In the crucible of global conflict, women in ministry emerge as pillars of resilience and agents of profound change. Amid the unique challenges of each locale, specifically in impoverished and warring nations, these women courageously navigate volatile environments, steadfast in their commitment to spreading the Gospel through servant-hearted care and compassion.

Having witnessed firsthand the impact of these women in our ministry within these regions, their resilience becomes even more evident. In Haiti, where poverty and instability loom large, they offer solace and support to subcommunities grappling with adversity. In the complex landscape of Israel and Palestine, they navigate the intricacies of conflict, quietly advocating for peace and reconciliation through their personal ministries.

Through women in nations of oppression and strife, the power of God transcends homes of abuse, cultural stereotypes and demoralized circumstances. It is in the faithfulness of these female figures that the transformative power of the Gospel is exemplified to the most precious and neglected member of society.

The Heart of the Home
Women serve an unparalleled role as the heart of the household. With tender love and care for each member, wives and mothers offer a gentle Spirit in presenting the Gospel message to their children and in praying for their husbands with fervor and faithfulness.

I’ve witnessed countless households transformed in both Haiti and the Middle East by women who gave their lives to Jesus and subsequently brought the patient love of the Lord into their homes. This distinct, powerful role of women is nothing shy of God’s perfect design, providing a rippling hope that is birthed in the household through the warmth and provision of these women of faith.

Evangelism and Discipleship for Other Women
Another specialized benefit women bring to the table through their powerful testimonies is that of sharing the Gospel with other women. When these mothers go to work, oftentimes in the marketplace with their babies strapped to their backs, they are met by other women, friends who are also mothers and wives doing the same tasks in the home and at work. Likewise, at our clinics and specialized education programs for disabled children, women are able to bond over tea, sharing about similar struggles, comforting and encouraging one another. It is in these spaces of commonality that these women of faith are presented with special opportunities to share the Gospel message with others.

Through these bonded women, walking through the same heartaches amid nations in chaos, war and poverty, Jesus is providing newfound hope and joy. Countless women who have known oppression their whole lives have come to experience miraculous freedom in receiving the hope of the Gospel—and all because other women chose to pursue them and disciple them for the Kingdom of God.

Serving the Most Vulnerable
Finally, due to the nurturing character women innately possess, they have another unique calling—helping the most vulnerable members of society, the otherwise forgotten, the elderly and disabled populations. Without women avidly tending to these beloved people, they would be brushed aside and further abused by society. Oftentimes, the elderly are written off as burdens to their own cultures, and the disabled are painted as being cursed individuals—both groups, widely neglected in these types of societies worldwide.

But I’ve borne witness to the powerful compassion of faithful women of God, transcending these tainted stereotypes. In offering the tangible aid and softened kindness of Jesus to these ‘lowly’ members of society, these people realize that they are seen and loved by the God of the universe—that they are not mistakes, curses or burdens. Rather, through the servant-hearted care and love of these bold women, the transformative power of the Gospel is being revealed to the ‘least of these.’

What Can We Learn from These Women?
In witnessing the remarkable work of women in ministry in countries of turmoil such as Haiti and those in the Middle East, we are presented with profound lessons on faith, compassion and resilience. These women, each uniquely made and placed especially where they are meant to be, exemplify the enduring power of the Gospel in the face of adversity. From their unwavering commitment to spreading the message of love and tenderness to their profound impact within the home and beyond, they embody God’s call to outpour His love and grace in every aspect of life. Their ability to navigate volatile environments with courage, to foster faith within the home and to extend compassion to the most vulnerable members of society serves as an inspiring example for us all.

Through their bold witness, we learn the importance of unwavering faith, compassionate service and steadfast commitment to spreading the transformative message of the Gospel to the darkest corners of our world. May we also empower these sisters in Christ through prayer and ongoing support, raising awareness of all they endure for Christ’s glory within each of their distinct mission fields.