Counsel #15 — Valuing Women

Picture: Counsel #15 — Valuing WomenCSI 17.1

In the context of first-century Palestine, it was uncommon for men who were not part of a woman's family to engage with her in any manner. However, Jesus broke with this convention numerous times. He conversed with a woman at a well, shared meaningful interactions with Mary—one of those occasions being when she anointed His feet with perfume, and showed care towards the woman afflicted with a bleeding disorder by affectionately referring to her as "Daughter," a term laden with warmth and tenderness ‒ just to mention a few.^{[41]https://ssnet.org/blog/christs-radical-treatment-of-women/}CSI 17.2

In today’s era, we think of brave Malala Yousafzai's fight for girls' education in Pakistan;^{[42]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4627198/} her courage mirroring Jesus’ example to take a stand in valuing women in today’s society.CSI 17.3

Following Jesus and Malala’s footsteps, you can respect and empower women in society by actively listening to their voices, supporting their endeavors, and advocating for their equal rights and opportunities. In this way you acknowledge their unique strengths and capabilities —affirming their intrinsic value.CSI 17.4

"And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” Luke 8:48 ESVCSI 17.5

“Why should not women cultivate the intellect? Why should they not answer the purpose of God in their existence? Why may they not understand their own powers, and realizing that these powers are given of God, strive to make use of them to the fullest extent in doing good to others…?” Ellen White in Good Health, June 1, 1880, par. 6CSI 17.6

Reflect: Have you seen bias against women occur? What was the circumstance? How could you take a stand against such treatment?CSI 17.7