Women of the Bible Series
Hannah…Praying Mother (I Samuel 1:27-28) I Samuel 1:27-28, “For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.” Billy Sunday tells of a minister who was making visits. He came to a certain home and asked for the mother but the child opening the door answered, "You cannot see mother for she prays from nine to ten." He waited forty minutes to see that mother, and when she came out of her prayer closet the light of glory was on her face, and he knew why that home was so bright; he knew why her two sons were in the ministry and her daughter a missionary. "All hell cannot tear a boy or girl away from a praying mother," comments Mr. Sunday. One of the greatest fears that troubles Satan is prayer. He trembles when a Christian prays. In this fractured world, each family faces troubles, tests, and tribulations, but the trial in your home can be turned into blessing if you turn to the Lord. A woman named Hannah begged God to give her a baby boy. Hannah had prayed earnestly, continually, and specifically for a child and God blessed Hannah and answered her prayers with the birth of Samuel. After the blessing of the child, she did not forget God, Hannah dedicated her son to the Lord for His service. Hannah kept her promise to God as she said she would (I Samuel 1:11). This truly exemplifies the concept of dedication. The LORD answered the prayers of thousands of godly people in Israel. Samuel, the last of the Judges (Acts 13:20) and the first of the prophets (Acts 13:24), by his godly life, his powerful preaching, and his anointing of King Saul and David, led Israel from the distressing days of the Judges, to the dynamic days of Israel. One woman prayed and a whole nation was blessed. What a good God we serve! We learn at least three valuable lessons from Hannah’s prayer life (there are more than three): 1. Hannah prayed earnestly (I Samuel 1:11). “…remember me, and not forget thine handmaid…” Hannah’s heart was expressed in her words. A praying mother is a great asset to her home, her church, and her community. She prays for wisdom and discernment in teaching and training her children. Her prayer is a desire that her children would come to know the Lord, and to serve Him, and to do His will. 2. Hannah prayed continually (I Samuel 1:12). “…she continued praying before the LORD…” Hannah prayed several times a day; every day. A godly mother prays for her family every day. Just praying on occasion is not enough. The Scriptures commanded everyone to pray (Luke 18:1; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6; I Thessalonians 5:17). 3. Hannah prayed specifically (I Samuel 1:27). “For this child I prayed…” Hannah did not just pray for any child. She specifically prayed for a man child. There is nothing wrong with praying specifically. In fact, it’s Biblical. Just as it is important when we make a list of priorities, God desires that we prioritize our prayer life. Prayers for your family need to be specific. God remembered Hannah's prayer and Hannah bore a son and named him Samuel, which means “God heard”. Hannah learned a wonderful truth: God answers prayer. Samuel was a gift from the Lord. The Lord had given Samuel because she had prayed believing. The peace came before she got the answer. Peace doesn’t come from getting everything we want, or think we need, from God. Peace comes from leaving everything with God, being content with what we have, and praying the Lord’s will be done. Prayer is the answer to our afflictions. Children are a precious gift from the LORD (Psalm 127:3). The prayer a every parent should be for the salvation of their children and that they would serve the LORD. Hanna’s influence on Samuel started a positive ripple effect. Samuel grew up to become a great man of God. He was a prophet, a judge, and started a school for prophets. He led many people to the Lord and honored his mother in ways that she hoped for. Hannah is a great example of godly motherhood. From the time she first desired to have a child, in prayer and purpose, she totally committed her future child to God (I Samuel 1:10-28). God was faithful in giving Hannah a son, and she remained faithful to her commitment to Him. She was devoted to the Lord. She viewed her son as a gracious gift from God. Hannah kept her word, she fulfilled her vow, and honored her commitment unto the Lord by dedicating Samuel to the Lord. He had been faithful to her, and she remained faithful to Him. Much can be said regarding Hannah's commitment and faithfulness. She kept her word and obeyed the Lord. We, too, must keep our commitments to the Lord. Points to Ponder: Surrender to the Lord and keep committed to Him! When we are in deep sorrow and our hearts are broken, prayer is the answer. The Lord desires to do the impossible through situations that seem unbearable. Questions to Consider: Have you made promises in the past that you failed to keep? Are you fully serving the Lord in the capacity He desires of you? What kind of ripple effect will you create in your encounters with others today? PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I know that nothing happens in my life that You’re not aware of. I know that You will not abandon me in this affliction. SO, I’m asking You to teach me to see Your comforting hand in this affliction. May this sweeten my love, secure my hope, and strengthen my faith. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com
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Women of the Bible Series
Tabitha (Acts 9:36–37) Acts 9:36–37, “Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.” Joppa was about 10 miles farther northeast of Jerusalem than Lydda, and it was on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The church at Joppa was incredibly blessed by the ministry and service of Tabitha. Two names are given for her: "Tabitha," which was her Jewish or Hebrew name, and Dorcas, which was her Greek name. Her name means gazelle. Gazelle’s are known for their graceful nature. And certainly everything said about Tabitha (Dorcas) speaks about her grace and beauty as a Christian woman! She manifested spiritual beauty by her gracious good works and generous giving to those in need. She was deeply committed to Christ, a very faithful and devoted disciple, full of "good works". She was a doer of good deeds touching the lives of many people who humbly worked behind the scenes. Tabitha had a positive impact on the lives of so many others who were in need. She was known for her deeds, her devotion, and for her donations. She was very charitable and full of good works. Tabitha used her skills to help make coats and garments for the widow women. She was a servant who was an industrious woman and an involved woman. Praise the Lord for servants like Tabitha who use their talents for their service to the Lord. Tabitha was generous to the poor and those who were facing difficult financial conditions. She was a woman compassionately moved by the needs of the widows, orphans, elderly, etc. She wanted to bring pleasure to the Lord by her profession and practice. As God worked through Peter to heal (Acts 9:33-35) and to raise the dead (Acts 9:40), he also worked through Tabitha with her acts of kindness and love. Acts of love that help those in need are also an outward display of the Holy Spirit and are just as important as physical healings or other miracles. She was determined that her life was not going to be miserable, pitiful, or idle. When Tabitha died, she was remembered as a disciple who did compassionate works. She was a wonderful example of Proverbs 10:7, “The memory of the just is blessed…” Servants of the Lord are characterized by their steadfastness to the saints, to the Scriptures, to supplication, and to their surrender. It’s been said, “The greatest use of your life is to use your life so that the use of your life will outlive your life”. God is always at work behind the scenes. He blesses and uses people who are surrendered, sacrificial, and servant hearted. True love not only involves our devotion to God, but it also involves our kindness to man. “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction”, James 1:27. Dorcas was most faithful to this duty. Not all are called to preach, or teach, or sing, or play an instrument at church, but everybody can be compassionate to others. What the Bible says about of good works? We are created for them (Ephesians 2:10). We are commanded to do them (Psalm 34:14). We are equipped to do them (II Timothy 3:16-17). God knows our works (Revelation 2:2). The Christian is rewarded for doing them (I Corinthians 3:13-15). Points to Ponder: Just as there was only one Tabitha, there is only one you. You are unique and irreplaceable. The things that we do, and the lives that we touch, will be remembered for good or evil. What we give and do for others today will be what we are remembered for tomorrow. Every day of our lives, whether we realize it or not, we are building up a reputation by which we will be known. Do all that you can right now, and do it in a way that pleases and glorifies the Lord. Questions to Consider: Are you living for yourself or for others? What do we have to show when we leave this life? What kind of impact are we having on the lives of those around us? When you die, will others be able to testify of your good works? What kind of memories will you leave in the lives of others? PRAYER: Lord, make a difference in me. Make a difference through me. Make me a difference maker. Each day You give me opportunities to reach others with the Gospel. I ask You to use me as one of Your instruments to restore one who has fallen in this broken world. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
Abigail (I Samuel 25:3) I Samuel 25:3, “Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.” There are many people in the Bible that will win your heart through their godly characteristics. In I Samuel 25, we see the life of Abigail, a beautiful woman who displayed wisdom and humility. As you study her life experiences, try to find ways to relate her life lessons to your own situation today. Let’s face it, in life we will have to deal with difficult people. You are called to bear with difficult people who can sometimes create trying circumstances for you. Your walk with Christ can thrive despite the chaos around you. Abigail was a wise woman of good understanding and who knew God, and therefore, knew how to live with an unpleasant and ill-natured man. Abigail was a wise woman not to try to forcibly mold her husband into a better man. Peter instructed, “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear” (I Peter 3:1-2). Trying to change other people, such as co-workers, friends, and family is no less uncertain. We can encourage, share Scripture, pray for, and be an example to others, but only God can transform their hearts. Abigail knew she couldn’t convince her husband to act honorably toward David, but she knew that she could choose to do what would mend the wound of David and honor the Lord. Life may have dealt you this kind of circumstance. I'm speaking of the kind of circumstance that you would have never chosen intentionally. So often we must deal with circumstances that come into our lives uninvited. Learn from Abigail that whatever is over your head—is under His feet. In I Samuel 25:7, 16 we see that David had protected Nabal’s shepherds and was now asking for a reasonable favor in return: that Nabal would give them provisions when they arrived. Nabal was rich, and so it certainly would not have been any trouble for him to comply, but instead of being wise and generous, he chose to be stingy, which only provoked David to fight. When her husband refused to help David, Abigail intervened by taking the blame and supplying David’s need for food. Gathering an army of 400 men, David set out to destroy Nabal’s household, and had it not been for the wisdom of one woman, he would have. Abigail’s wisdom kept herself and many innocent people from being killed, because of her husband’s foolishness. Abigail demonstrated her good understanding though she remained faithful to Nabal till his death taking supplies to help God’s anointed and eventually marrying David. God desires that we pursue close relationships with people who will encourage us on our journey for Christ, but some relationships are thrust upon us, and perhaps in Abigail’s case, a hot-headed, difficult, and stubborn husband. While we have the right to make our own choices, we will be held accountable for those decisions. We do not get to choose our consequences. Pride will escalate a conflict, but humility can bring healing to the rift in a relationship. Proverbs 25:11, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” Abigail’s wise summation and humble approach caused David to take pause and consider her counsel to avoid bloodshed. Proverbs 29:23, “A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.” Though Abigail was the one caught between a rock and a hard place, we see her courage and compassion as she bowed herself to the ground before David, interceding for her husband. David thanked God for her, called her blessed, and gladly conceded her counsel had kept him from losing his head as he was about to take the head of Nabal. Godly wisdom displays itself through godly activity accredited to God’s work through us. Through Abigail’s example, we see the cycle of wisdom in action: 1. She recognized that David was a godly man (I Samuel 25:18-20). Proverbs 9:10, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” 2. Abigail avoided conflict (I Samuel 25:18-20). Proverbs 14:16, “A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.” 3. Abigail acted wisely to resolve the problem (I Samuel 25:18-24). Proverbs 29:11, “A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.” Points to Ponder:
· You are called to bear with difficult people who can sometimes create trying circumstances for you.
Questions to Consider:
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the "Abigails" who are sensitive enough to You that they can be used as Your vessel to speak to Your servants and for Your service. Thank You for the wisdom of the people found in Your Word that I can also be sensitive to Your leading in my life and be used in ways to promote your kingdom work. In Jesus Name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
Mary…Blessed and Highly Favored (Luke 1:26-28) Luke 1:26-28, “And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the LORD is with thee: blessed art thou among women.” A perfect Saviour was the only cure for an imperfect humanity. It was God’s plan from the beginning to send His only begotten Son to die on the cross for the sins of mankind (I Peter 1:19-21; Ephesians 3:9-11; Genesis 3:15). Who would be the woman God would trust to conceive, to deliver, and to raise; His Son and our Saviour? What mother did He use, select and trust? That answer is Mary. While Mary was in a way favored above all women in being chosen as the mother of Jesus, this in no way suggests that she is to be worshiped, prayed to, or given a divine title. Note that Mary was chosen because she found favor with God (Genesis 6:8). Her humble and godly life pleased God to such an extent that he chose her for this most important task (II Timothy 2:21). Mary’s blessing would not only bring her great joy, but also much suffering and pain (Luke 2:35) because her son would be widely rejected and then executed for no fault of His own. In this world, when God calls someone to a specific mission for Him, it will almost always involve blessing and suffering, joy and sadness, successes, and disappointments. Mary stands out as one of the most, if not the most honored woman of all time. God’s description of Mary was “thou that art highly favoured, the LORD is with thee: blessed art thou among women” (Luke 1:28). Mary was willingly obedient to God’s will or purpose. She was one who truly loved and followed the Lord with all her heart, mind, soul, and strength from her childhood to her death. It was evident that she had a heart that was humble, teachable, submissive, obedient, and worshiping. She was willing to bear whatever reproach would come because she was willing to do God’s will. Mary is another great example of Biblical motherhood. 1. Mother’s Sacrifice (Luke 2:41) “Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.” Parenting has always been a practice that demanded unseen sacrifice. It costs to have children today, but it is worth it all. Today, parents are bringing children into a fractured world with challenges the previous generations did not have to face. To put it bluntly, we are living in a godless society, that has abandoned the basic principles of life. I’ve heard people say, “I don’t know if I want to bring children into this world today.” Don’t let this world tell you that it is too big of a job for God to give you a child, to bring a child into this world, and raise them for Jesus Christ. There are no degrees of difficulty with God. No big thing is harder for Him than a small thing. 2. Mother’s Service (Luke 1:26-35) “And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” (Luke 1:31) Mary was a woman who was willing to be used by the Lord. She was at the place where God could speak to her and be used of the Lord for a mighty work. The Lord is seeking mothers who are willing to walk with Him and surrender their will to His. If you will wait on God, seek the Lord, walk with Him, be there when God visits your life, He will do something in your life. 3. Mother’s Support (John 19:25) “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother…” One of the most difficult things for a mother to endure is to see their child have to bear their cross. Bless the mothers who will stand by their child when their child is bearing their cross. The Bible teaches that, besides John, all of the disciples fled, but His mother was there. If you want to be a godly mother, be there for your children when everybody has forsaken them and fled. When He was mocked, spit on, beaten, marred more than any other man, and nailed to a rugged tree, she stood by Him. This is the power of a mother’s love. A godly Biblical Christian mother will stand by their child when the entire world has turned against them. Mary discovered that God had a plan personalized just for her. When we are obedient and comply with His purpose, He can use us beyond our greatest imagination. We should be willing to obey God’s will and purpose for our lives even if we do not understand why. God sees the whole story and He has already written the final chapter. We can only see the current page we are on. Jesus set the example when He prayed, “not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42). Points to Ponder: What seems hard for us, even impossible, is nothing for Him. In spite of a problem seeming difficult from our perspective, there are no degrees of difficulty from God's. Our problems, whether minute or monumental, are not problems at all to God. Questions to Consider: Do you trust God enough to let Him use you? What are some struggles you faced when the Lord wanted to use you in difficult circumstances? How did you overcome these struggles? PRAYER: LORD, I want to thank You for my mother, who loved me, labored for me, and has never left me. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com WOMEN OF THE BIBLE SERIES
Widow of Zarephath (I Kings 17:13-16) I Kings 17:13-14, “And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. 14 For thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth. 15 And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days. 16 And the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord, which he spake by Elijah.” During a famine, this widow fed the prophet Elijah before feeding her son and then herself. This widow was at the point of starvation, she and her son had enough food left for one last supper and they planned to lie down and starve to death. She did not have very much, only a handful of meal and a little oil. Notice! Here arrived the man of God! He told her to feed him first. When she heard the Word of God, she went and did as Elijah had commanded her. This required great faith - to use the last little bit of meal she had to prepare bread for a total stranger. Yet she did it by faith! God wants us to learn to trust Him in every circumstance, regardless of what outward appearances may suggest. When God gives you His Word, you can bank on it. If you have dedicated your life to the Lord and are fully committed to carrying out His will, then you are the Lord's servant, and He is responsible to provide your need. She knew that the Lord was his God (I Kings 17:12). God was not unconcerned about the needs and misery of the poor widow. In fact, He sent Elijah to encourage her faith and give her some material blessings at a time when she felt all was lost. Elijah challenged the widow to act on faith and feed him first with her very last meal (I Kings 17:13). Elijah was declaring that the Lord God of Israel would supply her needs if she trusted him (I Kings 17:14). The widow believed God’s Word through Elijah and did as he said (I Kings 17:15-16). Because of her faith in God and what He said through the prophet Elijah, the widow was willing to exchange the certain for the uncertain, the seen for the unseen (I Kings 17:10-16; Hebrews 11:27). God honored her faith not only with material blessings, but also with spiritual blessings. Her “barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail” (I Kings 17:16). Even in the face of certain death, she acted on faith, trusting in the word of the living God, and He provided. Jesus commended this woman’s faith in Luke 4. Luke 4:25-26, “But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; 26 But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.” The outcome of the faith giving was a barrel of meal that would not “waste” and a cruse of oil that would not “fail”. They would eat many days. She gave to the Lord and the Lord gave to her. She was rewarded for her faith giving as the widow gave to Elijah first, then to her son, and then herself. As was with the widow, we must give to God first before we can see God provide for us. The widow’s barrel of meal and cruse of oil never ran out. The power of God never fails, especially when you are scraping the bottom of the barrel. The flour that was used is a great reminder of Jesus Christ and His Word, the Bread of Life. The oil is a reminder of the Holy Spirit. They never fail. The meal and oil strengthened Elijah and the widow. The Word of God and the Spirit of God strengthen us. When we put the Lord first, He will multiply the little we have and meet our needs. No one has ever, or will ever, discover the limits of God’s great ability. God provides for His people. But there is a condition. We must trust and obey God's Word. Just as the widow trusted and obeyed the Lord, so we, too, must trust and obey Him. If we seek the Lord and His righteousness first, He promises to provide food, clothing, and shelter for His people. God will be with us every step of the way. He will hold our hands, hold us up, and even carry us when needed. PRAYER: Father in Heaven, thank You that you are always faithful to Your promises of provision. You have faithfully provided for me and my family. You have promised to supply all my needs according to Your riches in glory. You are our Provider for both our physical and spiritual needs. Thank You that You delight to provide for my needs. Lord, it is a great comfort to know that You know everything about me. You know the needs and necessities of life I have before they arise. Forgive me for not relying on You as I ought. Teach me to rely on You and to rely less upon myself. Help me to cast all my care on You. Keep my heart ever thankful for Your gracious provision. In Jesus Name. AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
A Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:10) Proverbs 31:10, “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” In Proverbs 31, we see the characteristics of a virtuous woman. She is hard working, frugal, loves her husband, puts her family first, is trustworthy and wise, and isn't a worrier. Proverbs 31 was written by a king, but taught by a mother. What she taught her son influenced a family, a nation, and the world. Although God never spoke about this king’s leadership, nor how he governed the nation, nor his prosperity. God did speak of what “his mother taught him.” The Word of God declares that a virtuous woman is a rarity (Proverbs 31:10). She is a treasure compared to being “far above rubies”. A virtuous mother is hard to find, but not impossible. In the end “she shall be praised”. She will be praised by her children and husband (Proverbs 31:28), and by her works (Proverbs 31:31). Praise the Lord for mothers who keep a close and consistent walk with the Lord. Proverbs 31:10-31 describe an ideal wife and mother—a woman of extraordinary character. Her whole life is centered around honor and reverence for God (Proverbs 31:30), compassion for those in need (Proverbs 31:19-20) and faithfulness and love toward her family (Proverbs 31:27). This passage does not patronize women, and it certainly does not describe an individual with no determination or abilities. Instead, it considers a woman’s capabilities and responsibilities with extremely high respect and honor. The word willingly (Proverbs 31:13) means "with desire, delight, or pleasure." She is not afraid to work and finds fulfillment in working hard. The lack of being prepared will send your stress and fear level very high. This wife and mother works hard, accomplishes much and lives in balance with her independence and commitment to her family. As a result, her family gives her proper recognition and respect. All the ideals described here will probably not be fulfilled in any one woman. But each wife or mother can seek to serve God, her family, and others with the abilities and material resources that God has given her (Ephesians 5:22; I Timothy 5:22). A virtuous mother is a hardworking mother. By this mother’s very actions, she displayed virtue. The Bible gives us 18 examples: seeketh and worketh (Proverbs 31:13), bringeth (Proverbs 31:14), riseth (Proverbs 31:15), considereth, buyeth, and planteth (Proverbs 31:16), girdeth and strengtheneth (Proverbs 31:17), perceiveth (Proverbs 31:18), layeth (Proverbs 31:19), stretcheth and reacheth (Proverbs 31:20), maketh (Proverbs 31:22, 24), selleth and delivereth (Proverbs 31:24), openeth (Proverbs 31:26), and looketh (Proverbs 31:27). This speaks of a husband that has confidence or trust in his wife. She is not any ordinary wife. She is a virtuous woman. This word "virtuous" means "strong, efficient, excellent, noble, valiant, wealthy." He is describing a woman who has integrity and character. She can stand on her own two feet. The word also gives the idea that she is financially secure because of her hard work, efficiency, and wisdom. Solomon states that her price, her value, is far above rubies or precious stones. Solomon describes the attitude and efforts of a faithful wife who cares for the needs of her family. She depicts the attitude of most faithful people who are concerned about others. Strong marriages have strong relationships between the couple. The faithful spouse produces stability in the marriage. Solomon states that the virtuous woman will do her husband good, and not evil all the days of her life, indicating she will do her best. The virtuous woman is attentive to those under her care. She looketh well to her household. The word looketh means "to be attentive, keep watch, or to watch closely." A woman that is gracious, kind, or generous, gains favor and honor from others. A wife that is consistent in her love and a help to her husband will stimulate trust, security, serenity, support, and self-confidence in her husband. One way to be gracious is to be grateful to God for what He has done for you and grateful to other people for their love and kindness. She is recognized also for her words of wisdom and kindness (Proverbs 31:26). She speaks virtuously because her heart is full of virtue. Moral goodness will not come out if there is no moral goodness inside. Our Lord Jesus Christ spoke of this in Matthew 12:34. The Word of God reveals to us that this virtuous mother first spoke of her husband (Proverbs 31:11-12, 23, 28). A mother of virtue is submissive to her husband. A husband whose wife is virtuous is a man who is truly honored and blessed (Proverbs 12:4). Although some say the virtuous woman is unrealistic, I know several women who exemplify this passage. This passage is not a description of some unattainable goal, but a role model we should seek to follow. Abraham Lincoln recognized the value of a godly mother. He said, "No man is poor who has a godly mother." A godly mother's value is enormous. She will be a good influence on her children for the rest of their lives. Although much value is put on physical beauty, the real beauty of a woman is the inward beauty. A woman's substance and beauty are her virtue. Every Christian mother wants her child to marry within God’s will and to have a blessed and fruitful marriage. This does not happen by accident. What an testimony of a praying mother who is an example in words and in walk! Every mother has within her the ability to be a mother of great influence, wherever she is planted in life. She plays an important role and is key to her child’s potential and prosperity in life. The lessons she teaches her children often carry into the next generation. One way a mother helps her son seek and find a virtuous wife is by being a virtuous mother. What lessons will she teach her children? What lessons can you teach your children that will inspire them to live these lessons they have been taught? Prayer: Lord, help me to reflect Your character that I may inspire others to come to know You through Your Son Jesus Christ. Although I’m imperfect and at times inconsistent, I desire to be influential that I may impact others for You so that they may aspire to do great things for You. In Jesus name, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com WOMEN OF THE BIBLE SERIES
Ruth’s Reward (Ruth 1:14-17) Ruth 1:14-17, “And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. 15And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. 16And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.” Northwestern University researchers have developed an adhesive by combining geckos and mussels which has resulted in a superb adhesive which lasts for over one thousand contact cycles. Here we see Ruth who was not going to take no for an answer. Her actions spoke of her loyalty and devotion. As she would faithfully stick by Naomi’s side. May this encourage us to faithfully cling to Christ. We can take comfort that Jesus will never leave us nor forsake us. When Ruth promised her mother-in-law she would go where she went, live among her people, and honor her God, she showed an example of unconditional loyalty. When she committed herself to the very end of both their lives, she revealed the great woman she truly was. Ruth's decision beautifully portrays what every believer's relationship should be with Jesus. In Ephesians 5:25, husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved his bride, the church, even to the point of death (giving His life for the church). God intends for human commitments, specifically marriage, to be unending, and there can be no commitment to another without the total giving of oneself. We need more commitments like this one in marriage today. Ruth’s Fidelity. Ruth clave unto her (Ruth 1:14). What an example of human commitment and loyalty! The word clave means "to cling to, join with" It is a very strong word that carries the idea of a permanent bond. This speaks of Ruth's unwavering loyalty. Ruth’s Friendship. “…for whither thou goest, I will go…” (Ruth 1:16). Ruth was showing herself to be a true friend. “A friend loveth at all times...” (Proverbs 17:17). “…there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother…” (Proverbs 18:24). A true friend stands by those they love. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus is that kind of a friend to us. May we, as believers, be that kind of a friend to Him. Ruth’s Future. “…where thou lodgest, I will lodge…” (Ruth 1:16). She is saying, whether you live in a mansion or a shack, I will lodge where you lodge. Most will follow as long as certain conditions are met. However, Ruth was willing to follow no matter what. This is the kind of commitment Christ wants from His followers. Ruth’s Family. “…thy people shall be my people…” (Ruth 1:16). “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15). We are His children. “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together” (Romans 8:17). As Christians, we have been born again into the family of God. Ruth’s Faith. “…and thy God my God…” (Ruth 1:16). Ruth left all behind for the sake of her new found faith. Paul said, “...I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8). May we, as God's children, be as faithful. When we look back on Ruth’s life. What she lost was nothing compared to what she had gained. Ruth’s full reward came about because of Who she trusted. How often have Christian’s missed God’s full reward because they only half trusted Him? God is still looking for people of deep conviction, those who will nurture a “for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part” kind of commitment. Can you say these words to Christ, “I’m committed to You through thick and thin. Where You go, I’ll go. What You do, I’ll do. Whom You love, I will love. I’m with You, not only to death, but through death”?’ Maybe, like Ruth, you need to leave something or someone behind to follow Christ. There will be sacrifices; the journey of faith is costly. Even today, your commitment to God will be challenged and tested. But hold on to God, persevere in your faith and don’t be afraid to love Him wholeheartedly because, like Ruth, you know what kind of God He is! PRAYER: LORD, You gave Heaven’s best to redeem me and give me the greatest security of all. How blessed I am to have a faithful friend in Jesus. Thank You for Your committed care and help me to trust You more. In Jesus Name, AMEN! If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
Esther (Esther 4:13-16) Esther 4:13-16, “Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.” We see Mordecai’s charge to Esther. Mordecai tells Esther that although she is in the king’s house, she should not feel safe from this decree to exterminate all Jews. In other words, he was telling her that although she is queen, she is still a Jew. He tells her that she and her father’s house will be destroyed. If Esther hesitated too long, she might lose out on her providential moment. Mordecai's message was urgent and procrastination could mean the death of Esther, her family, and the nation of Israel. It was vital that Esther learn there is no time like the present. Mordecai believed that it was God’s purpose to use Esther to save Israel and that she had become queen for this very reason. However, Mordecai knew that Esther could miss being used at her most important time if she did not do her part in God’s plan. If she refused to help the Jews, she too would perish. Even though God has all power and authority to do as He chooses, His highest purposes most often include much human involvement and responsibility. This passage reveals the book’s basic message: God is involved in world events in order to save His people from its evil so that He can accomplish his purpose of bringing spiritually lost people into a relationship with Himself. God can give ordinary people extraordinary influence at just the right time. God knows how to accomplish great things. All followers of Christ must remember that God is active in the events that surround our lives in order to protect us, work through us, bless us and bring us to be with Him forever. Esther was willing to give her life in an attempt to save her people. She would do what was right and trust the outcome to God. Mordecai had confidence in an unstoppable God. Mordecai saw the possibility of God using Esther to deliver the Jews. This could only happen if she was willing to have enough faith in God to risk all, even her own life. Mordecai encouraged Esther with these words, “For such a time as this”. This was Esther’s opportunity to do something great for God. Mordecai was certain and confident of deliverance by the Lord. This was Esther’s one opportunity in life to make a difference. In Esther 4:16, she stated, “if I perish, I perish”. Esther had an attitude of submission to a mission. Her attitude was that if she died, then she died. She was willing to die doing the right thing and trying to make a difference. If she died, she was going to die promoting the truth, and die trying to salvage her people. She was willing to give her life to fulfill it. She was determined to fulfill God’s will for her life even if it meant giving her life. God's grace has no time limit, but God does have a very definite timeline. He has a plan for the work that must be done in each of us. Esther’s instructions were to fast for three days and then she would go the king. Researchers have studied the effects of prayer for decades, and one of the more interesting aspects is its influence on human emotion. There is mounting evidence that prayer helps people become more forgiving, especially towards people they are praying for. Another great quality that people can benefit from prayer is that of self-control. People who spend time in prayer are more likely to keep a cool head when faced with anger inciting situation. Esther chose to abandon her place of comfort and safety for the sake of the lives of others, embracing the divine appointment God had scheduled for her. Esther had a challenge before her and wisely she entered the throne of the Lord with her dilemma. Not only was it forbidden to approach the palace where the king was without an invitation from him, she could have been executed for such an act. Due to the urgency of the situation, she was willing to take this risk; but not without fasting and praying. Prayer strengthened Esther and gave her wisdom to save her people. With courage, she boldly advanced and demonstrated how the Lord would be with His children every step of the way when they are doing His will. Are you facing an intimidating incident? Remember Philippians 4:6-7, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Point to Ponder: Don’t miss your window of opportunity. You can be confident that nothing can stop God from loving you (Romans 8:38-39). God not only had a "such a time as this" moment for Esther's life, but He has a plan for your life as well. Question to Consider: Is God calling you to show courage right now? How will you answer the call? Are we willing to give our life over to fulfilling the Lord’s will? PRAYER: Almighty Father, thank You that You are always sovereign and in control. Help me to see that my life is simply a way for You to display Your glory to an unbelieving world. Forgive me for fearing what I should be turning over to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
Eve: The First Mother (Genesis 1:27; 2:22; 3:20) – PART 1 Genesis 1:27, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis 2:22, “And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.” Genesis 3:20, “And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.” Eve, the first woman and mother, had a lot on her shoulders. In fact, she was a wife and mother with no example to follow. Eve, whose name means “the mother of all living”, was the only woman ever to become a mother without first having had a mother of her own. In fact, she had no sisters, aunts, grandmothers, or girlfriends to turn to for advice. In short, she had no role models and no one with whom to compare notes. It all started out so beautifully. How perfect Adam and Eve must have been, not only mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, but physically as well. God described the two humans made in His image as “very good.” Before the Fall, communion between God and those made in His image was as natural as breathing. They were also comfortable and unashamed in God’s presence. Then it happened. Eve was deceived (Genesis 3:1-6; II Corinthians 11:3), while Adam knew more clearly what he was doing (I Timothy 2:14), and so, he is named in Scripture as the one who brought sin into the world. We see that Adam and Eve believed the promise that God had given them (Genesis 3:15). The name that Adam gave his wife reflected the faith that he had in God's promise and the new hope they now had. God commanded them to be fruitful and multiply and before they fell they would have been very eager to carry out God's command. They would have had no physical limitations in their original state. The Price of Sin: There had to be the death of an innocent animal to provide those coats of skin that they were offered. This was for their spiritual need and they had to accept what God offered by faith. This would be an illustration of what the coming Messiah would do for mankind in the future. There manmade works of fig leaves were not acceptable before God, but His sacrifice for them was. Until people come to Jesus by faith they are living in rebellion against God in their life and have no hope (II Corinthians 5:21; I John 1:7). Without the blood of Jesus being shed, we would have no hope. Can you imagine how Eve must have felt when the consequences of her disobedience began to surface (Genesis 3:7, 10)? Can you imagine an unhappier scene? These two previously perfect human beings, in perfect relationship with God and with each other, living in perfect surroundings, were now hiding in shame and fear from their Creator. Intimate relationship with God had been broken and their relationship with each other damaged, as we see when God asked Adam if he had eaten from the forbidden tree. According to Genesis 3:12-13, we see that Adam blamed not only Eve for his sin, but God as well! At least Eve was honest enough when she was confronted to admit to God, “The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.” (Genesis 3:13). Try to picture for a moment what Eve must have been experiencing at that instant. First, her once-perfect relationship with God had been broken, and now her beloved husband had turned on her in an attempt to save himself. Could their love survive such an onslaught? Could she ever trust or respect him again? Amazingly, it is at this point that Adam named his wife Eve, “because she was the mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20). The Passion of the Saviour: Jesus showed His great love for us and He willingly laid down His life for us (John 10:17-18). Jesus loves us greatly and He specifically came to this earth to be the Saviour that we needed to be reconciled back to Him. There’s no question that Adam and Eve had some serious forgiving to do. They had both failed, and failed each other. Worse than that, they had failed God. And had even blamed each other and God for their failures. But thank God that, in providing a covering for their sins and wrongs, He provided the example of forgiving others. Both Adam and Eve lost their relationship with God and the earth began to become corrupt as a result. What is so troubling today is that I see are so many people making vain strides trying to restore the Earth. Imagine Adam and Even attempting to restore the Garden of Eden in hopes of giving the Garden a complete makeover to mask their own sin. This is the same approach so many people make today totally ignoring any need for God. The emptiness that man has in his soul is directly connected to the loss of relationship with his Creator. Only in learning of the folly of trying to reestablish Eden will he be able to accept the submission to the Lord that can fill that emptiness. The curse is there to point and lead sinners to the only one capable of solving the problem their sin created. Like Adam and Eve, so it is with sinners, the greatest need is to restore that relationship. We see that manmade remedies for sin never work and God's plan is the only one that can cleanse us from sin (Genesis 3:21). The plan of mankind is to cover sin, but the plan of God is to cleanse sin. PRAYER: Thank You, Lord, that You are my Father. Thank You that You love me and want what’s best for me and for my family. I pray that godly mothers would continue to fear You and serve You, and that they would keep their eyes and heart focused on You. In Jesus’s name. Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com Women of the Bible Series
Eunice…A Teaching Mother (II Timothy 3:14-15) – PART 2 II Timothy 3:14-15, “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Paul’s advice to Timothy was to stay in the Word. What a glorious testimony, yet an awesome responsibility! Godly parents possess strong faith that is genuine and true, real and sincere. Parents must trust the Lord Jesus Christ and rear their children to trust Christ. They must root their children in the Scripture so that they will know how to walk in Christ day by day. Eunice did not wait until her child was older to teach him the Bible, but from a child she made them known to him. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 gives parents the command of how they should give their children Scripture at a young age. The Bible commands us to “teach them diligently unto thy children.” This was to be done in six ways. 1. Thou “shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house.” Perhaps the most basic opportunity is when the entire family sits down together for at least one meal a day. 2. Likewise, we are commanded to talk of God’s words “when thou walkest by the way,” in other words, when we travel. 3. Parents are commanded to teach God’s words “when thou liest down” (bedtime). 4. “when thou risest up” (in the morning). Moses repeatedly refers to God’s Words (plural). 5. God, through Moses, commanded that Israel was to “bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.” Perhaps the greater idea is how one will tie a string around one’s finger as a reminder to do something. God’s Word was to be a continuous reminder. 6. Finally, Israel was to “write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.” Plaques of Scripture were to be placed on the walls and doorways of the homes of godly people. For the Scripture to get a child’s heart (Deuteronomy 6:6), we must teach it, we must talk of it, and we must write it. In other words, what they see and hear will become a part of them. It takes external teaching to make an internal change. Scripture does something for a child that a parent cannot. Scripture is God breathed and is from God and can transform a child’s life. Timothy had a family who exposed him to the Scriptures from his earliest days. He was blessed to have a family who demonstrated faith in the Lord in their lives. They not only exposed him to the Scriptures, they exposed him to how living examples of the Scripture can inspire human life. Scripture makes a person wise unto salvation. If man needs anything, he needs wisdom…wisdom about how to be saved. It is not enough to learn the Scriptures, or to know that the Scriptures are true. Timothy knew all this. He had learned the Scriptures and had found the Scriptures to be true. The claims and promises of Scripture had worked in his own life. Timothy also knew his teachers; their lives bore testimony to the truth of Scripture. But this was not enough. He too, must repent, believe, and accept Jesus Christ as his Saviour. Eunice’s teaching of the Scriptures to Timothy played a part in his salvation (II Timothy 3:15). She taught her son by example. It’s clear from Scripture that she carried out her mission with great success, for her son was filled with genuine faith. As a believing mother, Eunice understood the critical nature of this spiritual nurturing. From a child, she taught him about God and the essential truths of God’s Word. She didn’t just speak these truths, she also lived them. We should use every opportunity to teach children the Bible. Encourage children while they’re young to memorize Scriptures, particularly the book of Proverbs. Proverbs is clearly written to young people (Proverbs 1:4). What you put into your child will come out in their adult years. Timothy was a man of God because as a child he was taught the Word of God by his mother. Mothers can impact the lives of their children in countless ways, but the most important way a mother can influence and shape her child’s future is by nurturing his or her spiritual development. All children have the same habit, and that is the tendency to copy (Proverbs 23:26). Be genuine in your love God for God and His Word and your children will copy your actions. PRAYER: Lord, I thank you for our children. We can trust You with their lives and ask the strength of Your Holy Spirit to help us lead them to doing Your will. Each child was created on purpose with purpose. We ask You to help us trust You more. Bless our hearts with great faith, daily steps of obedience, and lives full of evident trust in Your love. In Jesus name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com |
AuthorDr. Blackman is passionate about helping others grow in the grace of the Lord. His devotions are centered on how to grow closer to the Lord through a personal relationship with Christ. Archives
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