Be All You Can Be

As a kid, I loved the Army commercial that proclaimed “Be All You Can Be!” Something about that slogan resonated loudly with me, and as I grew up, I ran with it. I traveled the world doing worship ministry, earned my Master’s degree, got married, and became a mom. Then began some unfulfilling years. I subscribed to a myth that Christian women had to put aside other gifts and callings for the sake of their roles as wife and mom. I LOVE my primary roles, but have also realized that God created me with other abilities and callings to be used to further His kingdom and do good works. My life now consists of being wife, homeschooling mom, physical therapist, worship leader, and mentor while having other hobbies, interests, and ministry opportunities.

Walking in what the Creator designed for our lives brings blessing and joy, and that design is different for everyone. For example, I know an amazing single woman in full-time ministry who has a side business making floral arrangements that brings joy to many people. I know a stay-at-home mom who has a knack for sales and entrepreneurship that now has an extremely successful business helping people be healthier. My sweet friend, who is an attorney, mother, and wife, has a passion to help women coming out of sex trafficking. She regularly attends prayer meetings for these women; has traveled overseas to aid in the fight; and is very active in raising awareness and funds here at home.

These are real women leading where they are by being all they can be and showing the love of Jesus in all they do. But how do we live and lead effectively in every role and season of our lives while juggling all our daily responsibilities as women?

First, we must know our identity in Christ. Our identity should not be rooted in what we do but in who God is and says we are.  We cannot be effective in all our roles without first knowing who we are in Christ. This requires letting go of past failures and believing in the potential God placed inside of us by releasing fear, comparisons, and ideals. We have to trust and be confident in God and in ourselves, while digging deep into His Word and seeking His face. Our identity in Christ launches us to lead while providing us a safe place to land.

Second, we must remember our passion, purpose, and vision, and keep it in the forefront of our minds. We are all uniquely created with different interests and talents, and have various life experiences. Use these things to ignite or reignite your passion. Knowing your passion will reveal your purpose. Knowing your purpose will clarify your vision. Are you being a wise steward of the one life that God has given you?

Just like Esther did when she saved her people by going before the king uninvited, taking a brave step forward can bring about something powerful and life-changing. Your vision may be to open a business or non-profit, start a small group, go back to school, start a blog, invest in your marriage and family more, or climb up the corporate ladder. Whatever it is, know and write down your passion, purpose, and vision. Include practical action steps like budgeting, creating goals, listing priorities, scheduling and delegating tasks, and organizing a support system.

Third, we must be intentional with our influence. With every role comes the opportunity to lead by serving, encouraging, and pouring into people. Take the focus off yourself and put it on others. Jesus’ life is the ultimate example of servant leadership. Draw out the potential and purpose in those around you, and let them shine. Be a loud encourager and a gentle corrector when needed. Your influence may not be off a platform to thousands, but in daily life to a few. Go and confidently, passionately, and intentionally lead where you are by being all you were created to be!

Karen Harmon

Karen Harmon is a wife, homeschooling mother, and physical therapist. She is active serving in her church through worship, small groups, and media. You can connect with Karen on her website.

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