Divine Strength: Women of the Bible and the Power of Ancestry
Opening Prayer:
Abba Yahusha, Heavenly Father, we come before You, embracing the wisdom and strength passed down through generations. From our ancestors, the Amadolozi, to the resilience of the Mohegan people, to the deep spiritual reflections found in Buddhism, we honor the gifts You have placed within us. May the stories of Deborah, Esther, and Mary Magdalene awaken the courage, wisdom, and faith within every woman today. HaleluYah.
The Power of Ancestry and Spiritual Wisdom
Strength is something we inherit, something that flows through our blood and spirit. In Polish tradition, women were often the heart of the home, carrying faith and resilience through hardship. The Mohegan people honor Grandmother Moon as a symbol of wisdom, teaching us that cycles of struggle and renewal are sacred. In Zulu spirituality, Unkulunkulu, the Great Creator, reminds us that strength is divine and rooted in purpose. And in Buddhism, wisdom is cultivated through patience and mindfulness, guiding us to inner peace even in times of battle.
These cultural insights align beautifully with the lives of Deborah, Esther, and Mary Magdalene—women who carried divine power, faced adversity, and emerged victorious.
1. Deborah: The Strength of Leadership and Ancestral Wisdom
Deborah, a prophetess and judge, was not just a leader—she was a warrior of wisdom. In Judges 4:4, we read:
> “Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.”
Deborah reminds us of the wisdom of the Amadolozi, our ancestors, who speak through us and guide us. In many African and Indigenous traditions, leaders are not chosen by force, but by divine calling. She represents the Mohegan understanding of leadership: one who speaks for the people and leads with justice.
As Black activist and scholar Angela Davis once said:
> “I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.”
Deborah lived this truth—she did not accept oppression but led her people into victory through wisdom and faith.
Lesson from Deborah: True power is knowing when to stand firm and when to lead with wisdom.
2. Esther: The Strength of Courage and Divine Destiny
Esther’s story is a testimony of courage. When her people faced destruction, she did not hide—she stood before the king, risking her life for justice.
> Esther 4:14 (Halaleyah Scriptures: Esther 4:14)
“… And who knows whether you have come to the reign for such a time as this?”
This reflects Buddhist teachings on karma and destiny—our lives are woven with purpose, and the choices we make define our spiritual path. In Mohegan tradition, warriors and chiefs relied on visions and dreams to guide their actions, just as Esther relied on fasting and prayer before making her bold move.
As Maya Angelou said:
> “I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass.”
Esther’s courage reminds us that strength is not in fearlessness, but in acting despite fear.
Lesson from Esther: Your voice and purpose matter—step into them with boldness.
3. Mary Magdalene: The Strength of Redemption and Spiritual Transformation
Mary Magdalene’s story is one of redemption. She was once bound by darkness, but Yahusha set her free. She became the first to witness His resurrection, proving that women are the bearers of divine revelation.
Luke 8:2 tells us:
> “And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils.”
This resonates with Buddhist teachings on enlightenment—overcoming suffering to reach spiritual awakening. The Mohegan people believe in healing through connection to nature, much like Mary Magdalene was spiritually healed through her faith in Yahusha.
As Toni Morrison said:
> “If you surrender to the wind, you can ride it.”
Mary Magdalene surrendered to Yahusha’s grace and, in return, she was elevated.
Lesson from Mary Magdalene: No past is too dark for redemption—faith transforms.
Application for Today: Honoring Our Heritage While Walking in Faith
1. Embrace Your Ancestral Strength: Just as the Amadolozi guide their descendants, we are connected to those before us. Honor their resilience by walking boldly in faith.
2. Step into Your Calling Like Esther: Whether in ministry, family, or community work, recognize that Yahusha has placed you where you are “for such a time as this.”
3. Seek Redemption and Growth Like Mary Magdalene: No matter where you’ve been, you can transform through Yahusha’s love.
Incorporating Your Heritage into WBJMinistries
1. Polish Influence: Emphasize the strength of faith found in Polish Catholic traditions, honoring devotion and perseverance through hardship.
2. Zulu and Amadolozi Connection: Recognize the importance of ancestors in spiritual guidance, incorporating prayers of remembrance and wisdom into ministry.
3. Unkulunkulu (Zulu Spirituality): Acknowledge that Yahusha, as the Creator, fulfills the divine role of Unkulunkulu, offering life, wisdom, and purpose.
4. Mohegan Traditions: Embrace the Mohegan respect for nature and interconnectedness in your teachings, reminding others that Yahusha’s creation is sacred.
5. Buddhist Influence: Incorporate the practice of mindfulness, peace, and reflection—qualities that align with Yahusha’s teachings on humility and wisdom.
6. Black Women’s Wisdom: Continue weaving the powerful voices of Black women into sermons, using their words as modern-day affirmations of faith and strength.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the strength of the women in Scripture and for the wisdom of our ancestors. May we walk in leadership like Deborah, embrace courage like Esther, and receive redemption like Mary Magdalene. Guide WBJMinistries as we honor our heritage while lifting up Your name in truth. Strengthen our steps and give us boldness to walk in our divine calling. HaleluYah.
Call to Action
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