Page 33 - EW Magazine 5-2 FINAL

extraordinary women Volume 5 I ssue 2 33

The open, collegial and consensus-building style of women leaders works well when it comes to pulling together a group of people, getting them on board with a vision, and working toward positive results.

Deborah joined Barak and also suggested a strategy that led to victory. As a military leader, she engaged her leaders, included them in making decisions and used her problem-solving skills to build a team that would defeat the enemy.

4. Women leaders take more risks. Biblical example: Rahab was another discerning deliverer who negotiated an agreement for her own protec-tion. When spies infiltrated her city, she hid them and took a risk by forging an agreement for her safety and the safety of her family. Siding with Israel was considered an act of treason, punishable by death (for both her and her family). Her risk paid off. When the invaders came and killed everyone in the city, she and

her family were saved from destruction.

In all four biblical examples, the women in leadership were spiritually prepared to lead. Esther fasted. Deborah sang praises to the Lord. Jochebed feared God. Even Rahab, the harlot, knew the history of the Israeli people and could recall how God moved on their behalf. She eventually committed herself to Israel’s God and showed great faith.

God used these women to bring about changes in history. The biblical examples of women leaders should encourage you today. In what ways do these leadership qualities apply to your life? Are you persuasive when you need to be? Do you learn from adversity and move forward? When decisions are made, do you include others and care about those you serve? Are you willing to take a risk and stand for justice?

If so, be ready. God may use you for such a time as this. ]

Reference

Women Leaders Study: The Qualities that Distinguish Women Leaders. Caliperonline.com. 2005.

Linda Mintle, Ph.D., is the founder and Vice President of her own media company, PureMedia Group, Inc. As a national speaker, author of 16 books, assistant professor and national news consultant, she hosts her own Web site, drlindahelps.com.