On March 8, the international community celebrates International Women’s Rights Day, a date under the auspices of UN Women that highlights both the progress and challenges in the fight for gender equality. However, beyond socio-political considerations, this day is also an opportunity for us—experts in relationships, marriage, and family counseling—to examine the fundamental role of women in the family and society while incorporating a biblical, evangelical, and theological perspective.
Far from being merely a recognition of women’s struggles, March 8 compels us to reflect on the true place that God has given to women, their impact on the home and community, and the responsibilities that fall upon everyone to grant them the dignity and honor they deserve.
I. Woman, a Being Created with a Divine Purpose
From the very first pages of Genesis, the Bible offers us a clear vision of the role and value of women. When God created Eve, He declared:
“It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18)
This divine statement demonstrates that women are essential companions to men—precious helpers, not inferior beings. In the original Hebrew, the word used for « helper » is « ezer, » which means a powerful support, often used to describe God Himself as our help in times of distress (Psalm 121:1-2).
Thus, far from being merely an appendix to man, a woman carries within her a spiritual, emotional, and intellectual strength capable of building a balanced and prosperous society.
In marriage and family life, she plays an irreplaceable role. Proverbs 31, which portrays the virtuous woman, highlights her intelligence, her ability to manage household resources, her commitment to work, and her influence in the community:
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” (Proverbs 31:26)
This passage shows that a woman is called to be much more than just a wife and mother; she is also a teacher, a leader, and a counselor within her surroundings.
II. The Role of Women in Marriage and Family: A Sacred Mission
1. A Partner, Not a Subordinate
Far from oppressive patriarchal notions that have often relegated women to secondary roles, God’s plan for marriage establishes a relationship of complementarity, not domination. The Apostle Paul states in Ephesians 5:25:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This call shows that marital love must be based on sacrifice, commitment, and mutual respect. If Christ gave His life for the Church, how much more should a husband value, honor, and protect his wife?
As a marriage counselor, I have observed that many conflicts in couples stem from a lack of recognition of the woman’s role. When a woman feels loved, heard, and valued, she becomes a source of peace and fulfillment for her home. Conversely, when she is disregarded or underestimated, it leads to frustrations that impact the relationship and, by extension, children and society.
2. A Mother and an Influential Educator
In Titus 2:3-5, Paul encourages women to be models of wisdom, teaching young girls to love their homes and uphold values of piety. A mother plays a fundamental role in passing down moral and spiritual values, and her influence extends far beyond the domestic sphere.
We cannot talk about International Women’s Day without acknowledging the immense educational responsibility of mothers. A godly mother raises balanced, responsible children who uphold human and spiritual values.
III. Women and Society: A Central Role to Reclaim
The fight for gender equality is not limited to political, economic, or social demands. It is also a spiritual and moral issue.
1. An Active Force in Society
Today, women are major players in all fields: politics, economy, education, health, and entrepreneurship. Yet, they continue to face glaring inequalities—wage discrimination, domestic violence, and limited access to decision-making positions.
However, in the Bible, God often elevated women to accomplish crucial missions. Think of Deborah, a judge and prophetess in Israel (Judges 4-5), Esther, who saved her people through courage, or Mary Magdalene, chosen by Jesus to be the first to announce His resurrection.
2. A Call for Respect and Justice
In Micah 6:8, God reminds us of the importance of practicing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him.
As a society, we must:
- Value women’s skills by offering them equal opportunities.
- Fight against violence against women, whether physical, moral, or economic.
- Encourage men to be allies in progress, promoting relationships based on love and mutual respect.
IV. A Commitment for the Future: Honoring Women According to God
1. In the Church
The Church must be a model in recognizing women’s roles. Since Jesus Himself gave an important place to women in His ministry (Luke 8:1-3), we must encourage their involvement in ministries, biblical education, and social work.
2. In Marriage
As a marriage counselor, I often remind couples that love is not about domination but mutual service. A man who honors his wife and recognizes her value builds a solid and harmonious marriage.
3. In Society
March 8 should not just be a day of celebration but a call to action. Governments, churches, and families must work together to build a world where women are honored, respected, and protected.
Conclusion: A Tribute to Women, A Mission for All
Ultimately, March 8 is much more than a commemorative event. It is a powerful reminder that women are God’s precious creation, endowed with intelligence, strength, and wisdom.
As an expert in relationships, marriage, and family counseling, I emphasize that women’s well-being is closely tied to the quality of relationships they maintain with their spouses, children, and society.
As believers, we have a spiritual and moral duty to defend their dignity, and as a society, a responsibility to provide them with the same opportunities as men.
May this day be a call for respect, love, and action so that every woman can flourish in her divine destiny and in her essential role within marriage, family, and society.
MY ADVICE:
- Love your wife as Christ loved the Church.
- Ephesians 5:25 – « Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her. »
- Encourage women’s independence and fulfillment.
- Proverbs 31:17 – « She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong. »
- Establish benevolent communication in marriage.
- Colossians 4:6 – « Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. »
- Educate children in the respect of gender equality.
- Proverbs 22:6 – « Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it. »
- Recognize and appreciate women’s efforts and contributions.
- Proverbs 31:31 – « Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. »
- Fight against violence against women.
- Micah 6:8 – « He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. »
