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Weekly Word from Rev. Dr. Sondrea Tolbert

Editor’s note: Recently, our Executive Director, Rev Dr Sondrea L. Tolbert spoke at Gordon Memorial UMC United Women in Faith Women’s Day. From the Sermon title: Be Bold based on Numbers 27:1-11, Rev. Tolbert encouraged women to embrace boldness, faith, and purpose as they walk together in hope. The story of 5 Daughters of Zelophehad encapsulates the challenges that women faced and what they had to do to affirm their rights with dignity. Pictured from left Pastor Paula Smith, Gordon Memorial UMC; Rev. Dr. Sondrea L. Tolbert, Executive Director Scarritt Bennett Center;  Scarritt Bennett Center Board Members Jerlean Bass and Angella Current-Felder

There is a holy boldness that God calls His daughters to wear—like a garment of grace, power, and unwavering faith. This is not arrogance; this is authority. This is not pride; it is purpose. This is not loudness; it is legacy. “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” — Proverbs 31:25

1. Stand Bold – Numbers 27:1-2

The Daughters of Zelophehad—Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah—stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders, and the whole assembly. They didn’t whisper. They didn’t apologize for their presence. They stood!

They stood in boldness to claim their inheritance. Representation matters. Take up space. Own your space. Whether through leadership, media, or advocacy, be the voice that ensures every woman is seen, heard, and valued.

Question for reflection: Where do you need to take a stand in your life right now?

2. Speak Bold – Numbers 27:3-4

The Daughters of Zelophehad didn’t just stand—they spoke up! They said, “Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives.”

Bold women speak truth in love, with power and clarity.

They knew their purpose. They were not intimidated by the system. They didn’t remain silent at the table—they used their voice!

Your voice has power. Whether in boardrooms, community meetings, or the voting booth, use your voice to amplify the concerns of women and marginalized communities. Silence is not an option. Own the Power of Your Voice! Your voice carries vision. Your words shape worlds.

3. Step Bold – Numbers 27:5-11

Moses and God listened to the women’s argument, conceded that they had a fair point, and changed the rules. In the case of Mahlah et. al. vs. People, God turned out to be an activist judge who ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, changing the law and creating a new precedent. In fact, this probably was one of the first diversity equity and inclusion cases!

God gives His girls equality—and has commissioned them to take territory for His kingdom.

Could it be that they were already included and God was just waiting on the ASK to give the ANSWER! No matter what your past is God has a place for you, a position for you and a purpose for you. God is on your side.

Their boldness brought change. God adjusted the law for them.

That’s what happens when faith meets action—boldness breaks barriers!

Step Boldly into new territory!!!!!!!!! It’s already promised-claim it! Break barriers and achieve what once seemed impossible.

They didn’t just stand and speak, they stepped into new territory. They were trailblazers—paving a way for others. Be bold. Your step sets a new standard.

When you step bold in a new direction you are moving forward in faith!

Bold Women are clothed in strength, speaking truth, standing in purpose, and stepping into promise. Your boldness isn’t just for you—it blesses others. Your courage becomes someone else’s compass. Your voice becomes someone else’s victory. Be Bold!