Heels, Handbags and Hustle with Rachel Position Yourself for Opportunities with Rachel Earp
This is a powerful episode about a prominent business woman who boldly positioned herself for a life-changing opportunity.
Lydia is a significant figure in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament. She is mentioned in the book of Acts, specifically in Acts 16:14-15 and Acts 16:40. Lydia was a prominent businesswoman from the city of Thyatira, which was located in the region of Macedonia (present-day Turkey).
In the biblical account, Lydia is described as a worshiper of God, which suggests that she was a Gentile who believed in the God of Israel but had not yet converted to Judaism. During her encounter with the Apostle Paul in Philippi, she listened to his teachings and became the first recorded convert to Christianity in Europe. She had an open heart, which positioned herself for one of the most impactful opportunities...not just for her, but her household and future generations.
Lydia's story is significant for several reasons:
First European convert: Lydia's conversion marks a significant milestone in the spread of Christianity. It represents the beginning of the Christian faith's expansion into Europe, which eventually played a crucial role in shaping the history and culture of the continent.
Hospitality and generosity: Lydia is known for her hospitality and generosity. After her conversion, she opened her home to Paul and his companions, providing them with a place to stay and support for their ministry. Her actions demonstrate the importance of welcoming and supporting believers in their work and the significance of practicing hospitality as a Christian virtue.
Independent and influential woman: Lydia is described as a seller of purple cloth, which was a luxury item often associated with the wealthy. This indicates that she was a successful businesswoman and likely held a position of influence in her community. Her story challenges gender norms and highlights the role of women in the early Christian movement. Lydia's example encourages women to use their skills, resources, and influence to further the work of God.
Overall, Lydia's story in the Bible highlights the inclusiveness of Christianity, the power of hospitality and generosity, and the significant role women played in the early development of the faith. Her conversion and subsequent support for Paul's ministry played a crucial part in the spread of Christianity in Europe.
Furthermore, Lydia's story serves as a reminder of the inclusiveness of the Christian message and its ability to touch lives regardless of social standing or cultural background. Her conversion played a role in the early growth and establishment of Christianity in Europe, leaving a lasting impact on the development of the faith.
There is so much we can learn from her, and in this episode, I unpack many powerful truths from her story.
I also want to share with you a phenomenal book I've been reading on effective speaking, which I mention in this episode. Check out the book I'm reading by clicking the link below:
Find these resources and more by heading over to www.rachelearp.com. I would love to connect with you, Friend! Let me know what you think of this episode, and please share it with someone you know who needs to hear this message today!