Written byMarbella Parra, volunteer for the Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Honduras 

As we read the Bible, we find many exemplary stories of women who, with what they had in their hands, did important things that influenced the lives of others and left a mark on eternity. In the New Testament, we find the story of a woman who anointed Jesus with a very expensive perfume, and when criticized by those around her for "wasting the perfume," Jesus defended her by saying, "She did what she could" (Mk 14:8 NIV). He recognized her sincere dedication and her willingness to give the best she had, regardless of the criticism of others. No more was demanded of her than what she could offer, but her act of love and devotion was recorded as an example for all. These words resonate as a reminder that God is not calling us to do the impossible but to be faithful with what we have, whether it be our time, talents, resources, or efforts. It's about living with an attitude of surrender and trusting that God uses every little act done with love for His glory.

As women of God, we have been challenged to put wisdom into practice in our daily lives, as Matthew 7:24 says: "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.". Wisdom is not simply accumulated knowledge, but action based on divine truth.

The woman who anointed Jesus did not wait for perfect timing or approval from others. She simply acted with love and gratitude. In the same way, each of us has daily opportunities to do what we can with what God has placed in our hands. Perhaps it is a word of encouragement, a prayer, an act of service, or a personal sacrifice that, although may seem small, has a great impact on the Kingdom of God.

In my case, my mother has been a great example in this regard. She taught me that even though I had no experience working with children, I could serve in children's ministry and learn how to develop my gifts for God. She taught me that even though I didn't have the gift of public speaking, I could teach other young women and girls with my life and teachings. She taught me that the Lord could use me in His work if I would make my life available to Him. So, I can say that she was an example to me that, although she didn't have all the gifts that she thought she needed, her love and willingness to serve God were greater; she always strived to give what she could and was within her reach for God. 

I am sure that each of us strives daily to give the best to God, and we must value that to continue motivating ourselves to do better each time according to the abilities we have. Today, I want to encourage you to think about the things we are giving to God and never underestimate our effort and dedication, as long as it is with selfless love. 

Practicing wisdom as a woman of faith involves building on the rock, making decisions with discernment, and acting courageously. It is not a matter of having everything figured out, but of moving forward with what God has given us at this moment. At the end of our day, may we hear in our hearts the Lord's sweet affirmation, "She did what she could," knowing that every act done with love and obedience has eternal value.

What can you do today with what you have in your hands to honor God and bless others?

Written byMichelle J. Goff, Founder and Executive Director for Iron Rose Sister Ministries in Arkansas

A first-century Hebrew legend states that a good disciple is covered in the dust of the Rabbi. He follows his teacher’s steps so closely that he cannot escape the dust kicked up by his sandals.

A wise woman who practices closely following the steps of Jesus (1Pe 2:21) will be covered in the dust of the Rabbi. What will she look like?

1. She will love God and seek Him first (Mt 6:33, 22:37).
2. She will be known for Christ’s love in her (Jn 13:35).
3. She will talk with God at all hours (Lk 6:12).
4. She will openly express her feelings to God through prayer (Mt 26:42).
5. She will ask for the support of others (Mt 26:37-38).
6. She will serve others (Mt 20:28).
7. She will be holy: set apart for a purpose (2Pe 1:16).

This is not an exhaustive list. What other characteristics come to mind that a follower of Christ would “pick up” in the dust of the Rabbi? 

The more we walk with Him and talk with Him, the more like Christ we will become. Acts 4:13 is one of my favorite verses because it was obvious to others that two simple, ordinary men had been with Jesus.  

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.(NIV)

 Can you recall a moment in which it was obvious to others that you had been spending time with Jesus?

At the end of a women’s retreat, after a time of worship on Sunday morning, after a Bible class digging deep into the Word, after an intensive time in prayer… any time we can spend in relationship with our Teacher will become the overflow from which we live, act, and speak. Jesus spoke with His Father frequently so that His words would always be an accurate representation of His Father (Jn 12:49).

One Wednesday night, my mom was on the phone with a friend who commented on how exhausted my mom sounded, recognizing how discouraged she was about a situation. “I am tired,” mom admitted, “but I need to go on into the church building. Thanks for your prayers.” 

Mom called the friend back after the evening services, and her friend observed, “Wow! You sound like a different person. Are you still tired? I can tell you were truly uplifted by the time with other Christians.”

When we walk in the dust of the Rabbi, we also have the blessing of spending time with others who are “dusty.” None of us walk the Christian walk perfectly. We are practicing. When one falls, another is there to pick us up (Ecc 4:10). And the closer we each follow in the Rabbi’s steps, the deeper we grow in relationship with one another. A wise woman who practices following closely in the steps of the Rabbi will walk with other disciples who are following Jesus. 

Connecting to God and one another more deeply, equipping other women to do so… sounds like a great idea for a women’s ministry!  

How do you want to grow closer to Jesus, walking in the dust of the Rabbi?

What is a thorn hindering you from following in His steps?

How can you have another Iron Rose Sister encourage or accompany you to “get dusty”? Thank each other for the opportunity to serve as iron sharpening iron as we practice following in the steps of the Rabbi.