Sisterhood in Action: Uplifting through the 2024 Election

Morgan Farr, a "military wife," cares deeply about America. She is also a Christ-follower who teaches women how to think biblically. In this Elections UPGRADE—now that the important 2023 elections are over—Morgan looks ahead to what may prove to be a profoundly crucial year gearing up to the 2024 elections.

“What if," she asks, "we used SISTERHOOD to help our community through the 2024 Presidential election?”

I (Dawn) think Morgan’s suggestions for making a difference in local communities are a wonderful idea!

Morgan continues . . .

We are called to be salt and light in the world, and one of the most impactful ways we can do this is by actively participating in the political process. The 2024 presidential election presents a unique opportunity to unite, support one another, and make a difference in our nation.

How we can uplift one another through this election, grounded in the wisdom of Romans 12:10?

Paul says,

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor (ESV).

S-I-S-T-E-R-H-O-O-D in Action!

S — SUPPLICATE for Personal Guidance

Before diving into the practical aspects of getting involved in the election, start with prayer.

• Seek God's guidance for unity among Christian women, regardless of political differences.
• Pray for wisdom and discernment as you navigate the complexities of the election process.

Remember that Romans 12:10 encourages us to love one another with brotherly affection, even when our political views differ.

I — INFORM Yourselves.

Empower yourselves and your sisters in Christ with knowledge about the candidates and issues at stake.

• Host informational sessions or invite guest speakers to provide insights into the candidates' positions and the potential impact of their policies.
• Encourage fact-checking and discernment to make informed decisions.

S —SUPPORT Voter Registration.

Help one another register to vote. It's a practical way to uplift Christian women.

• Organize voter registration drives within your church or community. 
• Ensure that everyone eligible has the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

This aligns with the biblical principle of stewardship, as we are called to be responsible citizens in Romans 13:1.

T — TALK with Each Other.

One way to uplift one another during the election is to engage in civil discourse.

• While differences of opinion are natural, approach conversations with respect and humility.
• Listen actively to the perspectives of your sisters in Christ and share your views thoughtfully.
• Use your discussions as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Keep in mind Proverbs 15:1:

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (NIV).

E — ENCOURAGE Voting on Voting Day.

Motivate your Christian sisters to exercise their right to vote.

• Share the significance of voting in a democracy and its impact on our nation's direction.
• Remember that voting is not just a civic duty but also an opportunity to be good stewards of the influence God has given us.

R — REACH OUT to Your Community. 

• Consider volunteering your time and skills for a campaign or an initiative that aligns with your values.
• Whether it's canvassing, phone banking, or offering marketing or event planning expertise, your contribution can make a significant difference.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us of the importance of not growing “weary in doing good.”

H — HOST with Puposeful Hospitality.

Christian hospitality can heighten participation during the election year.

• Create a safe and supportive community for Christian women during the election season.
• Offer encouragement and a listening ear to those who may find the process overwhelming or stressful.
• Get creative!

Acts 4:32a reminds us of the power of unity:

All the believers were one in heart and mind (NIV).

O — ORGANIZE Prayer Gatherings.

Prayer is a powerful tool in any election.

• Organize prayer gatherings within your church or community.
• Pray for:  the election process, the candidates, and the nation.
• Believe that unity in prayer—praying together and counting on God's presence—can bring about positive change!

This is emphasized in Matthew 18:20:

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them (NIV).

O — OPERATE with Understanding. 

Amid passionate discussions and differing viewpoints, remember the importance of grace and forgiveness. 

• Extend godly grace to your sisters, especially when disagreements arise.
• Practice biblical forgiveness when disagreements go too far.
  

Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to:

“be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (NIV).

D — DEMONSTRATE Christlikeness. 

Ultimately, as Christian women, we should do all to the glory of God — with Christlike choices and responses.

• Our vote should align with our values and principles—rooted in faith.
• In Christlike humility, seek guidance from Scripture, prayer, and the counsel of fellow believers as you make your voting decisions. 
• Trust that your choices reflect your commitment to love, justice, and righteousness.

The 2024 presidential election allows Christian women to uplift one another through unity, knowledge, and active participation. Grounded in love, respect, and stewardship principles, we can positively impact our nation and be a shining example of Christ's love in a politically-charged world.

Again, as we navigate the election season, may we remember:

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Let's let Romans 12:10 guide our actions and interactions.

Which of these “S-I-S-T-E-R-H-O-O-D” suggestions could you prepare to participate in during the upcoming election season? Can you think of a special sister in Christ who might join you to make a difference in your community?

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating book nerd and aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director of Publishing at Planting Roots, a ministry for military women and wives. You can connect with Morgan on all major social media channels using her handle: morgandfarr.

Upgrade Your Ministry: Continue Learning

Morgan Farr is a wise and practical teacher, distilling the truth of God's Word and applying it to everyday living. In this Ministry UPGRADE, she encourages us to keep on learning, for our benefit but also for the sake of better ministry.

"Learning shouldn’t end in a classroom," Morgan says. "It should be a forever part of the Christian woman’s life."

I (Dawn) agree with Morgan. We should always be lifelong learners, and nowhere is this more important than in our walk with God and ministry for Him.

Morgan continues . . .

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to let the pursuit of knowledge take a back seat. However, for Christian women, the call to learning should be a continual and integral part of our lives.

Our commitment to growing in wisdom, knowledge, and faith should stay in the forefront of our minds.

Let’s explore why every Christian woman should continue learning and what she should do with that knowledge. 

1. Get Wisdom

Even though history has not always been kind to women’s education, we see in scripture that learning and growing is a crucial part of life.

Proverbs 4:7 states,

"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding."

This verse reminds us that wisdom and understanding are precious treasures worth pursuing at any cost. This means that wisdom and understanding are not one-time acquisitions but ongoing pursuits.

Learning isn't just about acquiring academic knowledge; it's also about deepening our spiritual understanding.

Ephesians 4:23-24 urges us to:

"be made new in the attitude of your minds"

and to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, and learning plays a pivotal role in our development as followers of Christ.

Consider joining a Bible study group, attending seminars, or dedicating time to daily reading and reflection. 

2. Give to Others

Learning isn't just for personal enrichment; it's also a means to serve others effectively.

Proverbs 31:26 (NIV) describes a woman who

"speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

When we continually upgrade our knowledge and wisdom, we become valuable sources of guidance and support for our families, friends, and communities.

God has given us unique talents and gifts, and we can use these gifts to bless others.

By investing in our growth, we can better equip ourselves to serve those around us.

This might look like using your skills as a bookkeeper to help a college student build a budget, or using your wisdom as a grandmother to minister in a children’s church. God gave you unique skills and experiences. Use them to give knowledge to others.

Let me share a real-life example.   

A YouTube star, Rob Kenney, created the channel “Dad, How Do I?” where he took his real-life experience and started making videos to help people walk through things they may not have learned from their parents.

I accidentally stumbled across his videos two years ago when I was trying to figure out how to replace a toilet seat. I was struggling and super frustrated, so I googled, “How do I replace a toilet seat?”

His video gave me the help I needed.

Now, that may not seem like a big deal, but when you realize that I had four kids ages six and under and my soldier husband was away—let me just say that there were a lot of tears when I finally fixed this silly thing that was creating so much frustration in my home.

Kenney's skills and willingness to share them helped me and my family, even though we have never met! 

3. Grapple with Relevance 

It is easy to feel irrelevant after hitting age twenty-nine. But that doesn’t have to be the case.

Just because you don’t know the latest TikTok dance doesn’t mean that you don’t have knowledge to share.

Find what you are good at and let your church or community leadership know you want to give in this area.

I guarantee you there is a place where you are needed!

For example, being able to sew my husband’s name tape and patches on his Army uniform has saved us a fair amount of money during his military career.

• I could ask my chapel about putting up a flyer letting other military wives know I have this skill.
• I can either offer it to them as a free/low-cost service, or I can teach them how to do it themselves.

We are told in Titus chapter two how older people should mentor younger people, yet this doesn’t happen often in church.

I see a divide between the older generations and the ones coming behind them because we don’t know how to communicate our willingness to learn and teach.

As Christian women, our commitment to learning should be an ongoing journey guided by the Word of God. Through this, we enrich our lives and fulfill God's purpose for us, becoming the women He designed us to be.

So, upgrade your commitment to learning today and let it be a continual part of your life for God's glory

What skill can you share with your community? 

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating, book nerd, aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director fo Publishing at Planting Roots, a minitry for military women and wives. You can connect with Morgan on all major social media channels using her handle: morgandfarr.

Graphic adapted, courtesy of Pexels at Pixabay.

Upgrade Your Bible Study

Morgan Farr has a unique way of crystalizing concepts for greater effectiveness, and she uses it well in her teaching. In this Bible Study UPGRADE, she encourages a three-step approach to upgrading our time in God's Word."There are more than 80,100,000 search results on Google when you type in 'Bible study,'" Morgan says. "Knowing how to move from a basic outline of the Bible into a true study can be intimidating!"

I (Dawn) remember when I first tried in-depth Bible study. "This is too hard!" I thought. But someone encouraged me with some practical steps—just like Morgan is encouraging us in this post.

Morgan continues . . .

Engaging in Bible study is essential for Christians to pursue spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of God's Word. While traditional study methods such as reading and reflection are valuable, an often-overlooked yet powerful tool can take our study to new heights: asking questions.

Question everything.

When the Bible mentions a unit of money or measurement, do you know what it means? If not, look it up!

Matthew 18:1-4 (ESV) says,

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, 'Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?'

And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them

and said, 'Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children [emphasis mine], you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'"

Do you know what kids do more than just about anything else? They ask a TON of questions.

And we should too!

By harnessing the transformative potential of questions, we can unlock profound insights, deepen our faith, and develop a more personal and vibrant relationship with our Creator.

The way that we do this is by remembering to A.S.K.

1. ANALYZE what you take in.

As Christians, we are called to be discerning in our spiritual journeys. When studying the Bible, we must analyze what we take in.

By asking questions about the sources we rely on, the interpretations we encounter, and the teachings we absorb, we can ensure that we are rooted in sound doctrine and biblical truth.

Questioning the information's accuracy, context, and reliability, guards us against falsehoods. It cultivates a foundation built on the rock of God's Word rather than hearsay or, worse, false teachings.

We can also better understand any biases that teachers, authors, or even we ourselves might.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.

2. STUDY the text for yourself.

While listening to sermons and participating in group discussions are valuable aspects of our spiritual growth, personal engagement with the Bible is crucial.

By studying the text for ourselves, we enter into a direct encounter with God's Word.

Asking questions helps us explore the context, historical background, and original intent behind the Scriptures. It allows us to discover the nuances and richness of the text, enabling a deeper understanding and personal application.

As we wrestle with the text through questioning, we build a solid foundation of knowledge, conviction, and faith to withstand the world's challenges.

3. KNIT it together with prayer.

Prayer is an essential component of any Christian's spiritual journey, and it also plays a vital role in Bible study.

As we ask questions, we must also cultivate a prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit.

By inviting God into our study through prayer, we acknowledge His authority as the ultimate teacher and seek His guidance.

Prayer knits together our studies, teachings, and the resources we use.

By integrating the practices of analyzing what we take in, studying the text for ourselves, and knitting our study together with prayer, we can significantly upgrade our Bible study experience.

Questions catalyze discernment, personal relationship with Christ, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Let us embrace the power of questioning as we engage with God's Word, allowing it to transform our lives, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to our loving Creator.

Which of the parts of "A.S.K." is missing from your Bible study? How might incorporating that missing piece enhance your current study?

If you are already analyzing, studying, and praying in your Bible study, consider sharing the A.S.K. concept with someone who is struggling.

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating book nerd and aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director of Publishing at Planting Roots, the Graphic Designer for Mission:Milspouse, and is heavily involved in her local PWOC and military chapel.

Graphic adapted, courtesy of Kelly Sikkema at Unsplash.

Upgrade Your Patriotism — Do Your P.A.R.T.

Morgan Farr is committed to biblical truth, and it touches every part of her life, even how she lives as a citizen of the United States. In this enlightening July 4th UPGRADE, she describes the difference between patriotism and nationalism, and encourages every American Christian to do their part as a citizen.

“Recently, during a conversation about serving our nation, my eight-year-old asked, ‘Where is America in the Bible?’” Morgan says.

“This question spurred a conversation about patriotism, nationalism, and our citizenship as Christians.”

I (Dawn) don't think enough Americans understand the difference between patriotism and nationalism, so I'm glad Morgan addressed this.

Morgan continues . . .

My husband is a soldier in the United States Army. This value of service matters to my family, because serving others is foundational as we look at how to imitate Christ. In wanting our children to learn the importance of service, we volunteer as part of our homeschool curriculum.

After my eight-year-old asked how America fits into the timeline of the Bible, I checked a quick sketch of the world timeline.

I realized how easy it is to assume that patriotism is a Christian principle today. I want to share how to upgrade your patriotism by doing your P.A.R.T.

First, a couple of definitions.

“Patriotism” Includes Pride of Country. 

Mark Twain said, “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and your government when it deserves it.”

Patriots faithfully serve their community to the benefit of everyone within its borders. Pride in your community and the willingness to share it with others is a benchmark of true patriotism.

Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary describes patriotism as: “love for or devotion to one’s country.”

A deep emotional pride in your country's cultures, histories, and traditions causes this loyalty and devotion.

The goal of patriotism is pride in the nation which is shared and celebrated.

Patriotism does not come at the cost of one's conscience or to the detriment of another person.

Does patriotism differ from nationalism?

“Nationalism” is Exclusionary.

Many people use nationalism and patriotism interchangeably despite the fact that they have different definitions and outcomes.

Although we hear about nationalism a lot in the news, it isn’t a new concept. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines nationalism as “loyalty and devotion to a nation, especially: a sense of national consciousness, exalting one nation above all others, and placing primary emphasis on promoting its culture and interests as opposed to those of other nations or supranational groups.”

Nationalism is seen throughout history in things like the concepts of Manifest Destiny, White Nationalism, Black Nationalism, American Exceptionalism, Ethnonationalism, and, of course, in recent news, Christian Nationalism.

The basic idea of nationalism is, “This is our table, and only certain people can sit here.”

So there is a big difference between patriotism and nationalism.

Charles de Gaulle said,

“Patriotism is when the love of your own people comes first; nationalism, when hate for people other than your own comes first.”

When we look at the history of nationalism, we can see that this idea often elevates the interests of one group of people above all others. It is a philosophy of grandeur and superiority for those in the right group or category.

But it creates a marginalized group of others who don't fit the standard.

Which Approach Reflects Christ?   

The marginalization of people different from us in favor of ourselves contradicts what we are told in Philippians 2: 3-4:

Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not [only] for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

As Christians, we must carefully examine what is espoused by any “ism” we align with.

Any ideology that leads to xenophobia, prejudice, or a superiority complex cannot reflect Christ.

Do Your P.A.R.T.

How can you upgrade your patriotism in a way that honors God? Consider these four points, each beginning with a letter in P.A.R.T.

1. Pray about It.

Step one in anything should be prayer. James 5:13 says, Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.

As you look at serving your community, volunteering, or voting, pray about all of it.

• Pray over every name, both on your side of the political spectrum and the other side.
• Pray for servicemembers and their families.
• Pray for leadership and the new recruits headed to boot camp.
• Pray for clarification of the values that God is calling you to uphold.

2. Ask about It.

Ask questions about everything. Asking questions is biblical. The Bible records more than 300 questions that Jesus asked in the first four books of the New Testament.

• Ask what political parties and politicians stand for.
• Ask about the values of the institutions you frequent.
• Ask about the beliefs and values of your pastors, elders, and deacons.
• Ask about things that you don’t know the answers to in theology, in the Bible, and in life. Then square those answers with the Bible.

3. Read about It.

Read your Bible. No, the United States isn’t mentioned. However, the Bible gives us direction for dealing with economics (Mark 12:17), government (Romans 13:1-7), and where our citizenship truly lies (Philippians 3:20).

• Read it in your preferred translation.
• Read it in a different translation.
• Read commentaries about the Bible.
• Read about the historical context of the time.
• Read to learn and grow, not just to check the box.

4. Teach about It.

As you wrestle with difficult questions or topics, tell others what you learn.

• Tell your friends in Bible study.
• Teach your children and your grandchildren.

The way we battle nationalism in favor of patriotism is by boldly speaking up for the truth of the gospel.

Paul, just after telling us to don the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), called himself an “ambassador” (v. 20). We are called ambassadors too (2 Corinthians 5:20), and we’re told to boldly declare the mysteries of the gospel.

An ambassador is “a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his or her own government.”

As children of God in the country where we live, we must do our part to represent Christ well. We do this by loving God above all else, and caring for our neighbor—every neighbor.

Which part of P.A.R.T. can you do today?

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating book nerd and aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director of Publishing at Planting Roots, the Graphic Designer for Mission: Milspouse, and is heavily involved in her local PWOC and military chapel. You can connect with Morgan on all major social media channels using her handle: morgandfarr.

Graphic adapted, courtesy of Stephanie McCabe at Unsplash.

Celebrate Well-Behaved Women Making History!

Morgan Farr is a woman of strength and wisdom. I always enjoy her unique insights. In this Biblical Womanhood UPGRADE during Women's History Month, she points to women in biblical history who have made a difference."Did you know," Morgan says, "that one of the most famous women’s empowerment quotes is actually a twisting of praise for Christian women?"

That question certainly piqued my (Dawn's) interest!

Morgan continues . . .

We are in the middle of the month of March, which means that if you hop onto any social media platform you will likely be bombarded with the celebration of women from across the globe. It's Women’s History Month.

Quotes from famous women, quotes about world-changing women, and quotes celebrating women are flying across social media at the moment.

But one in particular stands out to me:

“Well-behaved women seldom make history.”

We see this quote on pins, stickers, and water bottles. It is often used as a sort of rallying cry for women to behave badly, which is a bit ironic, given the source.

This quote actually came from an academic paper published by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. She was talking about the funeral sermons of Christian women.

I want to share how to upgrade your walk with well-behaved women who made history.

The idea behind Ulrich’s quote is that the women who live quiet lives tend to be overlooked by history, not that women should be poorly-behaved in order to make history.

At first, we want to react against this, but even in the Christian culture, it is the women who stepped out of line that are most often remembered.

In preparation for this article, I did a social media poll and asked my followers to name five women in the Bible.

These were the names I got and who they are:

• Eve ate the fruit from the forbidden tree (Genesis 3:6).
• Sarah laughs at the idea that she would get pregnant in her old age (Genesis 18:10-15).
• Rahab was a prostitute (Joshua 2:1).
• Bathesheba was married when she was taken by King David, who then murdered her husband (2 Samuel 11:2-17).
• Mary was pregnant out of wedlock (Luke 1:26-35).
• Ruth bucked tradition by following her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:8-22).
• Esther challenged a king (Esther 4:1-14; 5:1-8; 7:1-10; 8:1-16).

All of these women stand out in some way because of their stories.

Initially I was going to use the word salacious or maybe scandalous stories, but really, these women just had big stories. They are the major names that people think of with the term “women in the Bible.''

After that things start to get a little fuzzy and people really have to stretch for the names of other women.

Understanding Bible history and how women interact with it matters.

I find that knowing the Bible helps me in my everyday walk with Christ. Being a constant student of the Word is a crucial aspect of our faith. We are told in Ecclesiastes 1:9 that there is nothing new under the sun. If I am struggling with something in my life, looking to the Bible can help me see next steps and to make decisions.

Consider some examples of faithful women who followed God’s call for their lives, even with the threat of death.

These women do not often have entire Bible studies written about them unlike many of the women listed above, but their contributions to Christianity show that God’s plan is perfect, even if it doesn’t seem like it.

1. Shiphrah and Puah

These ladies were midwives who bravely stood up to Pharaoh when he ordered the murder of children (Exodus 1:15-21).

2. Deborah

She was a prophet and a judge who led Israel with honor and integrity when she stepped into a leadership vacuum (Judges 4:4-24; 5:1-31).

3. Priscilla

She was a tentmaker who traveled with her husband to share the gospel and invited Paul into her home (Acts 18:1-3, 18-19, 26).

4. Lydia

Lydia was a gentile woman. She was at a prayer gathering when Paul and Timothy came to preach, and she converted to Christianity. She led her family to Christ and used her wealth as a textile merchant to support the early church (Acts 16:12-15, 40).

5. Joanna

She followed Jesus after He healed her, she supported the apostles, stayed with Jesus when crowds turned against him, stayed during the crucifixion, and went to the tomb where she was one of the first to learn of Jesus’ resurrection (Luke 8:1-3; 23:49, 55-56; and 24:1-10).

What can we learn from these ladies?

• When a boss asks you to do something that goes against your scruples? Shiphrah and Puah.
• When you want to be involved in the church but you don’t know how? Take a note from Priscilla and open your home.
• Does your church support missions? Lydia would tell you to give generously.

Of course, none of this is to say that we as women cannot learn from men in the Bible, or that men can’t learn from women in the Bible. But when my four-year-old daughter asked why the stories in her children’s Bible are mostly about boys, I am now able to tell her of the women who have made a difference in our faith—women she can look up to, women she can follow as they followed God.

For all of the women we listed today, there are thousands, millions even, who faithfully lived out the call that God had for their lives without ever having their name recorded.

It can be easy in the drudgery of everyday life to wonder if your life has meaning, if you are making a difference.

Remember:

When you are loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength while loving your neighbor as yourself, you are working for the Lord.

Your daily walk with Him matters.

In this month of celebrating women’s history, we celebrate the well-behaved women who are making history today.

What woman in your history made a difference in your life?

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating, book nerd, aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director fo Publishing at Planting Roots, a minitry for military women and wives. You can connect with Morgan on all major social media channels using her handle: morgandfarr.

Graphic adapted, courtesy of Aaron Burden at Unsplash.