Ladies, this Word is for you!

You are so valuable and unique – please let this truth sink deep into your soul and spirit!

I want to share some powerful insights inspired by a teaching from Kristi McLelland, founder of New Lens Biblical Studies. Her words opened my eyes to an incredible truth. After sharing her wisdom, Kristi encouraged us: “Go live like a river and share it – don’t be like a lake and keep it.” The image stuck with me!  Let's let God's truth and strength flow through us to everyone around us. Everything in this post is inspired by Kristi's work, whose passion is to help people read the Bible through a Middle Eastern Lens. It has transformed the way I see the women in God's story—and myself, too.

The first word God ever spoke to women was Ezer Kenegdo.

“The Lord God said, “It’s not good for man to be alone.  I will make a helper suitable for him.”Genesis 2:18.  In English, when we think of the word helper – we think of someone who is secondary or subservient.  Not so from this Hebrew word.  Read on….

Helper is a Strong Word - A Warror Word

In Hebrew, ezer means helper, aid, or strength. Almost every place in the Bible where ezer appears in the Bible, it refers to God Himself - as one who saves, strengthens and protects Israel. God is an ezer to Israel. Look at these examples:

• Deuteronomy 33:29 - “Blessed are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord?  He is your shield and helper (ezer) and your glorious sword.”

• Psalm 70:5 - "Yet I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God.  You are my help (ezer) and my deliverer; O Lord, do no delay.” 

• Psalm 115:9 - "O house of Israel, trust in the Lord – He is their help (ezer) and shield.” 

• Psalm 121:9 - “I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help (ezer) come from?  My help (ezer)comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.  He will not let your foot slip – He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

After Kristi shared all of this, she asked us – and I will ask you, “Do you feel like Wonder Woman?”

HELPER is a STRONG Word – it is a Warrior Word. 

HELPER is vital and essential.

HELPER is NOT secondary or subservient.

HELPER is a Glorious Sword and a Shield - a word of strength, hope, and mission.

Kenegdo – means suitable. 

The second keyword, kenegdo, is unique and used only once in the Bible. It means one who stands in front of, or opposite, or alongside someone. Kenegdo (suitable) describes someone who comes side by side and/or face to face in a rhythm or relationship.

Brad Gray explains it this way:

Ezer Kenegdo describes the function of a woman. It is a statement of who she is, not what she is.  The woman is given a purpose for existing.  This is not a marriage term but a verb describing a woman. Faith is a verb, what you do, not what you say. So, being an ezer kenegdo is about your purpose and strength, not just your role. It was never meant to be limiting - it's empowering! You are called to stand in strength and partnership, to bring life, support, and courage to the world around you.

Live This Truth

Now, GO feel special, empowered, and unique with the purpose of conquering the World! Don't let old misunderstandings or the limits others place on you hold you back. Let go of the past teachings or lies that made you feel "less than." Read Genesis 2:18 again with fresh eyes and invigorated hope. Let this truth break down old boundaries and free you to walk forward with the eyes of Jesus and a heart full of renewed hope.

A Prayer Blessing for You

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of these precious women reading today. May Your love pour over each one, filling them with courage, hope, and deep assurance of their value in You. Remind them that they are created as strong helpers - ezer kenegdos - uniquely designed with purpose, strength, and beauty.

Break down every lie that has ever told them they are "less than" or "not enough." Replace discouragement with delight and insecurity with holy confidence.

Let Your truth flow like a mighty river through their hearts, blessing everyone around them. Strengthen them to rise up in Your empowering love, to serve, lead, nurture, and fight for good - reflecting Your heart in all they do.

May they walk forward with renewed joy and boldness, knowing they are chosen, necessary, and fully loved.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

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For more information about Kristi McLelland, go to her website.   New Lens Biblical Studies.  She has several excellent Bible studies through Lifeway.   Click on this link:   Jesus and Women.