Changing the world without leaving home

International (MNN) — Women are among the most marginalized people in the world.

In a number of countries, they will have the least amount of freedom, be the last to get food at the table, and may even be thought of as lower than animals.

“Around the world, women are incredibly discriminated against,” says Kelly Chesnut with Wycliffe Bible Translators. “We’re recognizing that more and more women are not lacking potential, but they’re lacking opportunity to grow and develop the spiritual needs of their family and of themselves as they face poverty and other issues.”

According to Do Something.org, nearly half of the world’s population is in poverty–about 3 billion people, one billion of which are children. Much of the poverty will fall on the shoulders of women and keep them from moving forward.

“Family needs, economic needs, cultural needs are causing women to really not have those opportunities to grow.” For example, if a girl had the potential to go to school, she might be kept from it because of family duties.

But that’s where Wycliffe’s new program, Women of the Word, falls into place.

“Women of the Word seeks to create a community of women who are passionate about improving the lives of marginalized women and children around the world, specifically through the translated Word of God,” Chesnut says.

“We desire to see women be a part of bringing hope, healing, and wholeness that is found in the transforming power of Scripture.”

They want American women changing the world without having to leave their homes.

One way they can get involved is with Bible study tools that are centered on the discrimination of girls. The Bible study is called “Hope through the Word,” and Wycliffe wants to stir up passion in people so they’ll take action against the marginalization and be voices for the voiceless.

Wycliffe is providing free downloads or purchasable materials so groups can learn about the plight women, as well as how God is helping to transform their lives.

They hope women will pray for those hurting, send ministry workers and equip them, or give to help build others up worldwide.

“We want to see women equipped and empowered by the transforming Word of God. And once you have God’s Word in your heart language, no matter what your circumstances are, you can face life with that joy and peace because you have the infallible presence of God.”

Take action with Wycliffe. Your help and prayer can make a difference for eternity.