Jesus tells us.

Again, it will be like a man going on a journey who called his servants and entrusted his property to them. To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability. Then he went on His journey. The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more. So also, the one with the two talents gained two more. But the man who had received the one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. The man who had received the five talents brought the other five. ‘Master, he said, you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.’ His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!(Mt 25:14-21) 

If we were to read further, we’d see that the man given two talents received the same affirming words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Mt 25:23a). However, the man who was given one talent did not receive these same words of blessing. Instead, he received harsh words from his master. “You wicked, lazy servant!” (Mt 25:26a).

Wait, couldn’t the one-talent man have also received the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? Yes, I believe he could have. However, he acted out of fear and assumed his master was a hard man, so he went and hid his talent in the ground.

In contrast, I’m confident that my parents, who have both recently ascended to their eternal reward, have heard those precious words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” They were definitely faithful stewards of the five talents that their Master had given them to bless others and give glory to Him. In turn, they were given other things with which to be in charge. While I realize that the reference in scripture refers to money, I believe it has application for abilities also. My parents used both money and abilities to multiply their Master’s Kingdom.

I’ve also known many faithful stewards who were given one talent but are not acting in fear, nor are they comparing themselves with those who have been given more talents. Rather, by faith, they are in the Kingdom business of using their money and abilities to the glory of God. 

The question to each of us is not what number of talents we have been given by our Master but rather are we faithful stewards of those talents? Are we using them or hiding them? I pray that each of us will assess ourselves, be about Kingdom business with what we’ve each been given, and will all hear the blessed words, “Well done, good and faithful servant”.

Written by Claudia Malaquias, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Minas Gerais

The ability to listen is a precious talent, often underestimated in a world where communication is generally understood as speaking. However, true wisdom and understanding come from the ability to listen with an open heart and mind. The biblical passages of Matthew 15:10 and Proverbs 1:5-6 provide a solid spiritual foundation for understanding a listening spirit's profound impact.

In Matthew 15:10, Jesus says, "Hear and understand” (ESV). These words are a direct call to the importance of listening carefully. Jesus often taught using parables, requiring the audience to listen carefully and thoughtfully to capture the true meaning of His words. This form of communication highlights that listening is not simply a passive act, but an active practice of understanding and internalizing the message.

Proverbs 1:5-6 adds to this idea, stating, "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables” (NIV). This verse suggests that the listening process is continual and essential for growth in wisdom. By listening, we gain not only knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge practically and effectively in our lives.

In my personal experience, adopting a spirit of listening has significantly transformed my relationships and my spiritual walk. I remember a time when I was facing a professional dilemma. Instead of acting impulsively, I sought advice and dedicated myself to listening carefully to more experienced colleagues. This practice not only helped me make a more informed decision but also strengthened my relationships in the workplace. The act of listening created a space of trust and mutual respect.

The habit of listening is also crucial in our family life. There are times when the people we live with (husband, children, siblings, etc.) need someone to listen to them without judgment or interruptions. By practicing active listening, we demonstrate love and empathy, which strengthens our bonds. I have learned that often solutions to problems arise not necessarily from what I say, but from the way I listen.

In the spiritual context, a spirit of listening also results in a deepening of our relationship with God. When meditating on the Scriptures and prayers, listening to God's voice requires silence and attention. There are times when the answers to our prayers do not come immediately, but through an ongoing process of listening and reflection.

Finally, a spirit of listening promotes humility. We recognize that we do not have all the answers, and that wisdom can be found in the experiences and knowledge of others. This recognition makes us more open to learning, and as a result, generates spiritual growth stimulated by the Scriptures (Heb 5:11-14; Pr 1:5-6; 1Pe 2:1-3; Col 1:9-10).

We can then distinguish some advantages of effective listening:

• Humility: Recognizing that we don't know everything and that others can offer us valuable knowledge and perspectives.
• Self-control: Practicing active listening requiring patience and the ability to control impulses to speak or interrupt.
• Openness to Criticism: Being willing to listen to constructive criticism and feedback as an opportunity to grow and improve.

In conclusion, what a listening spirit produces is transformation. It transforms our relationships, our spiritual understanding, and our personal growth. Matthew 15:10 and Proverbs 1:5 remind us that listening is more than a physical act; It is an exercise in wisdom and understanding. By cultivating a spirit of listening, we not only honor God, but we also position ourselves to receive His blessings and guidance more fully. In a world full of noise and distractions, choosing to listen carefully is an act of faith and wisdom that bears abundant fruit in all areas of our lives.

Written by Amanda Mirian, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in João Pessoa, Brazil

In 1 Samuel chapter 25, we find a story involving God, David, Abigail, and Nabal.

David was God's anointed. Nabal is described as a rude, evil, and foolish man; "such a wicked man that no one can talk to him" (v 17 NIV). He was the husband of Abigail, a woman described as intelligent and beautiful.

David and his men offered to protect Nabal's property and servants, charging whatever he could afford. Nabal was a financially prosperous man, but in his foolishness, he refused David's request. David, in turn, was enraged by Nabal's actions and swore to kill all the men in his house.

How do you deal with injustice? What is your behavior when something unjust happens before your eyes? 

The general tendency is to be overcome by anger, revolt, indignation, and the desire for the guilty party to be punished. "Whoever did such and such must pay for it!" Sometimes we forget about who was hurt or suffered the injustice, and we invest all our energy in punishing the guilty party. In this context, anger can turn me into an aggressor. 

Anger is part of our repertoire of basic emotions; it appears in situations that we consider unfair. It serves to establish boundaries and prevent further harm. The goal is to stop what causes suffering. 

Abigail was informed by one of her servants about what David had done for them and about Nabal's attitude. The servant said, "See what you can do" (v 17). She promptly stepped in to resolve the situation. She sent David and his soldiers a generous amount of supplies and went to meet him.

What would you say to an enraged general, marching with his 400 men, heading toward your house with the goal of killing every male? What would be the right words? What would change David's mind?

Abigail's attitude revealed the wisdom that comes from God: She listened to the needs of those who were offended, found ways to meet their needs, was a peacemaker, and based her words and actions on the fear of the Lord. She reminded David of the God he served and the battles that must be fought. 

In 1 Samuel 25:23-31, some of Abigail's words were: "The Lord your God will certainly make a lasting dynasty for my lord”; “you fight the Lord’s battles”; “no wrongdoing will be found in you”; “the life of my lord will be bound securely in the bundle of the living by the Lord your God”; “When the Lord…has appointed him ruler over Israel, my lord will not have on his conscience the staggering burden of needless bloodshed or of having avenged himself.”

Hearing Abigail's words, David praised the Lord for her, acknowledging that God used her and that with her good judgment, she prevented blood from being shed in the name of revenge.  

When Nabal learned all that had happened, he suffered a stroke and was paralyzed. About ten days later, the Lord struck him, and he died. When David learned of Nabal's death, he sent for Abigail and took her as his wife.

James 3:17-18 says, 

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

David's anger could never produce God's righteousness. The attitude of a godly woman is one of peace and good judgment.When your heart is filled with fury or when someone overcome with anger crosses your path, remember the attributes of God's wisdom, remember the God you serve, be a peacemaker, and remember that a woman filled with the wisdom that comes from above can prevent war.

Besides wisdom, another characteristic of Abigail was beauty. 1 Peter 3:3-4 says,

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

If we want to be wise and beautiful women, we need to seek these attributes from the Lord. The work of the Holy Spirit in our lives will shape our character and guide us in situations where our emotions call us to war. The right words and correct attitudes in these situations come from God, not from ourselves. We need to be at the feet of the Master, Jesus, listening to and practicing His word, so that we are ready to deal with difficulties – our own or those of the people who cross our path.

Written by Kathy Reagan, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Arkansas

God’s Word has many examples of women who were completely committed to God, and it will bless us to take a look at their lives and choices.

Matthew 27:55-56 (ESV) says that “many women” followed Jesus, and it names three in particular who ministered to Him, following Him from Galilee. Also in Luke 8:1-3, two more names pop up—along with the phrase “many others”— and it says these women, who followed along with Jesus and His disciples as they traveled from town to town, “provided for them out of their means.”

The mother of the sons of Zebedee is named, and what we know about her is that her husband owned a fishing business and James and John were her sons. Mary, the mother of James and Joseph, may have been Jesus’ mother. Mary Magdalene is mentioned, out of whom Jesus had driven seven demons. Joanna, the wife of Herod’s household manager, is also named, along with Susanna.

What did these women give up to follow Jesus?

Do you think they (and the many other women with them) had comfortable homes back in their hometowns? Possibly. Did they leave their families, their comfortable beds, and their familiar environments to follow Jesus along dusty roads into strange towns and villages to hear Him teach, and to provide His meals and other necessities out of their personal money? Yes.

They “walked by faith, not by sight” (2Co 5:7). Traveling was difficult in those days! No airplanes, trains, or cars. And for these people of limited means, horses or donkeys were not even an option. They walked anywhere they needed to go—slow, physically challenging, and dusty roads. Why? Because they “trusted in the Lord with all their hearts” (Pr 3:5). They were not choosing the comforts of this world; they were boldly stepping out of their comfort zones on faith—traveling to places they had never been, unsure of the reception they would get, not knowing when they would get to go back home. But they knew one thing: Jesus was with them! When was the last time we stepped out of our comfort zones for Christ?

They focused on Jesus, not allowing this world and its distractions to get in the way. Colossians 3:2 tells us to “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” They followed Him from town to town, drank in His teachings and His example, focusing on Him and not on what they were missing back home.

I’m reminded of the song we sing called, “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus.” It says, “Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” It is so true! Whatever we focus on becomes bigger. I know it may have been easier for these women to absorb Jesus and His teachings, hearing it from His own mouth, than it is for us now. But we do have His Words handy at our fingertips at any time of day. We need not travel hard every day to hear His teachings. It is just a matter of opening the Book. Do we drink in Jesus’ Word in our lives daily, like they did?

They put Him first in their lives. You know that as they followed Jesus, they heard Him teaching this: “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Mt 6:33) (referring to earthly necessities).

These righteous women were actively choosing God’s will over their own every day. They were traveling a hard road daily, sleeping in tents in a different place every night, spending their money to buy food and necessities for Him and His disciples so they could be with Him and learn from Him. They were following His example (even if not realizing it yet) from Luke 22:42, “Not my will but Yours be done.”

In what ways can we choose to put Jesus first in our lives today?

The excellent examples of these women who followed Jesus along the road can bless us today, as we see what their total commitment to Him looked like.

Sisters, I think it will bless each of us to ask ourselves a few simple questions, as we reflect on the wonderful examples these women left us.

What are we willing to give up to follow Jesus? Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones in faith for Him? Do we choose to focus on Jesus every day? Is “Not my will but yours” our standard in everyday life?

Written by Amy Mathis, volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries in New Mexico

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I live in the flesh, I now live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Gal 2:20 ESV)

On May 21, 2006, I was baptized at a church in the place that I lived in at the time. My oldest daughter was also "dedicated" on the same day. My baptism happened in the local YMCA because the church did not have a baptistry. (The church met in an old storefront.) I was a part of a mass baptism. I was baptized with two other people. When they attempted to put me under the water, they had to kick my legs from under me to get me submerged. That day after I was baptized, I did not feel any different: I didn't feel happy, I didn't feel joy, I just felt the same as I did before. As I later realized, I did not die to self or put on Christ. After that, I went to the same church for a while, but I just got burned out by being there. They were using me as an event coordinator, their "errands girl." So, I left. After leaving the church I went to other churches in the area, but I didn't feel loved, accepted (I was a single mom at the time), or fulfilled in God's Word. So, in short, I stopped attending church altogether.

Fast forward a lot of years later; years filled with a marriage, a miscarriage, a rainbow baby, several moves, the loss of loved ones, and a lot of life's ups and downs. I landed in Mayhill, New Mexico, after my husband accepted a preaching job at the Mayhill Church of Christ. We felt at home in the little mountain church. A year after we started at Mayhill, Troy and I attended a Soul Winning Workshop, in a town near Mayhill. During the workshop, they had us conduct an activity on how to win souls for Christ. During the activity, we "role played" a situation in which we talked about baptism. We asked each other if we were and if so, how we were baptized. My husband explained his baptism and I went on to explain mine. That was when I started to question my life in Christ. "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ, have put on Christ" (Gal 3:27 ESV). I did not feel like I had put on Christ back in 2006. After some prayer, getting more involved in the church, and soul searching, my baptism was heavy on my heart and in the back of my mind.

I was told about Higher Ground Ministries, and their upcoming spring retreat in March of this year. I thought about going, but first I had to do some research. After learning about them, I decided to go. It was one of the best decisions I have made. The ladies there made me feel loved, wanted, and accepted. They did not care that I was a preacher's wife. I was Amy, a child of God. During some of the talks on the first full day of the retreat, I was thinking about my baptism again.

After some prayer, I made the decision to be re-baptized. I did not tell anyone that night; I waited until the following day. First, I told my oldest daughter, Victoria, then I told my Heartfelt "mom" Ruth, my husband, Troy, and finally my Higher Ground "big sister," Andrea. Then it was announced to everyone at the retreat. At that moment, I could feel my Savior's arms around me. I told my husband that I wanted him to baptize me. We decided to do it during our afternoon service that Sunday. Once I got home from the retreat, we headed to the church. At 1:30 pm on Sunday, March 24, 2024, I died to self in the waters of baptism, and I put on the love of Christ! I felt so happy, loved, wanted and most of all, I now know that I am a true child of God, and I will never be the same again!

Statement from Iron Rose Sister Ministries: We rejoice with Amy in her decision to die to self, be united with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, and be clothed with Him. We respect her decision to commit her life more definitively to Christ. This blog post is insufficient for telling her whole story. And only God and Amy truly know all the details.

A blog post from last month details what it means to be Clothed with Christ in Baptism.

We are sharing Amy’s story and rejoicing with her being clothed with Christ. If you would like to discuss Amy’s testimony or any questions about baptism, we welcome the opportunity to talk and study with you.

Written by Michelle J. Goff, Founder and Executive Director of Iron Rose Sister Ministries

In preparation for the 2024 theme, “Committed to Christ, 24/7 in 2024,” I conducted a search of the uses of the word “commit.” Concordances provide a list of the occurrences of a word in the Bible. Sadly, I found the most frequent use of the word “commit” in the English Bible was in conjunction with the word, “adultery.” Ouch.

According to Merriam-Webster, “to commit” is 1. to carry into action deliberately (e.g. to commit a crime); 2. to obligate or bind (e.g. a committed relationship); 3. to put into charge or trust (e.g. committed by the court; commit to memory); 4. to obligate or pledge oneself (e.g. I commit my life to Christ.)

Returning to the Scriptures, references to committing adultery plague the Old and New Testaments. Instead of references to a commitment to God with a positive connotation, the pages of the Bible are riddled with stories of those who committed adultery and warnings to not commit adultery—personally or spiritually speaking.

Confronted by the harsh reality of the biblical references to the word, I was forced to analyze why adultery was the most frequent usage. A realization hit me: If we are not 100% committed to God, we commit spiritual adultery.

The 7th commandment is “You shall not commit adultery.” This command to “not commit” is the opposite of the first three commandments “to commit [to YHWH].” Those initial three are an admonition and invitation to commit ourselves wholly and completely to God—with our lives, our worship, our speech, and our actions.

The prophets often referred to Israel prostituting herself to foreign gods. God asked Hosea to marry Gomer as a testimony of how many times God forgave and took back Israel, His imperfect bride. Jeremiah specified the invitation of repentance to Israel by explaining that God would restore her to being “Virgin Israel,” as if the adultery had never happened (Jer 31:3-4). Clean slate. Committed to God, no longer committing adultery.

When I consider how I spend my time and energy or where I focus my thoughts and my money, I realize what I am or am not committed to. And if any of those things on the list come higher than God, I am committing adultery.

When God invites us, His church, to be the bride of Christ, the perfect Lamb, He highlights how He is 100% committed to His bride (Rev 19:7, 21:9). In return, He longs for us to remain committedly faithful to Him. Thankfully, His faithfulness is not dependent on ours (2Ti 2:11-13 NIV):

Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,


we will also live with him;


if we endure,


we will also reign with him.


If we disown him,


he will also disown us;


 if we are faithless,


he remains faithful,


for he cannot disown himself.

Committing to Christ, 24/7 in 2024, does not mean that we will do it 100% faithfully every minute of every day. If we think we can or will, we make ourselves out to be liars.

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1Jn 1:8-9)

We should walk in the light as He is in the light (1Jn 1:8). God is Light and Christ was sent as the Light of the world (1Jn 1:5; Jn 8:12). He shines light on the way to live as faithful followers—those committed to Christ and not those who commit spiritual adultery.

Committing to God is committing to the eternal nature of ourselves, as designed by our divine Creator. It is truly the greatest blessing of our lives. And the reward for faithful, committed service? Eternal life with Him.

Share one way in which a faithful commitment to Christ has been a blessing in your life. Conversely, what is one way you are currently committing spiritual adultery?

Written byMichelle J. Goff, Founder and Executive Director of Iron Rose Sister Ministries

A smile, a seat on the bus, a cup of cold water… There are many ways we can be kind and generous toward others, which is the primary encouragement found in the third parable of Matthew chapter 25.

The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Mt 25:40 NIV) 

The King welcomed those into His Kingdom who had put His words into practice, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” those who practiced love for Him by extending that lovingkindness to others.

The recipients of the King’s blessing were surprised at His words because they did not remember serving Him. He recognized the simple act of the mother who shared food with the hungry child who came over to play with her own children. He honored the consistent way in which the businesswoman brought an extra bottle of water for the homeless man who sat in front of her office building. He celebrated the women who donated new clothes to the battered women’s shelter, not just the forgotten items in the back of the closet.

The parable about the sheep and goats at the end of Matthew 25 follows two others that also emphasize the importance of good stewardship— the proper management of what God has provided. The five virgins who took sufficient oil were intentional about planning ahead. The first two men, with five and two talents respectively, administered well what they had been given, thus multiplying it for when the master returned. Finally, the sheep were blessed by the Father and given their inheritance (Mt 25:34) because they honored the Father and took care of “the least of these.”

For us to be wise women, we must be good stewards of what God has provided.  

1. Recognize that all that we have comes from God.The virgin’s oil, the men’s talents, and whatever the people used to bless others, everything comes from the Great Provider.
2. Be intentional about how we use what God has provided. The wise virgins didn’t share their oil with the foolish virgins, but the sheep were affirmed for sharing their food, drink, and clothing with others. Both practices have their place in the Kingdom.
3. Keep a Kingdom focus.Prepare for the Bridegroom, work for the Master, and honor the Father by fulfilling His commands to love.
4. Check our motivation. Are we falling into the trap of comparison? Are we doing things so that others will see us? Will someone recognize Christ through what we do or say?
5. Avoid selfishness. If we are going to love and care for others, there will be sacrifices. But remember, we serve a God of abundance who graciously provides beyond what we could ask or imagine.

Take a moment to reflect on these five points. During a week in which many are focused on the birth of Christ, how did Jesus embody and inspire us to do whatever we can for the least of these”?

Finally, using the Common Threads, let’s make it very personal and practical.

From Matthew 25, name an area in which you want to grow or bloom.

What is a thorn that needs to be removed, possibly something that is hindering you from loving “the least of these”? 

Is there an area in which you want to dig deeper or need someone to hold you accountable (iron sharpening iron, Pr 27:17)? 

One way to dig deeper is to read the entire 25^th chapter of Matthew and pray over these three parables, asking God to reveal the application for your life. 

Amidst the holiday season, let’s extend God’s lovingkindness to others and give thanks when others do the same for us. We would love to hear your stories or see pictures of how God has provided opportunities for this to happen!