Anemic Women of the Christian Faith

Update: Many readers have found this post harsh. I can understand this. Please know, I consider this for myself first. We must take the Lord's word in it's entirety. While his love and grace cover all our sins, neither does He expect us to stay in our elementary knowledge of Him. We are to grow and mature. In order to do so we must take the saltiness of His word with the sweetness. If we do not, we are in danger of no longer being the salt of His earth.

You are dear to me. The reason I wrote these words is because they have me written all over them. I tend to be most firm on subjects that I see myself in. Please read the comments and add your thoughts. Blessings!

Today's Christianity rarely sees women worthy of being praised.

Oh, they get it all right. 

They get praised for getting their sweet, darling little selves to church on time with the whole family in coordinating outfits. They are praised for participating in Bible studies, teaching Sunday school, or any other thing that people see and deem good.

Nothing wrong with that. Part of every woman wants to know her efforts are appreciated.

But, most Christian women have been pumped so full on this sugary sweet, foo-foo-ey type praise, they've started believing that soaking up and gushing out praises coated with syrup in high pitched tones for no reason other than showing her face, is normal.

As a result, they get their heads stuck so far up in the clouds, feeding on marshmallows of “you're just so precious!” and bon-bons of “how sweet and darling can you be?!” type of stuff, that they've become anemic in their faith.

They've become weak. Not just weak, but weak-willed as well. They have no backbone when it comes to their faith. They've become wishy-washy, lackluster. They exude feeble character. They buckle and fall apart like a dandelion head at the first poof of wind.

They've become ineffectual, ill-equipped to cope with any situation that might mean standing firm in their faith. Not only are they ill-equipped, they've become flat out insipid, lacking an interest in growing the faith they do have. They just like knowing everything is sweet and lovely and kind and generous and....foo-foo-ey. They have no conviction, no desire, no hunger for the one true God.

They just sit there on their fine little fanny growing more and more anemic with each passing day.

If you're that kind of woman, I'll tell you what I told thousands of women here: It's time you grow up. It's time you open that word of God and start getting a feel for what is real. You start feeding and feasting on God's unending buffet, complete with free refills of His living water. Then you order up yourself a good dose of “test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind” (Psalm 26:2) and you pray for the courage to live in full reliance on His faithfulness.

For now, we are going to look at examples of women who are not anemic. Exceptional women who are worthy of being praised. Exceptional women just doing every day life in every day ways.

1. The mom who bravely submits to homeschooling her children when it would be so much easier to send them to school.
2. The wife who works long hard hours beside her husband establishing their family business.

3. The mother up all night holding her child through a sickness.

4. The mother who sits beside her child's hospital bed, day in and day out.

5. The grandmother raising her grandchildren.

6. The teenage girl who chooses to keep her child.

7. The wife who bravely forsakes her family, friends and all things familiar to follow her husband and his vision, which he is fully persuaded holds much more promise than that of staying where they are.

8. The widow or single mom raising up little ones to be mighty arrows.

9. The wife who forgives her husband's infidelity the first time...the second time...the third time...
10. The mother who buried her child before his or her time.
11. The missionary wife and mother. 
12. The chronically ill woman.
13. Think of that one woman you would name far from having an anemic faith. Put her name here_______.

What makes her exceptional?

Is it the circumstances placed upon her? Maybe she's still young, so could it be her vitality? Maybe she's experienced a lot in life? Or maybe she hasn't been knocked down quite as many times? Maybe its just her personality, you think?

Or maybe she's an exceptional woman because she nurtures a not so anemic faith.

She's not afraid of taking a stand for the right.

She's not afraid of getting her hands dirty, stained and calloused.

She's not afraid of being tired.

She's not afraid of being lonely.

She's not afraid of doing more than her share.

She's not afraid of what people say.

She just knows right here and right now, in her present situation, she has a God who sustains her. She has a God who promises a hope and a future to the faithful. And she has set her mind to being faithful till her very last breath.

She knows her God is far from anemic Himself, and because He made her in His likeness she can stand tall and strong, laughing at the days to come. Laughing at whatever breeze or gale may come storming her way. She doesn't run in fear or cower under the enemy's threats like women with an anemic faith do.

She bravely calls for her God. He answers her and He makes her bold. Then He finishes with a flourish, dousing her with an ample supply of stoutheartedness.

She digs in and does what needs to be done to the amazement of those around her. Some laugh at her. Some scorn. Some betray. Many wonder, certain she has fallen off her rocker or will be falling soon.

Yet, she stands tall and strong. She squares her shoulders, bravely marching on with her sword of truth and sheild of faith, head held high and her eyes glued to the prize He holds for His exceptional, stouthearted women of the faith.

Listen, she's not exceptional because she's not scared. She's probably scared out of her mind.

She's exceptional because she is not anemic. She's not complacent. She's not weak.

She's exceptional because she's far from being anemic in her faith.  >>tweet this<<

"So, because you are lukewarm-

neither hot nor cold-

I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

~ Revelation 3:16 ~

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Dear Christian Woman, It's Time to Grow Up

Yes, Ma'am. That's you.

When you were saved, I wonder if you sat at Jesus' feet for a while and reveled in the awesomeness of this new, indescribable, unending, all healing, all powerful love you found in your Saviour? I hope you did because that's exactly what you should have done. That's exactly where you belonged. That's exactly where He wanted you.

I trust you enjoyed the knowledge of being His princess while you were being fed the spiritual milk of His love that you so desperately craved. Today, I hope you thrive in that knowledge while still being lavished with His love.

In 1 Peter 2:2 you are told to “crave pure spiritual milk.” First Corinthians 3:1-2 says you are given “milk, not solid food for you were not ready for it.”

Then in Hebrews 6:1-2 you are told to “leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity.” Ephesians 4:14-15 says to “no longer be infants...Instead,...in all things grow up into Him”.

Plain and simple, we're being called to grow up. We can't forever stay in that first knowledge of Him. We know that.

So, as all Christians do, we pray to be made like Jesus. We want to be “transformed into His likeness” as 2 Corinthians 3:18 says, but somehow we do not realize that the transformation into His likeness is not a future event. Instead, it is a present activity. 

Its a way of life.

Maybe you have a less than ideal marriage. As Christian wives we are called to do good to our man even when he isn't good. Proverbs 31:11-12 “she does him good and not evil all the days of her life.”

Maybe you have a child who is forever pushing every single button you've got. As Christian mothers we are called to be patient and self-controlled, displaying an attitude of Jesus.

When that neighbor allows his dog to poop on your lawn, do we, in a gentle and peace-loving attitude go out there and 'scoop the poop'?

Pun intended, because a whole lot of a humble Christ honoring life involves 'scooping the poop' - doing what others won't. Honoring others above ourselves. Displaying a servants heart when we are both in a position of authority or in the mundane of everyday life.

As a Christian women, we say we believe what is written in Gods book and, oh yes! We want to do His will, but when it comes right down to the nitty-gritty, we're just too proud. We are appalled that our faith be called to action over something like cleaning up after our neighbor's dog.

We'd rather shout our God's name from the rooftops, become a household name or start that new ministry. But we can't minster to the hearts of those in your very home.

Listen Christian women, if we're married, our first ministry is to our husband. Our children are a close second. If we can't humbly serve and minister to them first, then we have no business venturing on to other things. No business whatsoever.

Christian women. We are being called to step up to the plate and put that living, breathing Word of God we hold in our hands, into action.

Walk that extra mile.... Do that extra thing.... Say that extra kind word.

Y'all, it's time to grow up.

It's time to get our derrieres off our cushy little thrones, take off the crowns that say, “I'm a princess & you're not so I can't serve you”, strap on some hip waders, buckle up that belt and go do that work of God we keep talking about.

I want to see some of that.

Real women, living real lives, showing off the real Jesus.

Grow up. In Him. >>TWEET THIS<<

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Verses for When You Need Confidence

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: 

that if we ask anything according to His will, 

He hears us.” 

~ 1 John 5:14 ~

“Have no fear of sudden disaster 

or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, 

for the Lord will be your confidence 

and will keep your foot from being snared.” 

~ Proverbs 3:25-26 ~

“So do not throw away your confidence; 

it will be richly rewarded. 

You need to persevere 

so that when you have done the will of God, 

you will receive what He has promised.” 

~ Hebrews 10:35 ~

“The fruit of righteousness will be peace; 

the effect of righteousness will be 

quietness and confidence forever.” 

~ Isaiah 31:17 ~

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Verses Encouraging Right Choices

“I have set before you life and death, 

blessings and curses. 

Now choose life so that you and your children may live, 

and that you may love the Lord your God, 

listen to His voice and hold fast to Him.” 

~ Deuteronomy 30:19-20 ~

“then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve....

But as for me and my household, 

we will serve the Lord.” 

~ Joshua 24:15 ~

“Choose My instruction instead of silver, 

knowledge rather than choice gold, 

for wisdom is more precious than rubies, 

and nothing you desire can compare with her.” 

~ Proverbs 8:10-11 ~

“Listen to advice and accept instruction 

and in the end you will be wise.” 

~ Proverbs 19:20 ~

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Verses for When You are Burdened

“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Saviour, 

who daily bears our burdens. 

Our God is a God who saves, 

from the Sovereign Lord comes escape from death.” 

~ Psalm 68:19-20 ~

“Come to Me, 

all you who are weary and burdened, 

and I will give you rest. 

Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, 

for I am gentle and humble in heart, 

and you will find rest for your souls. 

For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” 

~ Matthew 11:28-30 ~

“I am feeble and utterly crushed; 

I groan in anguish of heart. 

All my longings lie open before You, O Lord; 

my sighing is not hidden from You. 

...I wait for You, O Lord; 

You will answer, O Lord my God.” 

~ Psalm 38:8-9,15 ~

“Cast all your care on the Lord and He will sustain you; 

He will never let the righteous fall.” 

~ Psalm 55:22 ~

“The Lord uphold all those who fall 

and lifts up all who are bowed down.” 

~ Psalm 145:14 ~

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You're Not as Dumb as You Think You Are: 5 Reasons to Put Down That Devotional and Pick Up the Actual Bible {Blog Swap with Michelle Lesley}

Recently, I met Michelle Lesley. Her writings immediately captivated me and I knew I would love to share her with you! Michelle invited me to do a blog swap with her and for the next four months, I plan to share a post of her's on the first Monday of each month. On the same day she will be sharing one of my posts. I'm excited to do this with her, but even more excited that you get to read her writings!

Here is a little bit about Michelle:

She and her husband have been blessed by the six wonderful children God has brought into their lives. She loves being a stay at home, home schooling mom and enjoys reading, staying active at church and in women’s ministry, spending time with family, and training church ladies to be mighty “Amazon women” of God.

Here is one of my favorites from her: (Don't you just love that title?! Captivating!)



As a women’s Bible study author and teacher, I have the unique privilege of talking to women from all kinds of backgrounds about their spiritual lives. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had women share with me that they didn’t grow up in church, or they grew up in a church that “didn’t allow” them to read the Bible, and now they have to use a Bible study or devotional book in their quiet time or they’re afraid they won’t be able to understand the Bible. My heart goes out to these ladies because they desperately want to learn from God’s word, but somewhere along the way, someone or something has convinced these perfectly intelligent women–I haven’t met a dumb one, yet– that they’re not good enough or smart enough for God’s word.

Ladies, you are not dumb. God created you smart enough to understand the Bible, and He created the Bible to be understandable. He loves you and wants you to read, embrace, and apply His word to your life. So don’t be afraid to throw that Daily Bread out the Open Windows of your Upper Room and read a chapter out of your Bible instead. Why?


GO HERE to read of the 5 reasons you need to open the actual Bible. They are great! 

While you are there, please leave a comment or follow Michelle in some way. Either social media or get her future posts emailed so you can continue to learn from her. You won't be disappointed!

Read more about Michelle's Blog Swap here.

Verses for When You Need Boldness

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, 

but a spirit of power, 

of love and of self-discipline. 

So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.” 

~ 2 Timothy 1:7-8 ~

“without being frightened 

in any way by those who oppose you. 

This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, 

but that you will be saved- 

and that by God.” 

~ Philippians 1:28 ~

“Surely God is my salvation; 

I will trust and not be afraid. 

The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; 

He has become my salvation.” 

~ Isaiah 12:2 ~

“When I called, You answered me; 

You have made me bold and stouthearted.” 

~ Psalm 138 :3 ~

“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; 

He will never leave you nor forsake you. 

Do not be afraid; 

do not be discouraged.” 

~ Deuteronomy 31:8 ~

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Verses for When You Feel Angry

“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, 

for anger resides in the lap of fools.” 

~ Ecclesiastes 7:9 ~

“A patient man has great understanding, 

but a quick-tempered man displays folly.” 

~ Proverbs 14:29 ~

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, 

but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 

~ Proverbs 15:1 ~

“A fool gives full vent to his anger, 

but a wise man keeps himself under control.” 

~ Proverbs 29:11 ~

“Better a patient man than a warrior, 

a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.” 

~ Proverbs 16:32 ~

“Get rid of all bitterness, 

rage and anger, 

brawling and slander, 

along with every form of malice. 

Be kind and compassionate to one another, 

forgiving each other, 

just as in Christ God forgave you.” 

~ Ephesians 4:31 ~

“My dear brothers, take note of this: 

Everyone should be quick to listen, 

slow to speak and slow to become angry, 

for a man's anger does not bring about the righteous life

that God desires.” 

~ James 1:19-20 ~

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Verses for Developing a Right Attitude

“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: who...made Himself nothing, taking on the very nature of a servant...He humbled Himself...” 

~ Philippians 2:5-8 ~

"Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you."  

~ Romans 12:3 ~

“put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires, to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God 

in true righteousness and holiness.” 

~ Ephesians 4:22-24 ~

“Rid yourself of all the offense you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit.” 

 ~ Ezekiel 18:31 ~

“Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope. Patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

...Practice hospitality.” 

~ Romans 12:10-13 ~

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

~ 1 Thessalonians 6:16-18 ~

“ I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow My decrees and be careful to keep my laws.” 

~ Ezekiel 36:26-27 ~

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” 

~ Psalm 51:10 ~

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When Fulfilling Your Marital Duty is a Matter of Self-control

Self control isn't just about controlling yourself from doing things.

Its also about controlling your SELF to do things that you don't feel like doing.

For example, take a look at 1 Corinthians 7:3-5:

"The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 

The wife's body does not belong to her alone 

but also to her husband.

In the same way, 

the husband's body does not belong to him alone,

 but also to his wife. 

Do not deprive each other...

so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control."

The wife's body does not belong to her alone...I wonder if that annoys you sometimes. If you're like me you may have thoughts like, "This is my body! I can do with it what I want. Don't make me do with it what I don't want. What do you mean, this is also my husbands body? He needs to control himself."

A very wise woman said, "Never withhold sex as a way to get back at your husband." 

Another once asked me, "Honey, do you really think your body is so special that you should keep it from your husband?"

After I scraped my jaw off the floor and had a few days to mull it over, I realized how right she was.

You see, we are called to honor one another, bear with one another, encourage one another, build each other up according to the others needs. (Ehp.4:29)

Key words being, ACCORDING TO THEIR NEEDS, because that is the greatest way to communicate love. 

That means, you shouldn't focus solely on what you want, or what you think, or what you think you need.

Instead, get out of your little "it's all about me" box and realize that your husband has needs that only you can & only you SHOULD fulfill. Sometimes that means doing what you don't feel like doing, when you don't feel like doing it.

Your husband has a need. The question is not, "Do I feel like fulfilling his sexual need tonight?" But rather, "Am I going to use my body to bless my husband, according to his need and according to my marital duty?

We are told in 1 Corinthians 6:20 to "honor God with our body". This is used in a different context, but the lesson can still be the same. Are you going to honor God and the marriage bed with your body, or are you going to purposely withhold yourself from your husband and then expect him to be able to stand all manner of temptations?

He's not super man. You shouldn't expect him to be.

I'm not suggesting that if your husband falls or indulges in extra marital affairs that it's your fault.

I am suggesting, however, that by controlling your body to do for your husband according to his needs, that if your husband does fall short of the marriage vows expectations, you will be able to stand faultless and blameless, knowing you did what God asked you to do.

Self-control. Control your body and your will in ways that encourage and build up your marriage and your husband in ways that are esteeming and edifying ACCORDING TO HIS NEEDS. 

Christ did it for you. He willingly died for you because you had a need.

Won't you die to your self and do for your husband according to his?

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Here are a few ways to prepare yourself to minister to your husband:

1. Prepare mentally. Yes, think about him. Prepare your mind to take action. (1Peter1:13,4:7-8) Then when he reaches for you, you'll be prepared for his touch and prepared to indulge his need.

2. Prepare physically. If you feel more confident and prepared for your husband after you have a shower, ask him to allow you ten minutes to prepare yourself. Wear a little something special just for him. Outward appearance is a confidence issue for most women, so prepare yourself physically. You will feel better prepared, he will be thankful for a wife willing to engage.

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Verses for when you need Acceptance

“I will call them 'my people' who are not my people; 

and I will call her 'My loved one' who is not my loved one.”

 ~ Romans 9:25 ~

“How great is the love the father has lavished on us, 

that we should be called children of God! 

And that is what we are!”

 ~ 1 John 3:1 ~

Jesus says, 

“I no longer call you servants, 

because a servant does not know his master's business. 

Instead, 

I have called you friends,...

you did not choose Me, but I chose you...” 

 ~ John 15:15-16 ~

"Praise be to God, 

who has not rejected my prayer 

or 

withheld His love from me!"

~ Psalm 66:20 ~

"You are forgiving and good, O Lord, 

abounding in love to all who call to you."

~ Psalm 86:5 ~

"Whoever is wise, 

let him heed these things 

and

 consider the great love of the Lord. "

~ Psalm 107:43 ~

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