ACSI Research Fellow Program

As we approach Women’s History Month, we reflect on the countless women who have shaped the United States through their faith, wisdom, and diligence. The Proverbs 31 woman is a model of virtue, embodying strength, intelligence, and compassion—qualities seen in women throughout American history who have overcome challenges to serve their families, communities, and God’s kingdom. 

Women of faith have been the backbone of communities, ensuring that biblical values and godly wisdom are passed down through generations. The Proverbs 31 woman is industrious, using her hands and mind to create opportunities and provide for those in her care. From the earliest days of our nation, women have pioneered new fields and led with courage. Abigail Adams, with wisdom and foresight, urged her husband to "remember the ladies" in the formation of America’s laws. Harriet Tubman, with unwavering trust in the Lord, guided enslaved people to freedom, embodying the boldness and justice of a woman who fears the Lord. 

Faithful women have overcome barriers of race and economic hardship with resilience, much like the Proverbs 31 woman, who "extends her hands to the needy." Sojourner Truth, a former enslaved woman, boldly proclaimed biblical truth in her fight for justice. Mary McLeod Bethune, seeing the need for education, founded a school for African American girls, ensuring knowledge and faith were accessible to future generations. These women, like Esther, stepped forward with faith, using their voices to bring hope and change. 

Women from diverse backgrounds have also been instrumental in advancing missions and spreading the gospel across cultural divides. Lottie Moon, a Southern Baptist missionary to China, dedicated her life to sharing Christ’s message despite opposition and hardships. Her devotion reminds us of the biblical call in Matthew 28:19 to go and make disciples of all nations. 

The Proverbs 31 woman is wise and instructs with kindness, just as Christian women throughout history have been at the forefront of education. Charlotte Mason, a Christian educator, emphasized holistic learning that nurtured both mind and spirit. Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, served tirelessly in times of crisis, demonstrating the biblical call to love and serve others. These women followed in the footsteps of Priscilla, who faithfully taught and supported the early church. 

Christian women have also made significant contributions to higher education, opening doors for others to access learning grounded in biblical principles. Mary Lyon, the founder of Mount Holyoke College, established one of the first institutions of higher education for women, ensuring that women received rigorous academic training while growing in their faith. 

Native American women have long played vital roles in shaping their communities, often serving as keepers of culture, faith, and resilience. Women such as Zitkála-Šá, a writer, composer, and advocate for Native rights, used her voice to preserve indigenous heritage while fighting for justice. Likewise, Wilma Mankiller, the first female chief of the Cherokee Nation, embodied Proverbs 31 leadership through her advocacy for education, healthcare, and economic empowerment among her people. 

Latina women have also left an indelible mark on U.S. history, balancing faith, cultural preservation, and leadership. Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a Mexican nun and scholar, championed education for women, embodying the Proverbs 31 woman’s pursuit of wisdom. Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers, fought for the rights of laborers while advocating for social justice with compassion and perseverance. These women, much like Ruth in the Bible, demonstrated faithfulness and strength in their commitment to justice and community upliftment. 

Through their gifts and talents, women have preserved cultural values that align with biblical principles. Hymn writer Fanny Crosby, despite blindness, penned over 8,000 hymns that continue to inspire believers today. Women missionaries carried the gospel to distant lands, fulfilling the Great Commission with devotion. Their faith reminds us of Romans 12:2—being transformed by the renewing of the mind, steadfast in their calling to spread God’s truth. 

Christian women have also influenced literature, art, and social reform. Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, used her literary talents to glorify God and challenge societal norms. Her poetry reflected deep Christian faith and intellectual brilliance, proving that education and faith could coexist in transformative ways. Today, many women in the creative arts continue to use their talents to glorify God and advocate for justice and righteousness. 

Even in economic hardship, women have demonstrated diligence and faith, mirroring the Proverbs 31 woman who “watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.” During the Great Depression, mothers found innovative ways to sustain their families, trusting in God’s provision. Businesswomen like Madam C.J. Walker, who built a successful enterprise from humble beginnings, illustrated the power of perseverance and faith in overcoming financial struggles. 

Christian women in business today continue this legacy by creating enterprises that serve both economic and spiritual needs. From running Christian bookstores to leading mission-driven companies, they demonstrate biblical stewardship and ethical leadership, honoring Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." 

Women’s History Month is a time to honor the faith-filled legacy of women who have shaped our nation through strength, wisdom, and service. As we reflect on their contributions, we are reminded of the words in Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Women throughout history have answered God’s call to lead, serve, and impact the world for His glory.