A Message for Young Female Theology Students

Posted On March 27, 2024

Written by Lynn Shaw, student care advisor

I want to direct my thoughts to young ladies who are considering, or in the middle of, pursuing a theological education. There may be people around you who are trying to dissuade you from this type of education. Perhaps they are of the opinion that it is more appropriate that men, as the spiritual leaders in our homes and churches, study theology. But what better way can there be to prepare for your future than the pursuit of the knowledge of your God?

From the Westminster Confession of Faith, we learn that our purpose, whether man or woman, is to glorify and enjoy God. To remind ourselves each day why we are here is important and helpful. That knowledge helps us determine the details and direction of our life. What does it mean to glorify our God? How do we enjoy One we cannot see or touch? We must come to know Him.

Ladies, I want to encourage you to continue this journey with diligence and joy. It is helpful to keep three things in mind as you study:

1. Theological study is a great privilege. Do not take for granted the precious opportunity you have been given to dive deep into the Scriptures. To glorify our God, we must know Him, and we know Him most fully through His Word. The more you learn about the Scriptures, the more you realize how much you don’t know. You will never plumb its depth. Make the most of your time as you faithfully attend classes, as you study, and as you interact with fellow students. Sometimes you may question the importance of the historical details, the theological variations, and other material you study. This is where you must trust those who decide the curriculum for you. All of it serves to make you into a well-rounded, thoughtful believer. A pastor friend encourages his congregation to “drink deeply” of all the benefits of the Lord’s Day. I would encourage you to do the same with your studies. In your gratitude, you glorify your God.

2. Right now, theological study is your calling. God has brought you to this school, at this time, for His purposes in your life. To be a theological student is, for a time, your calling. King Solomon challenges our laziness saying, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Eccles. 9:10). But make sure that this calling does not become an idol by putting it out of balance with the rest of your life. Work with diligence, yes, but there is more to life than school. Make sure that you are spending time with the Lord in His Word and in prayer, maintaining healthy friendships, taking care of your body, and being an active part of your church. This is good practice for the remainder of life as well, whatever your calling. We glorify our God by having a balanced life.

3. Theology is for life. As we grow in our knowledge of God, our love for Him and our desire to live a life of obedience and service to Him increases. He teaches us through our study of His Word, faithful preaching, the fellowship we have with other believers, and the circumstances He puts in our lives. The foundation that you are laying now is crucial for a satisfying and joyful life. Learning to dig into God’s Word prepares us for further stages in life to which God calls us as women. We are a part of the “chosen race, the royal priesthood” of believers (1 Peter 2:9). It is our duty, regardless of individual calling, to be able to “proclaim the excellencies of God” to those in our circles of influence (1 Peter 2:9).

Theology is not something to be learned and then set aside, but our understanding must grow in order to become more and more conformed to the image of our God. And as we grow in conformity to God, we are enabled by His Spirit to shine the light of Jesus in this dark and confused world.