By Samantha Tyan
Sometimes in a small church, it’s easy to look at what we don’t have — a big budget, lots of volunteers, updated buildings, a long list of programs. But God often does His most beautiful work through small and faithful beginnings. Women’s ministry is one of those places where His hand can be clearly seen.
When I think about women’s ministry, I think of the example of the woman in Proverbs 31. I'm sure you do too. She isn’t celebrated because of wealth, fame, or position. She’s honored because she “fears the Lord” (v. 30). Her quiet strength and faith influence everyone around her. That’s the heart of women’s ministry — women who love Jesus and let that love overflow to others.
Throughout Scripture, we see God using women in powerful ways. Lydia, in Acts 16, opened her home and became one of the first believers in her city. Priscilla helped teach and disciple others (Acts 18:24–26). Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet (Luke 10:38–42). These were ordinary women with willing hearts, and God used them mightily.
And then there’s the perfect model in Titus 2:3–5 — older women teaching and encouraging younger women in faith, love, and everyday life. That’s not just a good idea; it’s God’s design for women’s ministry. Who will continue on what the generations before have started if we aren't teaching and building each other up?
A small church can be a gift. It may not have the numbers of a big congregation, but it often has what big groups struggle to build — closeness. In a small church, we can know one another’s names, families, stories, and burdens. We can look each other in the eye, pray together, and walk through life side by side.
Women’s ministry flourishes in this kind of environment. Whether it’s gathering around a kitchen table with open Bibles, praying for a sister who’s struggling, or bringing a meal to someone in need, these simple acts of love have a powerful impact.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Encouragement is one of the greatest gifts we can give one another. And in small churches, it’s something we can and should offer daily.
Women’s ministry doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. Sometimes the most impactful moments are the quiet ones.
- Study. When we open Scripture together, our faith grows deeper (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
- Pray. Whether in prayer groups or just one-on-one, we need to lift one another up and bring our needs before the Lord (James 5:16).
- Teach. When older women share their faith journeys with younger women, it creates a legacy that lasts.
- Serve.Whether it’s visiting someone sick, supporting a family, or reaching out in love, we reflect Jesus when we serve (Matthew 25:35–40).
- Fellowship. We need to spend time building those bonds and figuring out each other's strengths. Genuinely care about your sisters.
These are small steps, but they build a strong spiritual foundation.
Yes, there are often challenges. Sometimes there aren’t enough volunteers. Sometimes it feels like the same few people are doing everything. But God’s Word reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). We don’t have to do it all. When we lean on Him, He multiplies our efforts. We are never alone in this.
When women come together in faith, lives change. Jesus Himself showed honor and value to women. He revealed Himself to the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). He affirmed Mary for sitting at His feet. And He appeared first to women after His resurrection (Matthew 28:1–10). He sees us. He calls us. He uses us.
A small women’s ministry can have a big Kingdom impact. We have to keep our eyes and hearts on HIM and not get caught up in the worldly parts. We may not always see the fruit immediately, but God is at work through every prayer whispered, every hand held, every word of encouragement spoken.
Prayer--Lord, thank You for the women You’ve placed in our church. Thank You for calling us to love one another, to encourage, to teach, and to serve. Remind us that nothing is too small when it’s done for You. Use our lives, our voices, our hands and our hearts to build up Your church. In Your son's name, Amen.
Samantha Tyan is a wife and mom of 3 boys from Western Nebraska who loves to serve and use her talents to glorify the Lord.