In every season of life, whether calm or stormy, prayer remains the anchor for the believer. It is in the quiet moments of heartfelt communion with God that strength is renewed, purpose rediscovered and love overflows—not just for God but for others. Among the most powerful examples of this dual call—looking up in prayer and reaching out in care—are the countless women who serve faithfully, often amid great adversity.
Looking Up to God in Prayer
“I lift up my eyes to the hills – Where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).
Looking up to God in prayer is more than a spiritual discipline; it is a lifeline. Scripture assures us that when we seek God in sincerity, He listens. Prayer is a posture of dependence, a recognition that our strength is not in ourselves but in the One who sustains us.
For many women, especially those juggling family, work, ministry and personal struggles, the practice of prayer is a well-worn path paved with tears, trust and tenacity. In the hidden places of early mornings or late nights, prayers ascend like incense before the throne of grace (Revelation 8:3-4). These women may never preach a sermon or stand behind a pulpit, but their prayers are powerful sermons in themselves.
Consider Hannah, who poured out her soul before the Lord in anguish over her barrenness (1 Samuel 1:10-15). Her silent lips and tear-streaked face were misunderstood even by the priest, yet God heard. Her prayer, raw and unfiltered, became the foundation of answered promise—Samuel, the prophet. Hannah looked up to God in her pain and emerged in peace and purpose.
Reaching Out to Others in Care
Prayer transforms the heart and compels the hands. When we have touched heaven, we are better equipped to touch others. This is the divine rhythm—look up, then reach out.
Women throughout Scripture embody this rhythm. The Shunammite woman extended hospitality to the prophet Elisha without expecting anything in return (2 Kings 4). Her care was proactive and sacrificial. She made room—literally and spiritually—for the purposes of God, even while navigating her own pain.
In the New Testament, we meet Tabitha (also called Dorcas), a disciple known for her acts of kindness and charity. “She was always doing good and helping the poor” (Acts 9:36). These were not grand gestures, but faithful, everyday acts of love and service.
When she died, the widows she had clothed stood weeping, showcasing the garments she had made for them. Her legacy was stitched not just in fabric but in love. Even in her passing, her care spoke volumes—and God, through Peter, raised her to life again.
Today, women all around us continue this legacy—praying fervently, serving quietly, giving generously. Some are single mothers raising children with grace and grit. Some are caregivers to ageing parents, battling their own health issues while still offering comfort to others. Some are widows who have turned their grief into ministry. Some are women in ministry themselves, bearing the burdens of their congregations while lifting them up in prayer.
Their secret? They look up to God continually and reach out to others consistently. Their lives echo Paul’s encouragement: “Do not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).
Serving Despite the Circumstances
It is important to acknowledge that these acts of care often come at a cost. Time, energy, finances, even emotional reserves are stretched thin. Yet these women persist—not because it is easy, but because it is necessary. They are driven by love, fuelled by faith and empowered by prayer.
One modern-day example might be the woman who leads a prayer group every morning before her shift at the hospital. She battles chronic illness but chooses to intercede for others. Or the grandmother who cooks extra meals for her struggling neighbours, even while living on a fixed income. Or the young woman mentoring teenage girls, despite having grown up without a mentor herself.
Their circumstances could easily justify retreat or resignation. But instead, they rise. Not by their strength, but by God’s grace. “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come” (Proverbs 31:25).
Called and Commended
God sees every prayer and every act of care. He honours the prayers whispered in the dark and the acts of kindness no one else notices. “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them” (Hebrews 6:10).
To every woman—and every man, young or old—who feels unseen in their service or unheard in their prayers, know that the Lord sees you. He hears you. And He is using you in mighty ways, even in the small things.
So, keep looking up to God. Keep reaching out to others. And know that in doing so, you reflect the heart of Jesus Himself—who prayed for us and gave Himself for us.
(Photos: Unsplash.com)
Read also: Looking Up in Humble Repentance, Reaching Out in His Grace and Providence
