THE POWER OF A WOMAN

THE POWER OF A WOMAN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Judges 16:4-21

Key Verse: “Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.” – Proverbs 14:1

Supporting Texts: Genesis 3:1-6, Ruth 1:16-17, Luke 8:1-3, Proverbs 31:10-31

Description: Women carry extraordinary influence and power that can either build or destroy, bless or curse, depending on how they use it.

INTRODUCTION
Women occupy a special place in God’s creation and plan. From the beginning, God designed woman as a helper suitable for man (Genesis 2:18), signifying that her role was crucial to the fulfilment of God’s purposes on earth. This power is neither secondary nor insignificant but is a divine tool that can shape generations.

Throughout Scripture, we see women exerting profound influence for good or ill. Eve’s choice in the Garden of Eden impacted humanity, while Delilah’s betrayal brought down a mighty warrior. Jezebel threat made Elijah the great Prophet to run away.
On the other hand, women like Ruth, Mary Magdalene, and Priscilla used their influence to advance God’s kingdom. This duality demonstrates that a woman’s power is undeniable and must be channelled wisely.

In today’s world, the power of a woman remains as potent as ever. Women can nurture faith, build homes, strengthen ministries, and even change the course of nations. But if misused, this same power can cause harm, division, or downfall. Understanding and honouring this power is essential for women and men alike.

1. THE INFLUENCE OF A WOMAN CAN SHAPE DESTINIES
A woman’s voice, actions, and decisions can redirect the course of lives and nations.

a) Influence in the home (Proverbs 14:1)
A wise woman builds her home with godly wisdom, but a careless one can destroy it through foolishness.

b) Influence in leadership and society (Judges 4:4-7)
Deborah’s leadership brought victory to Israel, proving that God uses women to change the destinies of nations.

c) Influence in spiritual matters (Genesis 3:6)
Eve’s influence over Adam altered humanity’s history, showing the weight of a woman’s choices.

d) Influence in ministry and missions (Acts 16:14-15)
Lydia’s generosity supported the growth of the early church, demonstrating a woman’s power to advance God’s work.

Biblical Example: Queen Esther used her influence to save her people from destruction (Esther 4:14-16).

2. A WOMAN’S POWER CAN BUILD OR DESTROY
The same power that can lift others up can also tear them down if misused.

a) A woman can lift her husband or pull him down (Judges 16:15-17)
Delilah’s manipulation led to Samson’s downfall, showing the danger of misused influence.

b) A woman can bring blessings or curses (1 Kings 21:25)
Jezebel’s wicked counsel to Ahab brought judgment on their house.

c) A woman can uphold righteousness or promote sin (Genesis 19:26)
Lot’s wife’s backward look disobeyed God and cost her life, impacting her family’s destiny.

d) A woman can heal or wound communities (Philippians 4:2-3)
Paul urged Euodia and Syntyche to reconcile, showing that women can either create division or unity in the church.

Biblical Example: Abigail’s wisdom saved her household and prevented David from bloodshed (1 Samuel 25:32-35).

3. GOD USES WOMEN TO ADVANCE HIS KINGDOM
Women have always been part of God’s redemptive plan.

a) Women ministered to Jesus (Luke 8:1-3)
Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna supported Jesus’ ministry with their resources.

b) Women were present at key moments of salvation history (John 20:11-18)
Mary Magdalene was the first to witness and proclaim the risen Christ.

c) Women teach and disciple others (Acts 18:26)
Priscilla, alongside her husband Aquila, taught Apollos the way of God more accurately.

d) Women are channels of generational blessing (2 Timothy 1:5)
The faith of Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice nurtured a great church leader.

Biblical Example: Ruth’s loyalty and faithfulness brought blessings to Naomi and secured her place in the lineage of Jesus (Ruth 4:13-17).

4. THE RESPONSIBILITY THAT COMES WITH A WOMAN’S POWER
With great influence comes great accountability.

a) A woman must seek God’s wisdom (Proverbs 31:26)
Speaking with wisdom and kindness ensures her power uplifts rather than destroys.

b) A woman must uphold integrity (Titus 2:3-5)
Godly character ensures her influence is righteous and pure.

c) A woman must be a builder, not a breaker (Proverbs 14:1)
She should use her strength to nurture faith, family, and community.

d) A woman must recognise her role in God’s plan (Jeremiah 29:11)
Understanding that God has a purpose for her ensures her decisions align with His will.

Biblical Example: Hannah’s prayerful dedication brought forth Samuel, who became a prophet and leader in Israel (1 Samuel 1:20-28).

5. HONOURING THE WOMAN’S ROLE IN GOD’S KINGDOM
Men and society must acknowledge and honour the unique role of women.

a) Women are partners in God’s work (Genesis 2:18)
God created woman as a helper suitable for man, not as an afterthought.

b) Women are vital to church growth (Romans 16:1-2)
Paul commended Phoebe for her service to the church, highlighting women’s contributions.

c) Women bring compassion and nurturing (Isaiah 49:15)
Their God-given tenderness reflects God’s care for His people.

d) Women leave lasting legacies (Matthew 26:13)
The woman who anointed Jesus will always be remembered for her act of devotion.

Biblical Example: Deborah’s leadership and courage brought peace to Israel (Judges 5:6-7).

CONCLUSION
The power of a woman is undeniable. It can shape destinies, build nations, and advance God’s kingdom when used wisely. But when misused, it can bring destruction, division, and regret. Women must recognise their influence and steward it with godly wisdom and humility.

As men and the church honour the role of women, and as women walk in righteousness and discernment, God’s purposes are fulfilled, and His glory is revealed through their lives.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help women everywhere to recognise and use their influence for Your glory.
2. Father, give women wisdom to build their homes and communities.
3. Lord, protect families and ministries from the misuse of influence.
4. Father, raise godly women to advance Your kingdom in this generation.
5. Lord, bless every woman serving in Your vineyard with strength and grace.
6. Father, grant men understanding to honour and support the women in their lives.
7. Lord, heal families and communities broken by wrong influences.
8. Father, let every woman’s life be a testimony of Your power and love.
9. Lord, inspire women to nurture faith and righteousness in the next generation.
10. Father, establish every woman in her divine purpose and assignment.

GOD’S WORD FOR YOU TODAY
1. You shall walk in wisdom and use your influence to build and not destroy.
2. You shall be a blessing to your family, church, and community.
3. You shall not misuse your power but will glorify God with your decisions.
4. You shall raise generations that will honour and serve the Lord.
5. You shall see God’s favour as you steward your role with humility.
6. You shall bring healing and encouragement to broken places.
7. You shall be remembered for your acts of faith and devotion.
8. You shall inspire others to draw closer to Christ through your example.
9. You shall experience God’s covering and provision in every season.
10. You shall fulfil your divine purpose and leave a lasting legacy of righteousness.