In the Bible there is a story of a woman who is not named, but is known simply as a great woman. The story goes something like this: Elisha was a prophet of the Lord. Every time he visited the city Shunem, he would pass by the home of a great woman who would offer him bread. One day this great woman said to her husband. "Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually" (2 Kings 4:9)
Right away we learn two things about this woman. First- she knew that Elisha was a holy man. Second- he came to her house continually. So, if we want to be known as a great woman, what must we do? Recognize the prophet today as a holy man and invite him into our house continually. Now, most likely the prophet will not visit your home. But when we listen to general conference and read the Ensign and New Era , he is visiting our home.
The story goes on to tell how she made a place for Elisha to stay in her home and she served him This woman was happy to serve without a reward. I find it fitting that the identity of the woman who performed quiet acts of kindness remains a secret today. We know her story, but we are never told her name. She is known simply as "a great woman."
How can we be considered "great women" today? In 3 Nephi 12:16 we read"Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they man see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Often the greatest acts of service you will perform will go noticed by the world. Sometimes you may even serve someone in a way that leaves them wondering who you are. In those moments you will be remembered simply as a great woman, and I have learned that this is the best title you could ever hope to receive in this life. One of the greatest lessons in this scripture story is for us to realize that the woman did the best she could with what she already had. She gave what she could, We can do the same thing. A great woman is someone who recognizes the need of another- whatever that need may be- and does something about it. Perhaps someone is having a bad day, and all they need is someone who is willing to listen. Saying hi to someone in the hall or at the grocery store are ways to serve silently. Sometimes the greatest service comes from someone who is simply willing to be a true friend- even to those they do not know.
Right away we learn two things about this woman. First- she knew that Elisha was a holy man. Second- he came to her house continually. So, if we want to be known as a great woman, what must we do? Recognize the prophet today as a holy man and invite him into our house continually. Now, most likely the prophet will not visit your home. But when we listen to general conference and read the Ensign and New Era , he is visiting our home.
The story goes on to tell how she made a place for Elisha to stay in her home and she served him This woman was happy to serve without a reward. I find it fitting that the identity of the woman who performed quiet acts of kindness remains a secret today. We know her story, but we are never told her name. She is known simply as "a great woman."
How can we be considered "great women" today? In 3 Nephi 12:16 we read"Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they man see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Often the greatest acts of service you will perform will go noticed by the world. Sometimes you may even serve someone in a way that leaves them wondering who you are. In those moments you will be remembered simply as a great woman, and I have learned that this is the best title you could ever hope to receive in this life. One of the greatest lessons in this scripture story is for us to realize that the woman did the best she could with what she already had. She gave what she could, We can do the same thing. A great woman is someone who recognizes the need of another- whatever that need may be- and does something about it. Perhaps someone is having a bad day, and all they need is someone who is willing to listen. Saying hi to someone in the hall or at the grocery store are ways to serve silently. Sometimes the greatest service comes from someone who is simply willing to be a true friend- even to those they do not know.
"There are hearts to gladden..... kind words to say....... gifts to be given....... deeds to be done."
-Thomas S. Monson-
"The path of a good woman is indeed strewn with flowers; but they rise behind her steps, not before them."
- John Ruskin-
-Thomas S. Monson-
"The path of a good woman is indeed strewn with flowers; but they rise behind her steps, not before them."
- John Ruskin-
Have you done any good in the world today?
What have you done today that will recognize you as a "great woman"?
What have you done today that will recognize you as a "great woman"?
