You are heard and you are validated

​“That’s not at all what I said.  That’s not what I think,” are the words you would have heard in a rather stern voice this morning as my husband and I exchanged words.  My tone escalated as I struggled to convince him that his interpretation of my words was inaccurate.  I felt entirely misunderstood and as though he was speaking for me in his attempt to explain the thoughts that were in MY head!  The truth of the matter is, we actually agreed.  It took us a few rounds to see that.  But in the battle of words, everything became convoluted and neither one of us was listening to the other.  I’m wondering if you know all too well what I mean?

It can feel like you are voiceless and unvalidated.  From speaking with other women, I have heard they struggle with this in places like the boardroom, around the office, casual settings or even at home.  I know that I have felt this even with my own family and friends when having conversations about life or children.  I’m not always allowed to have the mic for more than a few seconds without being interrupted or without assumptions being made about my views (that are more often than not, totally inaccurate).  The truth is, as a society, I believe we have become terrible listeners.  As a friend of mine put it, “we need to listen to understand, not to respond.”  Definitely something I know I need to work on.

On a day like today, when we celebrate International Women’s Day across the globe, I can’t help it but celebrate the One who sees all women.  The One who doesn’t discriminate against gender, race, political views, social class or appearance.  But the One who created us all, who designed us and loved us more than we’ll ever understand.  The One who redeems us, gifts us a new heart of purity and righteousness.  The One who forgives us our sins and forgets them as far as the East is from the West, Who gifted us His One and only son to shed His blood in our stead.  The One who intercedes for us and defends us that we may have eternal life.  The One who commands His angels concerning us to protect us and watch over us.  The One who has paid it all that we may live with Him in eternity and inherit His kingdom to be co-heirs with Christ and to be adopted as His daughters.  The One who provides our daily bread, who gives us the bread of life and quenches our thirst.  The One who while we were still sinners, died for us.  Our Good Shepherd who sees us, loves us and lavishes us with His extravagant love, just because.  

You are heard, you are seen, you are understood, you are validated and most importantly you are loved!  Like a sweet and precious gem that is treasured for life, you are treasured by God.  

Sweet, beautiful, darling, precious WOMAN today walk in absolute confidence and courage as you face the realities of this world.  Walk in hope and laughter at the days ahead, because He so loved you.

Heavenly Father, thank you that you love us.  Thank you that you see us and call us redeemed.  May we rejoice in who You are triune God.  Rescue us from our insecurities.  We pray for strength, endurance and deliverance on behalf of all the women around the globe from the injustices, poverty, persecution, pain, suffering, depression and anxiety that prevail in our lives.  Draw us closer to your son Jesus Christ that our cup may overflow with His presence.  In Your Son’s Name, Amen.

​In His love,
Damaris Avila