The Box Was Never God’s Design

You are called for more than they told you

It’s time to talk about the box.

You know the one that’s labeled “How a Godly Woman Should Be.”

Its walls are made from of other people’s expectations, its floor swept with tradition, and its lid slammed shut with words like “feminist,” “Jezebel,” or “out of order.” If you’ve ever felt trapped inside, you’re not alone. You love God. You honor His Word. But deep within your spirit, there’s a fire: to build, lead, speak, or create.

Now the whispers. “Is this rebellion? Am I abandoning my calling?” 

My dear sister, the box was never God’s design.

Let’s read Proverbs 31, which many recognize as the picture of “the ultimate godly woman.” Let’s study this passage: She’s not only a homemaker, she’s a shrewd businesswoman who “considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings, she plants a vineyard” (v. 16). The Proverbs 31 woman is a manufacturer who “makes linen garments and sells them” (v. 24). She’s also an advocate who “speaks with wisdom” and “opens her arms to the poor” (v. 20, 26). Her husband and children praise this godly woman publicly, celebrating her for exceeding expectations (v. 28–29).

Her secret? “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (v. 30). Not “a woman who stays in society’s lane for her.”

Throughout scripture, God assigned women in bold, diverse roles. Lydia (Acts 16) was a wealthy believer who was a businesswoman dealing in luxury purple cloth, funding the early Church and hosting apostles in her home. Deborah (Judges 4–5) was a prophetess, judge, and military commander who led the Israelites to victory. Priscilla (Acts 18) was a theology teacher who helped shape one of the early church’s greatest preachers. Mary Magdalene (John 20) was the first evangelist, commissioned by Jesus to announce His resurrection. 

Where does God say, “Only home, only quiet, only small”? 

Nowhere.

But the accusations are abundant: “You’re a feminist!” “A Jezebel!” “Out of order!” The lies! True advocacy is justice: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8). Remember, Jesus was called “crazy” too (Mark 3:21). And Jezebel? Her sin was manipulating power for idolatry and murder (1 Kings 21:25); not stewarding your gifts for God’s glory. Your desire to lead, create, or speak isn’t rebellion. Quite contrary. When God ignites the call, it’s obedience.

Perhaps you love home and feel you were called beyond it. Good news: You don’t have to choose. The Proverbs 31 woman managed both. So did Lydia. So can you. Your calling depends on obedience, not location; whether that’s home, office, or ministry. If God calls you to full-time motherhood? Do it with excellence (Titus 2:4–5). If God calls you to launch a business, lead a team, or preach the Gospel, pursue it with courage. “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid! For the Lord your God is with you!” (Joshua 1:9).

So how do you step into your God-sized assignment? Start here: 

1. Ask Him. Pray, “God, show me the works You prepared for me” (Ephesians 2:10). 
2. Ignore the noise. Filter criticism through Scripture. Is this God’s boundary or man’s comfort zone? 
3. Find your inner circle-your tribe. Surround yourself with Deborahs, Lydias, and Priscillas—women who celebrate your calling, not clip your wings. Those who will support you and also correct you in love when needed.
4. Start now. Use what’s in your hand: teach that Bible study, launch that project, mentor that teen. “Do not despise these small beginnings” (Zechariah 4:10).

You are not too much.
You are not out of order.
God has you in his sight, knows you, and has commissioned you.

The world may try to silence you. Religion may try to shrink you. But your Father says: “You are My daughter whose “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). He’s given us gifts to build My Kingdom (1 Peter 4:10). Now go. Be wise and courageous. Do the work God has called you to do. 

The box was shattered at the cross. Step into the space grace made for you.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.”
—Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Walk in your assignment, my beautiful sister. The world is waiting for the sound of your footsteps.

You’re not confined to a role, you are called to a mission for Christ in a way fashioned just for you.