Essential 100

The Stories of Women in the Bible

The E100 readings this week are highlighting women in the Old Testament. It is rare in the midst of the Old Testament patriarchal society to find an emphasis on women. In fact, I wonder how many Christians are aware of the stories of Deborah, and Manoah? Most of us are at least a little familiar with the story of the infamous prostitute Delilah and Ruth who became a grandmother of both the great King David and ultimately the Lord Jesus. But what about these other women?

From the story of Deborah we are encouraged by a prophet who led her people back to the Lord with justice and grace. She was steadfast in her faith that the Lord would give Israel the victory even when the commander of the army was fearful. She sang a new song to the glory of God in thanksgiving for their victory.

From the story of Manoah, the mother of Samson, we see the shadow of women to come, Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel, and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptizer. All these women experienced the Lord’s miraculous answer to their prayer for children. Manoah witnessed the best and the worst from her son, Samson. However her godly teaching must have had a lasting effect on Samson because he was blessed by the Lord to lead and judge Israel for twenty years.  

It is important to be reminded that the Lord has worked in the lives of women as well as men in his plan of salvation and spiritual growth for his people throughout history. I am very glad that the Lord has raised up strong spirit filled women in our congregation who offer us nurture, guidance, wisdom, compassion, and strong servant leadership.