Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

9. Phoebe

“Phoebe was a deacon who served with the overseers/elders of the church. She supported Paul and many others in the work of the Lord. No mention is made of her husband, if she had one.

Phoebe in the Bible – In Romans 16:1-2 

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.”

How she exceeded expectations:

Women were not readily given leadership roles during this time, as women were not trusted the same as men in the culture. Her appointment as a servant/deacon shows the trust that was attributed to her by the early church leaders.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Phoebe is a believer in Christ (sister), a servant, and a helper of many. Paul commends her to the Roman church and asks them to receive her and help her in whatever she needs. She had earned the trust of Paul and other firs century church leaders.

Whatever our status in life, we can earn the respect of others by our commitment to Christ. We need to serve others and be willing to give our time, talent, and treasures.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

8. Priscilla

“Priscilla, also known as Prisca, was a Jewish woman from Rome who converted to Christianity. Some may point out that she is always mentioned with her husband and never on her own. However, they are always shown as equals in Christ, and the two of them together are remembered as leaders of the early church.

Priscilla in the Bible – Romans 16:3-4 

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, who work with me in Christ Jesus, and who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.”

Pricilla and Aquila were tentmakers like Paul (Acts 18:3).

Luke also tells us in Acts 18 that when Apollos began to speak in Ephesus it was Priscilla and Aquila together who pulled him aside and explained the Way of God more accurately.

How she exceeded expectations: 

Priscilla is an example of how a husband and wife can have an equal partnership in their work for the Lord. She was noted of having equal importance to her husband, both to God and the early church. Here we see the early church respecting husbands and wives working together as useful teachers for the gospel.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Priscilla was a well-trained leader in the first century church. She was a tent maker, a teacher of God’s word, loyal to Paul’s ministry, and wise in correct doctrine.

Does God use women in ministry? YES! Priscilla is commended by Paul for her hard work. She is also faithful to her husband. They work together to see people saved and encouraged in God’s word.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

6. Huldah

“After the priest Hilkiah discovered a book of the Law during renovations at Solomon’s Temple, Huldah declared prophetically that the book they found was the authentic word of the Lord. She also prophesied destruction, as the people had not been following the instructions in the book. Yet, she ends with reassurance for King Josiah that he would not see the destruction because of his repentance.

Huldah was married yet also was a prophetess in her own right. She was used by God to declare that the writings found were authentic Scripture. You can find her mentioned in 2 Kings 22 and again in 2 Chronicles 34:22-28.

Huldah in the Bible – 2 Kings 22:14

‘Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Akbor, Shaphan and Asaiah went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Huldah is the only female prophet in the book of Kings. When King Josiah had questions about the book of the Law that was found, his priest, secretary, and attendant went to see Huldah to clarify God’s Word. They trusted that Huldah would prophesy the truth; it didn’t matter that she was a prophetess.”

Why did Hilkiah, the priest, go to Huldah for answers about the book of the law? He was the priest and should have been able to answer the king’s questions.

Could it be for the last 57 years, two evil kings, Manasseh and Amon, did evil in the sight of the Lord. The temple was desecrated, idols were worshipped, Baal worship was reinstituted, innocent blood was shed. They failed to listen to the prophets of God. The book of the law was not read or obeyed. (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

The priests were not taught the law during this time.

God chose Huldah to be His spokesperson. God confirmed that the book they found was the book of the law. Then a prophetic word of judgement was given. The result was repentance from King Josiah, public reading of the book of the law, reforms in obedience to the book of the law. Unfortunately, the obedience to God only lasted through the lifetime of Josiah.

Huldah set in motion the last revival Israel was to see before the Babylonian captivity.

7. Lydia

“Lydia was one of the first converts to Christianity. In Acts 16:14-15, she is described as a worshiper of God and a businesswoman with a family. The Lord opened her heart, and she and her entire household were baptized. She then opened her house to Paul and his companions, offering hospitality to the missionaries.

Lydia in the Bible – Acts 16:14-15

“A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home.” And she prevailed upon us.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Lydia was part of a group that met for prayer by the river; they did not have a synagogue, as synagogues required at least 10 Jewish men. Being a seller of purple cloth, she would have been wealthy; yet, she humbled herself offering hospitality to others. Luke mentions Lydia by name, noting her importance in this record of history.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Lydia challenges us to use what we have for God. A brand new believer, she uses her wealth and home to minister to Paul and his associates. When Paul and Silas are released from jail, Acts 16:40, they went to the house of Lydia. 

Not all ministry is preaching and teaching. Prayer, helps, logistics, food, and lodging are required for the gospel message to go forward.

8. Priscilla

“Priscilla, also known as Prisca, was a Jewish woman from Rome who converted to Christianity. Some may point out that she is always mentioned with her husband and never on her own. However, they are always shown as equals in Christ, and the two of them together are remembered as leaders of the early church.

Priscilla in the Bible – Romans 16:3-4 

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, who work with me in Christ Jesus, and who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.”

Pricilla and Aquila were tentmakers like Paul (Acts 18:3).

Luke also tells us in Acts 18 that when Apollos began to speak in Ephesus it was Priscilla and Aquila together who pulled him aside and explained the Way of God more accurately.

How she exceeded expectations: 

Priscilla is an example of how a husband and wife can have an equal partnership in their work for the Lord. She was noted of having equal importance to her husband, both to God and the early church. Here we see the early church respecting husbands and wives working together as useful teachers for the gospel.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Priscilla was a well-trained leader in the first century church. She was a tent maker, a teacher of God’s word, loyal to Paul’s ministry, and wise in correct doctrine.

Does God use women in ministry? YES! Priscilla is commended by Paul for her hard work. She is also faithful to her husband. They work together to see people saved and encouraged in God’s word.

9. Phoebe

“Phoebe was a deacon who served with the overseers/elders of the church. She supported Paul and many others in the work of the Lord. No mention is made of her husband, if she had one.

Phoebe in the Bible – In Romans 16:1-2 

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Women were not readily given leadership roles during this time, as women were not trusted the same as men in the culture. Her appointment as a servant/deacon shows the trust that was attributed to her by the early church leaders.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Phoebe is a believer in Christ (sister), a servant, and a helper of many. Paul commends her to the Roman church and asks them to receive her and help her in whatever she needs. She had earned the trust of Paul and other firs century church leaders.

Whatever our status in life, we can earn the respect of others by our commitment to Christ. We need to serve others and be willing to give our time, talent, and treasures.

10. The Women Who Witnessed the Resurrection of Christ 

During the time of Christ, women were not allowed to be witnesses in the legal sense. Their testimony was not considered credible. Yet, it is women who are recorded in the gospels as the first to see the risen Christ and proclaim him to the rest of the disciples.

The accounts vary across the gospels, and while Mary Magdalene is the first to witness the risen Jesus in all four, the Gospels of Luke and Matthew include other women as witnesses too. Matthew 28:1 includes, “the other Mary,” while Luke 24:10 includes Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women.

How they exceeded expectations: 

These women were recorded in history as credible witnesses, in a time when men alone were considered trustworthy. This record has stumped many over the years who assumed the disciples of Jesus made up the resurrection account.  (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Final thoughts…

There are many strong women in the Bible who depended on God more than themselves. Some had to lie to save others, and others broke tradition to do the right thing. Their deeds, as guided by God, are recorded in the Bible for all to read and be inspired by.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

7. Lydia

“Lydia was one of the first converts to Christianity. In Acts 16:14-15, she is described as a worshiper of God and a businesswoman with a family. The Lord opened her heart, and she and her entire household were baptized. She then opened her house to Paul and his companions, offering hospitality to the missionaries.

Lydia in the Bible – Acts 16:14-15

“A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home.” And she prevailed upon us.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Lydia was part of a group that met for prayer by the river; they did not have a synagogue, as synagogues required at least 10 Jewish men. Being a seller of purple cloth, she would have been wealthy; yet, she humbled herself offering hospitality to others. Luke mentions Lydia by name, noting her importance in this record of history.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Lydia challenges us to use what we have for God. A brand new believer, she uses her wealth and home to minister to Paul and his associates. When Paul and Silas are released from jail, Acts 16:40, they went to the house of Lydia. 

Not all ministry is preaching and teaching. Prayer, helps, logistics, food, and lodging are required for the gospel message to go forward.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

6. Huldah

“After the priest Hilkiah discovered a book of the Law during renovations at Solomon’s Temple, Huldah declared prophetically that the book they found was the authentic word of the Lord. She also prophesied destruction, as the people had not been following the instructions in the book. Yet, she ends with reassurance for King Josiah that he would not see the destruction because of his repentance.

Huldah was married yet also was a prophetess in her own right. She was used by God to declare that the writings found were authentic Scripture. You can find her mentioned in 2 Kings 22 and again in 2 Chronicles 34:22-28.

Huldah in the Bible – 2 Kings 22:14 READ: 2 Kings 22:8-23:3

‘Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Akbor, Shaphan and Asaiah went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

Huldah is the only female prophet in the book of Kings. When King Josiah had questions about the book of the Law that was found, his priest, secretary, and attendant went to see Huldah to clarify God’s Word. They trusted that Huldah would prophesy the truth; it didn’t matter that she was a prophetess.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Why did Hilkiah, the priest, go to Huldah for answers about the book of the law? He was the priest and should have been able to answer the king’s questions.

Could it be for the last 57 years, two evil kings, Manasseh and Amon, did evil in the sight of the Lord. The temple was desecrated, idols were worshipped, Baal worship was reinstituted, innocent blood was shed. They failed to listen to the prophets of God. The book of the law was not read or obeyed.

The priests were not taught the law during this time.

God chose Huldah to be His spokesperson. God confirmed that the book they found was the book of the law. Then a prophetic word of judgement was given. The result was repentance from King Josiah, public reading of the book of the law, reforms in obedience to the book of the law. Unfortunately, the obedience to God only lasted through the lifetime of Josiah.

Huldah set in motion the last revival Israel was to see before the Babylonian captivity.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

For the next two weeks we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

5. Jehosheba

When the Queen Mother, Athaliah, discovered her son, King Ahaziah dead, she executed the entire royal family to secure her position as the Queen of Judah. But, the King’s sister, Jehosheba, took her infant nephew, the prince Joash, to safety and he became the only survivor of the massacre. Seven years later her husband, Jehoiada, who was a priest, reinstated little Joashon the throne.

It was through Jehosheba’s bravery in defying her aunt, that the royal line of David was preserved. Jehosheba is mentioned in 2 Kings 11:2-3 and 2 Chronicles 22, where her name is recorded as Jehoshabeath.

Jehoshabeath in the Bible – 2 Kings 11:2-3

“But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the royal princes, who were about to be murdered. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah; so he was not killed. He remained hidden with his nurse at the temple of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled the land.”

How she exceeded expectations:

Athaliah was a woman on a mission, and she definitely didn’t see this coming! Jehosheba risked her life to save prince Joash and his nurse. If caught she would have been killed for her good deed. Jehosheba shows us that bravery is not limited to one sex. Who would have thought a seemingly ordinary woman would save the royal line of David from extinction through an act of love.

*The sad part of this story is that later after the death of Jehoiada (and likely Jehosheba), King Joash remembered not their kindness and put their son, the prophet Zechariah, to death.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Jehosheba showed tremendous courage. Athaliah was a wicked woman. She slew all the king’s sons to secure her place on the throne. Jehosheba saved the rightful heir to the throne. One of Judah’s Godly kings. She did what she knew to be right. Many spiritual reforms were made under the leadership of King Josiah.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

For the next two weeks we will look at some of the lesser known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

4. Rahab

Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho. When two spies for the Israelites came to her house she kept them safe and let them stay overnight. When the King of Jericho ordered her to hand them over, she lied to him and said they had already left, but in reality she had hidden them on her roof.

Rahab feared the God of another people, lied to her earthly king, and helped an invading army. She is referenced in Joshua 2, 6:22-25; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25; and in Matt. 1:5 alongside Ruth and Mary in the genealogy of Christ.

Rahab in the Bible – Joshua 2

So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them…Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you….When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. “Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them-and that you will save us from death.” “Our lives for your lives!” the men assured her. “If you don’t tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the Lord gives us the land.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

The king of Jericho would not have expected a prostitute to outwit him and protect Israelite spies. Though Rahab did not have the most flattering profession, she was wise enough to recognize that the God of the Israelites was the only God! She rightly feared God and became an unlikely friend to the men taking over her city. Whatever you might think of prostitutes, this lady of the night saved the day!

Rahab’s actions, at the risk of her own life, allowed the two spies to escape, return to the Israelite camp, and give their intel. That allowed the Israelite’s to conquer Jericho on their way to conquering the Promised Land. Her actions also saved her family.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

For the next two weeks we will look at some of the lesser known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

1. Shiphrah & 2. Puah

“The King of Egypt commanded the two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all the Hebrew boys when they were born. In Exodus 1 we read that the midwives feared God and did not do what the King commanded them to do. Instead they lied and said the babies were born before they arrived. This early act of civil disobedience saved many children’s lives. These women are great examples of how we can resist an evil regime.”

Shiphrah and Puah in the Bible – Exodus 1:17-20

“But Shiphrah and Puah had respect for God. They didn’t do what the king of Egypt had told them to do. They let the boys live. Then the king of Egypt sent for the women. He asked them, “Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?” The women answered Pharaoh, “Hebrew women are not like the women of Egypt. They are strong. They have their babies before we get there.” So God was kind to Shiphrah and Puah. And the people of Israel increased their numbers more and more. Shiphrah and Puah had respect for God. So he gave them families of their own.” 

How they exceeded expectations:

“These women feared God more than the unnamed Pharaoh in Exodus who could have easily had them killed. They understood sanctity of life, and they knew what they did in God’s eyes mattered most. These women were up against a hard choice, follow this new Pharaoh or reap the consequences. They would have been expected to cave in to Pharaoh’s command to secure their own safety, but they held strong to what they believed and refused to kill the Hebrew children.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Please read chapter 1 of Exodus. Their act of faith allowed Moses to be born. Moses consequently was used by God to bring judgement on Egypt and deliver the Hebrew children from bondage. Moses led the Israelites into the dessert and prepared them to enter into the Promised Land.

They chose to deliver life at the risk to their own lives. They were courageous, cunning, and resourceful.

They truly did exceed expectations.

3. Tamar

“Tamar was left childless and dependent on the hospitality of her father-in-law, Judah, but he abandoned his responsibility to provide her a son to continue the family line. He agreed to have his youngest son marry her, but he never kept his promise. So Tamar dressed as a prostitute, slept with her father-in-law (he did not recognize her), and conceived a son by him.

It sounds strange to us today, but in that culture, Tamar had more honor than Judah, because she did what needed to continue the family line—the line that led to Jesus. Her story is found in the middle of Joseph’s story in Genesis 38.”

Tamar in the Bible – Genesis 38:1-30

“It happened at that time that Judah went down from his brothers and turned aside to a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah. There Judah saw the daughter of a certain Canaanite whose name was Shu. He took her and went in to her, and she conceived and bore a son, and he called his name Er. She conceived again and bore a son, and she called his name Onan. Yet again she bore a son, and she called his name Shelah. Judah was in Chezib when she bore him…”

How she exceeded expectations:

“People would have expected Tamar to accept defeat, but instead she stood up for herself. Though it may seem like an odd way to do it, she earned the respect of her father-in-law and continued the family line. Upon realizing what had happened, Judah acknowledged his guilt in keeping his youngest son from Tamar. His acknowledgement not only justified Tamar’s unconventional conduct, but it also marked a turning point in his own life. Tamar’s son, Perez, is the ancestor of the royal line of David mentioned in Ruth 4:18-22.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Tamar and Judah bore twin boys named Perez and Zerah. Ironically, out of Perez’s line, both King David and later Jesus Christ, the Messiah, were born (Matthew 1:3). This is testament to God’s prevailing mercy. For even the most flawed and sinful of men can be used and blessed by God, not because of their merit, but because of His grace and the power of repentance.

4. Rahab

“Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho. When two spies for the Israelites came to her house, she kept them safe and let them stay overnight. When the King of Jericho ordered her to hand them over, she lied to him and said they had already left, but in reality, she had hidden them on her roof.

Rahab feared the God of another people, lied to her earthly king, and helped an invading army. She is referenced in Joshua 2, 6:22-25; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25; and in Matt. 1:5 alongside Ruth and Mary in the genealogy of Christ.”

Rahab in the Bible – Joshua 2

“So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them…Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you….When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. “Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them-and that you will save us from death.” “Our lives for your lives!” the men assured her. “If you don’t tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the Lord gives us the land.”

How she exceeded expectations: 

“The king of Jericho would not have expected a prostitute to outwit him and protect Israelite spies. Though Rahab did not have the most flattering profession, she was wise enough to recognize that the God of the Israelites was the only God! She rightly feared God and became an unlikely friend to the men taking over her city. Whatever you might think of prostitutes, this lady of the night saved the day!” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Rahab’s actions, at the risk of her own life, allowed the two spies to escape, return to the Israelite camp, and give their intel. That allowed the Israelite’s to conquer Jericho on their way to conquering the Promised Land. Her actions also saved her family.

5. Jehosheba

“When the Queen Mother, Athaliah, discovered her son, King Ahaziah dead, she executed the entire royal family to secure her position as the Queen of Judah. But, the King’s sister, Jehosheba, took her infant nephew, the prince Joash, to safety and he became the only survivor of the massacre. Seven years later her husband, Jehoiada, who was a priest, reinstated little Joashon the throne.

It was through Jehosheba’s bravery in defying her aunt, that the royal line of David was preserved. Jehosheba is mentioned in 2 Kings 11:2-3 and 2 Chronicles 22, where her name is recorded as Jehoshabeath.”

Jehoshabeath in the Bible – 2 Kings 11:2-3

“But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the royal princes, who were about to be murdered. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah; so he was not killed. He remained hidden with his nurse at the temple of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled the land.”

How she exceeded expectations:

Athaliah was a woman on a mission, and she definitely didn’t see this coming! Jehosheba risked her life to save prince Joash and his nurse. If caught she would have been killed for her good deed. Jehosheba shows us that bravery is not limited to one sex. Who would have thought a seemingly ordinary woman would save the royal line of David from extinction through an act of love.

*The sad part of this story is that later after the death of Jehoiada (and likely Jehosheba), King Joash remembered not their kindness and put their son, the prophet Zechariah, to death.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Jehosheba showed tremendous courage. Athaliah was a wicked woman. She slew all the king’s sons to secure her place on the throne. Jehosheba saved the rightful heir to the throne. One of Judah’s Godly kings. She did what she knew to be right. Many spiritual reforms were made under the leadership of King Josiah.

CONCLUSION

All these women were ordinary women. Yet when confronted with evil, they chose to do good. They rescued babies, stood up for what was right, turned their heart to God, while rescuing the spies, and saved a King of Israel.

No one expected these actions from these women. Ordinary women doing extraordinary acts of faith and courage.

They truly EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

For the next two weeks we will look at some of the lesser known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

3. Tamar

“Tamar was left childless and dependent on the hospitality of her father-in-law, Judah, but he abandoned his responsibility to provide her a son to continue the family line. He agreed to have his youngest son marry her, but he never kept his promise. So Tamar dressed as a prostitute, slept with her father-in-law (he did not recognize her), and conceived a son by him.

It sounds strange to us today, but in that culture Tamar had more honor than Judah, because she did what needed to continue the family line—the line that lead to Jesus. Her story is found in the middle of Joseph’s story in Genesis 38.”

Tamar in the Bible – Genesis 38:1-30

“It happened at that time that Judah went down from his brothers and turned aside to a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah. There Judah saw the daughter of a certain Canaanite whose name was Shu. He took her and went in to her, and she conceived and bore a son, and he called his name Er. She conceived again and bore a son, and she called his name Onan. Yet again she bore a son, and she called his name Shelah. Judah was in Chezib when she bore him…”

How she exceeded expectations:

“People would have expected Tamar to accept defeat, but instead she stood up for herself. Though it may seem like an odd way to do it, she earned the respect of her father-in-law and continued the family line. Upon realizing what had happened, Judah acknowledged his guilt in keeping his youngest son from Tamar. His acknowledgement not only justified Tamar’s unconventional conduct, but it also marked a turning point in his own life. Tamar’s son, Perez, is the ancestor of the royal line of David mentioned in Ruth 4:18-22.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Tamar and Judah bore twin boys named Perez and Zerah. Ironically, out of Perez’s line, both King David and later Jesus Christ, the Messiah, were born (Matthew 1:3). This is testament to God’s prevailing mercy. For even the most flawed and sinful of men can be used and blessed by God, not because of their merit, but because of His grace and the power of repentance.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.

Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse. 

While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

For the next two weeks we will look at some of the lesser known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.

1. Shiphrah & 2. Puah

The King of Egypt commanded the two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all the Hebrew boys when they were born. In Exodus 1 we read that the midwives feared God and did not do what the King commanded them to do. Instead they lied and said the babies were born before they arrived. This early act of civil disobedience saved many children’s lives. These women are great examples of how we can resist an evil regime.

Shiphrah and Puah in the Bible – Exodus 1:17-20

“But Shiphrah and Puah had respect for God. They didn’t do what the king of Egypt had told them to do. They let the boys live. Then the king of Egypt sent for the women. He asked them, “Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?” The women answered Pharaoh, “Hebrew women are not like the women of Egypt. They are strong. They have their babies before we get there.” So God was kind to Shiphrah and Puah. And the people of Israel increased their numbers more and more. Shiphrah and Puah had respect for God. So he gave them families of their own.” 

How they exceeded expectations:

These women feared God more than the unnamed Pharaoh in Exodus who could have easily had them killed. They understood sanctity of life, and they knew what they did in God’s eyes mattered most. These women were up against a hard choice, follow this new Pharaoh or reap the consequences. They would have been expected to cave in to Pharaoh’s command to secure their own safety, but they held strong to what they believed and refused to kill the Hebrew children. (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)

Please read chapter 1 of Exodus. Their act of faith allowed Moses to be born. Moses consequently was used by God to bring judgement on Egypt and deliver the Hebrew children from bondage. Moses led the Israelites into the dessert and prepared them to enter into the Promised Land.

They chose to deliver life at the risk to their own lives. They were courageous, cunning, and resourceful.

They truly did exceed expectations.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com