Over the years, I have discovered that God loves his children in ways we can’t fathom. His love and mercy are overwhelmingly awesome. After I became a parent to both the boy child and the girl child, I realised the importance of showing equal love to all my children irrespective of their gender; God is our heavenly father and parent, and he also loves us equally. Every Christian woman can become a woman after God’s heart as long as she stays in him and follows his will.

This article explores the scriptural foundations, characteristics, and challenges faced by women pursuing to be a woman after God’s heart. I share my personal experiences and how you can strengthen yourself on this rewarding journey.

Who is a woman after God’s heart?

A woman after God’s heart is a woman who embodies the qualities of spiritual excellence, faith, and devotion. Such a woman seeks to align her life with the will of God and reflects His character in her actions and relationships. A woman after God’s heart is a woman who is willing to submit herself totally to the will of God.

Although the phrase “woman after God’s heart” is not directly mentioned in the Bible, God called David “a man after my heart.” Let us look at the biblical examples of women after God’s heart.

After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.

‘”Acts.13:22

Biblical Examples of Women after God’s heart

In this section, we will study five women from the Bible to understand why they are often considered women after God’s heart:

1. Ruth

Ruth’s story is found in the Book of Ruth. After the death of her husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, she could have returned to her homeland in Moab, but she chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi. She is famous for the declaration, “Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), revealing her deep faith and loyalty.

Ruth’s life is a testament to unwavering commitment, trust in God’s plan, and the importance of family and community. Her mother-in-law, Naomi, is also praiseworthy in this story. She loved and cared for Ruth like a daughter; this was evident when she helped Ruth secure a marriage that placed her in the genealogy of Christ.

2. Esther

Esther’s is one of courage and faith. She was a Hebrew girl who became the queen of Persia. While some women may become more interested in keeping their position without caring for others, Esther risked her life by approaching the king to thwart a plot to exterminate the Jewish people. She demonstrated incredible bravery, selflessness, and reliance on God’s guidance.

Her actions exemplify how a person can make a difference when they trust in God’s providence and stand up for what is right.

3. Mary, the mother of Jesus

 Mary’s story is central to the New Testament as she was chosen to be the mother of Jesus. Her response to the angel Gabriel, “Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38), showcases her humility and submission to God’s will. She could have rejected the words of the angel out of fear of what Joseph would think of her or society.

Mary’s devotion, nurturing of Jesus and her presence at significant moments in His life highlight her role in God’s plan for salvation.

4. Hannah (1 Samuel 1-2)

In the First Book of Samuel, Hannah struggled with infertility but remained strong in her faith. Her sincere prayer for a child and her vow to dedicate her son, Samuel, to God’s service demonstrates her deep trust in God and her commitment to keeping her promises.

Hannah did not delay in keeping her promise by bringing the boy Eli. Her story highlights the vital role of prayer, persistence, and fulfilling one’s commitments to God.

5. Lydia

 Lydia’s account in Acts 16 unfolds a successful businesswoman in Philippi who was converted to Christianity through the preaching of Paul. Her hospitality in opening her home to Paul and Silas shows her generosity and faith. Lydia’s story is an example that shows that anyone, regardless of their background, can find faith and serve God by welcoming others into their lives.

6. Mary of Bethany (Luke 10:38-42)

Mary of Bethany displayed a heart of worship and devotion as she sat at the feet of Jesus, listening to His teachings. Her example illustrates the significance of prioritising spiritual growth and intimacy with God. Jesus used her as an example for her sister, showing that God wants us to spend time with him always.

7. The Woman at the Well (John 4:4-30)

The encounter between Jesus and the woman at the well reveals a woman who, despite her past mistakes, recognised her need for the living water of Christ. Her openness, humility, and willingness to learn demonstrate qualities of a transformed heart.

Characteristics of a Woman after God’s Heart

• A Heart of Worship and Devotion

Worship and devotion unto God are two of the qualities of a woman after God’s heart. A woman after God’s heart prioritises personal and communal worship. She regularly engages in prayer and meditates on the Scriptures. She regularly seeks moments of spiritual intimacy with God.

• Deep Compassion and Empathy

She possesses empathy and compassion for others, mirroring the love of Christ. She is quick to extend kindness and help to those in need. A woman after God’s heart would always want to show others the compassion and the love of Christ.

• Perseverance in Faith

Challenges come for every believer. In the face of challenges and setbacks, she remains unwavering in her faith, trusting that God’s plan is perfect, even when circumstances seem difficult. This is seen in the life of Sarah, who was looking up to God for a child. She doubted God at some point, and she was unsure because she was tired of waiting.

She was able to set her doubt and fear aside quickly, and she received the strength to carry her child in her womb. She trusted God and gave birth to the promised child, Isaac.

• Humility and Servant’s Heart

Humility is a hallmark of her character. She is willing to serve others and prioritise their needs over her own. She considers herself a servant of God for the growth of the kingdom of God. She serves others because she believes she’s serving God through them.

• Seeking God’s Will in All Things

A woman after God’s heart seeks God’s will in all things. She constantly seeks God’s guidance in her decisions and actions, acknowledging His sovereignty and trusting His plan for her life.

• Salvation and hearing God

A true woman after God’s heart will be able to hear God, and she will have accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal saviour. It is almost impossible to hear God and have a personal relationship with him if we are not saved. Salvation is very important.

Overcoming Challenges and Struggles of becoming a woman after God’s heart

Becoming a woman after God’s heart comes with a lot of challenges and struggles. This is generally due to the restrictions placed on women in different cultures and various parts of the world.

• The Struggle for Balance

Balancing various roles and responsibilities can be challenging. When a girl child is born into a family, there are various responsibilities placed on her by the family; she keeps trying to fit in and fulfil those responsibilities. When she gets married, she has more responsibilities. If she isn’t careful, she may become burdened.

A woman after God’s heart navigates this by seeking wisdom from scripture and seeking support from her faith community. Seeking wisdom from the scripture and praying over issues before I make decisions have been beneficial for me.

• Navigating Cultural and Societal Pressures

Societal and cultural pressures may sometimes conflict with a woman’s faith values. There are many cultural practices in this part of the world that generally contradict the Christian faith. There are families where women have to adhere to some strict rules in different circumstances. A woman after God’s heart relies on her strong faith and conviction to stand firm in the face of such challenges.

This is why women need to hear God themselves. If you are able to hear God, you will make decisions based on the leading of the Holy Spirit and not due to emotions or societal pressures.

• Dealing with Doubt and Self-Criticism

Many women face doubt and criticism. A lot of women are unable to live according to God’s plan for them due to doubt and fear of what others will say. Some women have low self-esteem and low body image, and they have allowed fear to rule their lives. Doubt and self-criticism can be hurdles on the journey of faith. She addresses these by turning to scripture and prayer for assurance and guidance.

The Bible has said a lot of positive things about you; therefore, the negatives shouldn’t matter. God has said you are beautifully made, you are above and never beneath, you are bought with the precious blood of Jesus, you are as bold as a lion and many more wonderful things. Allow yourself to live and let the world benefit from your awesomeness.

• Addressing Past Mistakes and Forgiving Oneself

Every person has a past, and we sometimes find ourselves haunted by our past. I know how difficult it is to move on and find a new life, but it isn’t impossible. A woman after God’s heart knows the importance of forgiveness and redemption. She understands that God’s grace extends to all and forgives herself as she forgives others.

It is important to accept the forgiveness of God and believe that God has forgiven you and he doesn’t see your sin anymore.

How to Become a Woman after God’s Heart

We need strength and determination to become a woman after God’s heart. I dare say that this is a journey that takes time, endurance and patience. It requires many things, and here are some of them;

• Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you.

God loves everyone in the world, and he wants us to come to him to accept salvation. When you accept the Lord Jesus into your life, he is able to guide you on your journey with the help of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is a sure guide, and he is the best friend you need. If you want to accept Jesus, kindly say this prayer with me: “Dear Jesus, I accept you into my life as my Lord and Saviour. Forgive all my sins, accept me into your kingdom and guide me on the path of life. Help me to serve you and abide in you in Jesus’ name; Amen.”

Congratulations on taking this bold step of faith. You can please contact us via email ([email protected]) or fill out the contact form here to let us know you took this decision, and I’ll be your guide on this journey.

• Have a supportive community of women after God’s heart

Being part of a faith community provides a support system that encourages growth. Be actively involved with your church and fellow believers, sharing experiences and learning together.

• Daily Scripture Study and Prayer

It is important to have a regular quiet time with God. Having a regular fellowship with God helps our relationship with God to flourish. Create time to pray, meditate on the word and commune with God.

• Gratitude and Acts of Service

Practising gratitude and acts of service to others deepens our compassion and reinforces our commitment to serving God. Gratitude helps us appreciate God for the little things that God has done for us; God loves a grateful heart.

• Intentional Acts of Kindness and Charity

Purposefully engaging in acts of kindness and charity strengthens us. Anytime I am able to go to charity with others from my church, I become a better person with a different disposition to the needy. I become more compassionate.

Things to Note

While trying to become a woman after God’s heart, it is important to note some salient points.

• Every Woman’s Journey is Different. Each woman’s journey is unique, and we do not have to compare our path with others. We are to appreciate God and understand that he has different plans and intentions for his children.

Comparing ourselves can lead to discouragement, guilt and doubt. We should refrain from getting trapped in the comparison mentality and focus on our growth and progress.

• Celebrate your growth and progress. Whenever you make progress, celebrate yourself and value yourself for taking a bold step. The more you celebrate yourself, the more confident you are.

• Serving others does not mean draining and harming yourself. Many women want to always serve without filling themselves. Serve others with guidance from the Holy Spirit; the Holy Spirit will never allow you to burn out.

Finally, a woman after God’s heart is a woman who seeks spiritual excellence, reflects God’s love, and prioritises her relationship with the Creator. Although the journey may be difficult and sometimes we face challenges, we believe God has got us, and he is able to help us succeed in our journey.

If you’ll love to learn more about being a woman after God’s own heart, I recommend this book “A woman after God’s own heart” by Elizabeth George. I read it years ago and it blessed me.

Featured Image by Kriss L