The Role of Older Women
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Lord, as we delve into Your Word today, help us to understand the vital role of older women in the faith community. May we learn to honor and emulate their wisdom and guidance. Amen.
"Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children."
Titus 2:3-4 NLT
REFLECT:
Paul continues his instructions to Titus, focusing on the older women in the church. He emphasizes the importance of their behavior and their role in teaching and guiding the younger women. His instructions highlight the significant influence they have within the church and family. The term "reverent" suggests a life that is holy and respectful, reflecting a deep commitment to God. This reverence is contrasted with behaviors that can be destructive, such as slander and addiction to wine.
Slander, or gossip, can tear communities apart. It often stems from insecurity and a desire to elevate oneself by putting others down. Paul urges older women to avoid this behavior and instead focus on teaching what is good. This teaching is not limited to formal instruction but includes modeling godly behavior in everyday life.
The role of older women in mentoring younger women is crucial. They are to urge younger women to love their husbands and children, which implies nurturing relationships and creating a godly home environment. This mentorship helps to pass down the faith and values from one generation to the next, ensuring that the legacy of faith continues.
For us today, this passage challenges us to consider the influence of older women in our lives. Are we seeking their wisdom and guidance? And for the older women, are you living in a way that younger women can look up to and learn from? The call to teach what is good is a call to live out the Gospel in practical, everyday ways. Consider how you can mentor a younger woman in your community. If you are a younger woman, seek out an older woman whose life reflects godly wisdom and ask her to mentor you. Additionally, be mindful of your speech and actions, ensuring they reflect reverence and godliness.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will find someone or be someone who will show God's goodness to the world.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the wisdom and guidance of older women in the faith. Help us to honor and learn from them. May our lives reflect reverence and godliness, and may we teach what is good to those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.