Helping Women Thrive in the Local Church with Keri Folmar (S2E41)
Aug 26, 2024
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Keri Folmar, a pastor's wife and author involved with the Evangelical Christian Church of Dubai, shares her insights on helping women thrive in local church settings. She discusses eight essential principles drawn from her book, emphasizing the importance of spiritual vitality and genuine relationships in Christ. Keri highlights the unique challenges women face within church life and offers practical resources for empowerment. Listeners will appreciate her reflections on community support, engagement, and the transformative power of faith.
Establishing a genuine relationship with Christ is fundamental for women to thrive and engage deeply within the local church community.
Balancing the roles of sitting under preaching and serving in ministries prevents burnout and fosters effective spiritual nourishment for women.
Deep dives
Unique Challenges for Women in the Church
Women face several unique challenges that can hinder their ability to thrive in local churches. One major issue is the independent spirit prevalent in Western culture, leading many women to prioritize independence over community belonging, thus making it difficult for them to engage deeply with church life. Additionally, past experiences of abuse and a general distrust of authority, especially in male-led settings, can make women hesitant to enter or participate in church. Other barriers such as the isolation faced by single women amidst families and the struggle of balancing home responsibilities also contribute to the difficulties women encounter in integrating fully into church communities.
Essentials for Thriving in the Church
To thrive in the local church, women must first establish a genuine relationship with Christ, as this forms the foundation for spiritual growth and community involvement. Beyond personal faith, joining a church community and being committed to regular attendance at weekly gatherings are crucial for building meaningful relationships and support systems. Being actively engaged allows women to both receive and offer support, fostering a communal environment that promotes spiritual health. Additionally, the emphasis on shared experience within the church reinforces that individuals are not alone in their struggles, thereby enriching the sense of belonging among members.
The Importance of Balance: Sitting and Serving
Finding a balance between sitting and serving is essential for women in the local church. While serving in various ministries is commendable, women often feel the compulsion to constantly meet needs, potentially leading to burnout. Taking time to sit under the preaching of God's Word is vital for spiritual nourishment, as engagement with scripture is key for personal and communal growth. Prioritizing spiritual input equips women to serve more effectively, ensuring that their service stems from a place of strength and understanding of faith.
Cultivating Family Dynamics Within the Church
Embracing the church as a family enriches the community experience and fosters deeper connections among members. Women are encouraged to take on roles as mothers and sisters within the church, engaging in mentorship and support that not only aids their personal growth but also serves to strengthen the church body. This family dynamic allows for accountability, shared wisdom, and a communal environment that drives spiritual development and encourages open discussion about faith-related challenges. By fostering such an atmosphere, women and men alike benefit, ensuring that all members feel valued and supported in their spiritual journeys.
In this episode Caleb is joined by Keri Folmar, pastor's wife, author, and member of the Evangelical Christian Church of Dubai. Together, Caleb and Keri discuss eight essential principles to help women fully engage in the context of the local church based on her book from 9Marks, How Can Women Thrive in the Local Church?
Resources
How Can Women Thrive in the Local Church? by Keri Folmar https://a.co/d/dFDuo7G
How Can I Grow in Hospitality? by Keri Folmar https://a.co/d/euW2CyQ
*Keri has written The Good Portion: Scripture and five inductive Bible studies for women: Joy! on Philippians, Faith on James, Grace on Ephesians and The Son of God, Volumes I & II, on the Gospel of Mark. She also contributed to Word Filled Women’s Ministry and the ESV Women’s Devotional Bible.
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