Women Working Boldly: A Study of Lydia in Acts 16Sample

Lydia’s Work

After Lydia’s whole family was baptized, she persuaded Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke to come to her home as guests. The Greek lexicons define the word persuade as “to compel by employing force.”  Of course, she did. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home” (Acts 16:15 NLT). Luke says she urged them repeatedly until they all agreed. Some Bible versions say Lydia “prevailed” upon them. She heard first-hand the life-changing news her sins were forgiven, and she watched her whole family adopt the truths of Christ and profess faith through the outward expression of baptism. 

It’s not hard to envision Lydia, a bold woman before Christ, employing her God-given boldness after placing her trust in Christ in order to compel the evangelists to stay at her home. 

Like you, Lydia: 

• Overcame gender stereotyping in her culture 
• Balanced work and life  
• Managed a large household and business 
• Oversaw the trade of her goods in the marketplace 
• Used all of her influence as Christ’s ambassador

Every part of Lydia’s work story coalesced with her faith story. God has the same divine purpose in the way he created and wired you, and the way he strategically placed you in the job you currently work in. 

Prayer:

Father, employ my God-given strengths and talents to bring you glory and to serve everyone in my orbit. Help me to use my excellent work and my influence at work to point people to you. In Jesus’ mighty Name I pray. Amen.