Op-Ed: Yes, Women Are Called to Preach—We Go Because We’re Sent
I’ve had countless conversations with women preachers who’ve been approached, challenged, and even dismissed—told they were never meant to preach. I’ve sat in rooms where the presence of women in ministry was questioned, where our callings were reduced to cultural norms rather than spiritual assignments. But even in the midst of resistance, I thank God for the men who stand in truth—men who boldly affirm that when God calls a woman, the evidence will follow. They encourage us to stay the course, not for applause or validation, but because obedience to God must always come first.
It took time—and a whole lot of prayer—for me to stand confidently in my calling. There were moments when the noise of others saying ‘women shouldn’t preach’ made me shrink back, even though deep down I knew God had chosen me. But as I pressed into His presence, the Lord reminded me: none of those voices were there when He called me. They didn’t witness the encounter. They didn’t hear His instruction. And they won’t be the ones standing with me on the day I give account. I will answer to God alone—and obedience to Him must outweigh the opinions of others.
It is my deep desire to please God that has kept me grounded and unwavering. This same God—who has protected my family, who speaks to me, who warns and prepares me for what’s ahead, just as He does all His people—is the One who has proven Himself faithful time and time again. He alone is the One I take instruction from. My obedience belongs to Him, not to the shifting opinions of others.
We’re not preaching for applause, recognition, or position. We’re preaching because God has called us—and when He calls, we answer.
There is a stirring happening in the hearts of women across the globe. Women who have prayed, fasted, waited, and leaned in closely for God’s voice—are now stepping forward. Not in rebellion, but in obedience. They are not stepping out of order; they are walking in divine alignment.
Still, some will question them. Others will try to silence them. And sadly, many will misuse Scripture—often without context or full understanding—to suggest that women were never meant to teach or lead. They’ll point to Paul’s instruction for women to remain silent in church, while ignoring the cultural moment, the intended audience, and the broader heart of the gospel.
But that same Paul also acknowledged women who prophesied (1 Corinthians 11:5). Women who taught, led, and ministered beside him. Throughout Scripture, we see God using women in mighty ways—Deborah, a prophet and judge; Priscilla, a teacher of the Word; Phoebe, a trusted deacon; Esther, a deliverer of her people; Mary Magdalene, the first to proclaim the risen Christ. God has always used willing vessels—male and female—to fulfill His will.
Let’s be clear: this is not about overpowering men. This is about partnering in purpose. God designed us to work together—different gifts, but the same Spirit, the same mission. This is about completing the assignment God has placed on His daughters for such a time as this, for the harvest that’s coming.
If you’re feeling the call but wrestling with fear or doubt—know you’re not alone. Many of us have been there. Find community. Find covering. Seek out the sisters, mentors, and faith leaders who will affirm your calling and pray you through it. The journey is always lighter when we walk it together.
And remember, God’s calling looks different for each of us. Whether it’s preaching, teaching, worship, mentoring, or speaking truth in boardrooms or classrooms—your assignment is sacred and necessary.
At the end of the day, each of us will stand before God—alone. When He asks, “Why didn’t you do what I placed in your heart to do?”—“Because they told me I couldn’t” won’t be an answer He honors. Those who tried to discourage you won’t be there. But your obedience—or lack of it—will speak for itself.
So if you’re a woman who feels called to preach, teach, lead, or speak—know this: it’s not about seeking permission. It’s about surrendering to purpose. If God placed His Word in your belly, trust Him to release it through you. You don’t have to be loud to be heard. You just have to be faithful.
This is the season for God’s daughters to rise—not in defiance, but in devotion. To speak not from pride, but from His presence. To lead not for platform, but because Heaven said, “Go.”
And when Heaven sends you, you don’t need validation. You just need to obey.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news…”
— Isaiah 61:1 (NIV)
A Prayer for the Called Woman
May every woman reading this feel the courage to obey God above all else. May her heart be filled with clarity, her voice with grace, and her steps with bold obedience. May she rise, not in fear, but in faith—knowing that when God sends her, He walks with her. Amen.
Reflect and Respond
- Has God called you to something others don’t understand?
- Are you shrinking back because of people’s opinions or fear?
- What would your answer be if God asked you today, “Why didn’t you obey Me?”
- What steps can you take today to lean into God’s calling more fully?
You are not alone. You are not disqualified. You are not confused. You are called—and you are covered.
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