Our world places a high value on independence and self-sufficiency, often telling us that we need to be strong, confident, and in control of our lives. Because of this, we wear the label “independent woman” as a badge of honour. We openly display our self-sufficiency, hoping to be perceived as having it all together, for fear of being seen as weak or inadequate by others.
However, we must ask ourselves if this is what God is looking for in a woman of God. The Bible provides us with many examples of women who were vulnerable and open with God, despite their circumstances. These women show us that He is not seeking an independent woman who has it all together. Instead, He is looking for a woman who is willing to be vulnerable, open, and trusting of Him, even amid difficult circumstances.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF VULNERABILITY AND OPENNESS IN WOMEN
One example of vulnerability in the Bible is the story of Hannah. She was barren and taunted for it constantly. Yet, Hannah poured out her heart to God in prayer and was eventually blessed with a son, Samuel. Hannah’s story reminds us that it is okay to be honest with God about our deepest desires, fears, and struggles. In fact, God wants us to come to Him with our vulnerabilities, knowing that He hears us and cares about our needs.
Another example of vulnerability is Ruth. She left her home and her people to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, to a new land. Ruth was vulnerable in her faith and obedience, and God blessed her with a new family and a future. Ruth’s story is a reminder that following God’s lead may require leaving behind what is familiar and comfortable because of the plan and purpose He has for our lives.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a young, unmarried woman when she learnt that she was carrying the Saviour of the world. Despite the challenges she faced, Mary was vulnerable in her faith, trusting God to guide her through this uncharted journey. Mary’s story shows us that God often calls us to do things that are beyond our comfort zone; they may even have the potential to disgrace and ostracise us from friends and family, but when we trust in Him, He equips us for the task at hand and will restore our honour.
Deborah was a judge and prophetess in Israel, known for her wisdom and guidance. She was vulnerable in her obedience, following God’s lead even when it wasn’t easy or popular. Deborah’s story teaches us that obedience to God may require taking risks and standing up for what is right, even when it may be difficult.
GOD VALUES VULNERABILITY AND OPENNESS
All these women demonstrate that God values vulnerability and openness in His followers. He wants us to be willing to admit our weaknesses, doubts, and fears and trust in Him even when the future is uncertain. God does not expect us to have it all together, but He does expect us to trust in Him.
He’s looking for a woman who is willing to follow His lead, no matter where that may take her. He’s looking for a woman who wants His understanding and is willing to let go of her own. He’s looking for a woman who is willing to look foolish to everyone else because His way is different and mysterious—a way that is contrary to the ways and ideas/ideals of the world. He is looking for a woman who is willing to share her testimony because she knows it will bring freedom to others.
WEAKNESSES CAN STRENGTHEN
Furthermore, being vulnerable with God strengthens our relationship with Him. When we’re open and honest with Him, we’re building a deeper level of trust and intimacy with Him. We’re allowing Him to be a part of every aspect of our lives, and we’re inviting Him to work in and through us in a greater way.
Being vulnerable with God and for His glory takes courage and faith. It means admitting our weaknesses to Him, ourselves, and others, all while we surrender our lives and desires to Him. However, it is in these moments of vulnerability that we experience the fullness of God’s love and grace. We must remember that God already knows everything about us, even before we say a word, so there is no need to hide or pretend.
When we are vulnerable with Him, we allow Him to work in our hearts and minds in more extensive ways and thus build a deeper level of trust and intimacy with Him. We give Him the opportunity to transform us and make us into the person He created us to be.
When we allow God to be the one in control, He gives us strength and peace amid trials and hardships, guides us through difficult decisions and challenges, and works in us and through us to accomplish His purposes.
Tricia-Anne Morris is an intercessor, missionary, author, and transformational speaker.