Today we have the privilege of hearing words of wisdom from Eleanor Akaho who, in her own words is:
"A mental health practitioner, who is passionate about personal development, travelling and writing. One of my most important causes is educating the general public about mental health in order to help reduce stigma towards those with these difficulties.
I believe that my purpose in life is to be a light, which is coincidentally the meaning of my name! In keeping with this, I aim to reflect qualities of God such as warmth, hope and enlightenment. My journey so far has taught me how important it is to be my authentic self and embrace that person. I hope that my future works will encourage others (especially girls and young women) on their own personal quests for wisdom and sense of purpose."
With being said, read on as she explains why Ruth is her favourite woman of the Bible, how she ties in with Eleanor's testimony and what we, as modern Christian women, can learn from Ruth.
Who is your favourite woman of the Bible and why? What would you say that modern women can learn from her?
My favourite woman of the Bible is Ruth. I am inspired when I reflect on the humble, selfless love she demonstrated towards her mother-in-law, Naomi. All too often, I have looked around and observed the way in which human beings naturally seem to love others for what they can get in return. However, Ruth serves as an icon of inspiration for me due to the impeccable loyalty and endless, sacrificial love that she poured out, regardless of the response she received from Naomi. This is a love I have spent my life aspiring to, even though I repeatedly fall short.
My respect for Ruth is further compounded by her putting aside her own personal pain to support others through theirs– this is something that I am having to do more and more, both personally and professionally. Finally, Ruth was extremely brave, remarkably patient and unfailingly diligent. It takes a lot to leave home and build a new life in an unfamiliar place. It also takes a lot to work relentlessly towards something and to have the character to wait for the day when you can finally reap the rewards. These are experiences that I have encountered in recent years and they add to my sense of identifying most strongly with Ruth as a paradoxically humble yet bold woman of the Bible.
Related: An Interview with Angie Webb on Naomi
Please finish the sentence: I am a Christian woman who is...
I am a Christian woman who is fallible
Please finish the sentence: I am a Christian woman who is not…
I am a Christian woman who is not ”religious”.
Any final words of encouragement?
“Stand in your truth.” Be you and be beautiful … even if it leaves you vulnerable; even if it causes you to appear foolish. If I have learnt anything this year, it is that what others may perceive as weakness or foolishness may sometimes be what you experience as your greatest freedom and the ultimate peace.