Women have journeyed through many expressions of femininity, from total submission to men to an overt rejection of classical gender roles and stereotypes. Christian women wrestle with their expressions of femininity even in modern times as feminism is commonly taught and accepted. After all, it was Paul who commanded women to learn in silence and subjection, forbidding them to teach or exert power over men (1 Tim 2:11-12). Yet the same Bible tells us of powerful women like Deborah, a female judge who commanded armies of men and secured the victory of Israel against Sisera (Judg 4). In a society that lauds female independence and challenges gender roles, Christian women must understand and reconcile their identities in Christ. Are men and women really that different? Has God given them different callings, skillsets, and limitations? The answer is "yes," but it shouldn't be a "yes" spoken with dejection. God's design is perfect, and he made women powerful in ways that men can never be powerful. Likewise, he made men powerful in ways that women can never be powerful. The God-given differences between men and women must be recognized and celebrated.

Ireland Gentry-Dillard is a Christian, wife, mother, writer, and professor—in that order. She lives in Illinois with her husband, daughter, and two spoiled cats.