I remember as young adult being thrilled when there was a woman headlining as the keynote speaker for a major event (shout out to Danielle Strickland). Most of my adolescent memories are filled with experiences dominated by male preachers. Honestly, I wish that in my formative years there had been more examples. I can remember the women who have gone before and blazed a trail-those who have fearlessly proclaimed the Word of God. I can pray that the Holy Spirit will use me, I can pray for tenderness and forgiveness in my spirit for those who think differently than I do, and I can pray for the Lord’s will to be done. I encourage you also to be on guard against that same bitterness. I cannot let a seed of bitterness grow in my heart towards those who think differently. I cannot harbor resentment towards those who believe differently than I do.

I choose to react with the help of the Holy Spirit. I can react in two ways: Either with the help of the Lord, or with an attitude of entitlement and anger. But in reality, I realize that there are people, some who I deeply love and respect as fellow believers and Christian leaders, who think that I should not preach to co–ed congregations because of my gender. In my head, and in my heart I know statements like that are absurd. In fact, in one YouTube video I was shocked to read the title “Women pastors are not saved.” Yikes! I’m a preacher. You will be reminded of how many people think differently than you how they can read the same Word of God and interpret it to say that you are not allowed, capable, commissioned, wanted or encouraged to teach and preach the truths of Scripture. Do not Google “preaching as a woman.” Trust me, you will regret it.

Why not women by loren cunningham