Our first issue of Real Women! encouraged us to “Stand Tall” as daughters of the Lord—taking our place in His Kingdom. After meditating on the article in the first issue—I have found myself reaching as tall as I can for the things of God.
Some of the challenges God has before you may take several times of “stretching” to reach them. Our spiritual muscles must be exercised to a firmer, stronger level for us to maintain our hold even after we make the initial grasp. As we stand tall—any character imperfections or shortcomings become much more obvious—thus making us a bigger, better target for the enemy of our soul and for our own heart to wage condemnation. As we “stretch to stand tall” we also need to run after or pursue excellence . I believe the guest article by Jean Stephens concerning “pursuing excellence” is a good “next step” for us to strive for.
The concept of “pursuit” takes on a feeling of running, with the determination of capturing. Many women pursue a unique outfit to wear to a special celebration or function—looking for “just the right look” to enhance their participation—so they feel they look their best. As we pursue excellence we give God the opportunity to “dress us in His clothes of righteousness” which are clean, unwrinkled and do not have spots! Adding the ornaments of wisdom, the characteristic of graciousness will only enhance our ability to glorify our God. Remember the character of God looks good on any of us! I would like to encourage us to seek God for His character….for, as Jean so aptly puts it “it is our gift to God”. What a marvelous idea!
- Martha Rodman