The Power of Womenنموونە

The Power of Being First

Have you ever felt the pressure of being the "first"? Maybe you’re the first in your family to pursue higher education, step into ministry, or break a cycle. That weight is heavy, especially when you feel like others are watching to see if you succeed or fail. I experienced this first-hand when I was asked to give a TED-talk-style talk. As a woman of color, I had hoped for an opportunity to share my speaking gift, but the waiting had been so long that I’d begun to accept it wouldn’t happen . . . until it did.

As excited as I was to speak publicly for the first time, the responsibility felt overwhelming. The weight of being the first to represent so many and the expectation that I would either open or close this door for others began to feel too heavy to bear. It wasn’t just about my own nerves or preparations; it felt like I was carrying the hopes of others who would come after me.

In moments like these, it's easy to forget that the weight isn’t ours to bear alone. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to bring our heavy burdens to Him, saying, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you . . . and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."

Jesus isn’t asking us to carry the weight of others' expectations or the burden of history’s demands. Instead, He offers His rest, His strength, and His grace. This invitation to rest isn't just for physical exhaustion but for the emotional and spiritual weariness we feel when we’re trying to break new ground.

When I found myself on stage, struggling to read my script from the teleprompter in the back of the room and fearing I might fail, I remembered God had opened the door for me. He didn’t ask me to carry the weight of being the first alone—He was walking with me every step of the way.

Being the first can feel like an overwhelming burden, but there is power in placing it in God’s hands. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light. He never expected us to pave a new path alone. He equips us. His grace sustains us. And His power emboldens us for the new ground to be gained for His kingdom. Keep trusting Him, for He’s already prepared the path ahead, and He’s already prepared you for such a time as this.

Prayer & Reflection

1. In what areas of your life do you feel the pressure of being the "first"?
2. What burdens are you carrying that Jesus is inviting you to release?
3. How does resting in God’s grace change the way you view your role in breaking new ground?

Written by Torrie Sorge