What Women Really Want
Average Rating: 
[3 Comments]
"There's just something about my black leather jacket and Harley-Davidson motorcycle that makes minivan-driving moms frown in disapproval," says Lisa Harper with a laugh. "The funny thing is, I'm usually riding to a Bible study!"
Lisa, 42, doesn't mind shaking things up a bit. A seasoned author and in-demand speaker known for warmth, comedic wit, and skill in communicating biblical truth, Lisa's even shattered some "church lady" stereotypes by kicking off a women's retreat with a motorcycle ride up the center aisle of a church sanctuary. A shrinking violet she definitely is not.
But shaking up stereotypes or making the big entrance isn't what revs Lisa up. Her driving passion? Helping women discover the Bible she loves is far from boring, inexplicable, or irrelevant.
"I've met women who think Scripture's about as exciting as the phone book. Yet they feel they should read the Bible, so they sleepwalk through it or struggle with guilt over it," she reveals. As a result, Lisa—former women's ministries director for Focus on the Family, where she developed Renewing the Heart women's conferences—put her storytelling gifts, Bible knowledge, and trademark humor to work to create On the Road with Lisa Harper (Tyndale), a series of Bible-study books with interactive DVDs. Rich with pop-culture references and historical background, the first in the book series explores Hebrews; the second delves into the Old Testament Minor Prophets. This month her third releases: What Every Girl Wants: A Portrait of Perfect Love & Intimacy in the Song of Solomon—territory, she's quick to point out, singles like her often don't wade into and pastors don't often teach on "lest people blush!"
"My hope is women will put down People and pick up the Bible, that they'll see how pertinent, compelling, and personal it really is," Lisa explains.
TCW caught up with Lisa at home in Nashville during a break in her busy travel schedule and seminary coursework (she's working toward her Masters of Theology) to hear what she has to say about a woman's relationship to God.
You've raised some eyebrows by riding a motorcycle.
A lot of women tease me that they're always nice to bikers now because they're afraid one might be me! [Laughs.] There's this stereotype of what a Christian woman should look like—and it doesn't include leather and Harleys. It has more to do with baking casseroles or being peppy or …
Or being a size 2?
Right! You have to wear the right outfit in the right size, or you really aren't fitting the bill. But I bet we'll be stunned by how many people in glory won't necessarily be the ones with the perfect haircut and perfect outfit!
Originally published in: Today's Christian Woman, 2006, July/August, Vol. 28, Issue 4, Page 34
Related Topics:
Bible Study, Contentment, Desires, Intimacy with God, Relationship with God, Satisfaction
More from Jane Johnson Struck:
Kyria.com | Books
Join the Kyria.com Community!
Become a member to have access to the following:
- Full access to the bimonthly Kyria digizine, each issue focusing on a spiritual discipline or theme
- 50 percent discount on all of the downloadable resources in the Kyria Store
- Hundreds of members-only articles for thoughtful, influential women
downloadable guides
Sabbath Rest in a World of Stress
Practical insights for how to live a life that honors the spirit of Sabbath-rest.
The Mentoring Series: Nancy Ortberg
Discover leadership principles from a well-known author and respected leader.Browse More Guides
back to top
Average User Rating:
Paula
Leather and Harley: I cannot agree with you more about God being here for the brokenhearted. Your words fit like the missing puzzle piece. I asked Him for direction and this is where he led me. Is this an awesome God, this God of ours?! Today I struggled. Today I prayed. Today he answered. This same day service is incredible! To our Father, through the Son and the Holy Spirit.
ursula
Am a woman in Nairobi, Kenya and I say AMEN!Great article
Suzanne
It is funny. I am a Christian woman, but I've stopped being so stuffy too. I cut loose some times. I've also recently started to study the bible, and it has taken me all the way back to the Talmud. I am glad that you are writing on this.
Rate & Comment on this article *