Of the approximately 340,000 firefighters in the US, only 24,300 are women, with even fewer operating in leadership positions. To put that in perspective, less than four percent of firefighters nationwide are women, according to Women in Fire and United States Fire Administration.

Stop letting people box you in and set up false standards. God is not impressed with our works, even though His indwelling Spirit influences how we behave. He is concerned with whether or not our hearts are pure before Him, and the heart isn’t visible to anyone except Him.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Empowering Everyday Women Ministries is excited that your donations have made it possible for us to give care packages to over 100 women battling this disease. In addition to helping us take care of others, don’t forget to take care of yourself.

I once thought I would never identify another sister in Christ to hold me down and be a friend. I have since learned and grown, and discovered lasting, fulfilling relationships that leave me feeling grateful and blessed. So then, as a believer, how do you identify great girlfriends and healthy relationships?