Many proofs support the authenticity of scripture, including its mention of the roles women played in accomplishing God’s plan. Another support is its transparency—the way it unapologetically exposes the seamy underside of its key players.
The Bible presents the good, bad and ugly, all for our instruction.
Tamar’s story, told in Genesis 38, checks both boxes. Her story isn’t pretty. Don’t look for (more…)
Forrest Gump would likely summarize James 2:14-26 by saying, “Faith is as faith does.” And one Old Testament woman gives us a beautiful picture of that kind of living, doing faith.
She’s referred to as only “the Shunammite” in reference to her home in Shunem, whose people lived in the light of Israel’s God while simultaneously in the shadow of Baal worship. (more…)
You have been a pariah for more than a decade. Cries of “unclean!” and stares of condemnation follow you everywhere. The social isolation and loneliness add insult to injury. You’ve been bleeding for 12 years, and doctors have done nothing more than bleed your pocket dry.
You’re weak. You’re broken. You’re desperate. You have no money and have earned no sympathy.
But then (more…)
The gospel arrived in Europe via a divergent and unlikely path. It was divergent because the Lord thwarted man’s plans and introduced a better one. It was unlikely because it was a Jewish woman—a prominent entrepreneur named Lydia—who became the continent’s first recorded disciple.
Scripture only mentions Lydia twice. But each mention demonstrates her full surrender and hospitality.
Meeting her and a group (more…)
Besides that, they learn to be idlers, (more…)
Widows in ancient Israel faced lives of hardship and dependence. Without husbands, they became vulnerable to poverty, isolation and oppression. Their options were slim: Remarry or depend upon other family members and gifts from temple tithes.
Their precarious situation made them morally vulnerable as well, prone to yielding to passions that would lead them astray spiritually.
Besides that, they learn to be idlers, (more…)