If you’ve spent more than five minutes with me in the last year, you’ve heard me rave about my new favorite Hebrew word: Ezer.
I was introduced to this word last March at the Synergy conference where I sat on the edge of my seat listening to Carolyn Custis James talk about an essential truth for all women: that we are called to be image-bearers for God, and that we have a uniquely feminine identity as ezers (rhymes with razor). Ezers are called to use their influence and relational gifts to be strong warrior helpers for God. Ezers are women who fiercely defend their families, who champion the causes of the young, the poor, the oppressed. They are women who understand what it means to steward their talents for God, whether at home, at work, or in their endless spheres of influence.
Today I got to share my ezer-love message with the women at Perimeter Church in Atlanta. Yes, I was thrilled by the madonna-esqu headset mic that reminded me of my hip-hop aerobics teacher days. My ego was certainly inflated by my personal “speaker care” person, in case the crazy paparazzi were to attack me as I left the stage. Just joking, but not about my speaker-care friend…who was an absolute gem and made me feel so welcome! Women on Wednesday (WOW) at Perimeter is a ministry my sister-in-law started and it was such an honor to be with them.
What a comfort and joy to know that the issues women struggle with–independence, insecurity, balance and guilt–are not bound by geographic location or stage of life. That the only way we can be freed from these chains is through finding our uniquely feminine identity in Christ. So, to all the ezers out there–continue to glorify God with the unique way He’s made you. Fix your eyes on Him so that you might be unhindered in your influence and obedient to your call!
If you’re looking for more inspiration, here’s the two books I shared today:
Intimate Conversations, Alicia Britt Chole
Amazon.com: Intimate Conversations: Devotions to Nurture a Woman's Soul (9780800732899): Alicia Chole: Books
and for new moms:
Mama’s Got a Fake ID: Caryn Dahlstrand Rivendiera
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