31. Michal – Daughter of Saul

She Who Mocks Piety

📖 1 Samuel 19:11 (KJV)
"Saul also sent messengers unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David's wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain."

📜 Context:
Michal, daughter of King Saul and wife of David, helped David escape when her father sought to kill him. Her loyalty to David saved his life, but later, their relationship became strained.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Michal was given to another man by Saul but later restored to David. She eventually mocked David’s worship, and Scripture notes she remained childless.

Interesting Facts About Michal

She was the first wife of David (1 Samuel 18:27).
She loved David at first and protected him from Saul (1 Samuel 19:11-17).
Saul gave her to another man after David fled (1 Samuel 25:44).
David later demanded her return as a condition of alliance (2 Samuel 3:13-14).
She despised David’s dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:16-23).
Her story reflects a tragic progression from love to bitterness.
She is the only woman in Scripture described as being childless because of a specific moment (2 Samuel 6:23).

About Michal

Hannah More (1745–1833): “Duty to God may demand loyalty beyond personal comfort.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “True worship is not beneath dignity; it is its highest form.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “She who mocks piety exposes herself to divine reproof.”

Anne Dutton (1692–1765): “Faith in action is seen when we risk all for God’s anointed.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “Cold religion bears no fruit, only bitterness.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770): “To laugh at holy zeal is to grieve the Spirit of God.”

30. Abigail

She Stood as a Peacemaker

📖 1 Samuel 25:33 (KJV)
"And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand."

📜 Context:
Abigail, the intelligent and beautiful wife of the foolish Nabal, intervened to prevent David from taking revenge. She brought peace through wise words and gifts.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Nabal died shortly after, and David took Abigail as his wife.

Interesting Facts About Abigail

She is described as "a woman of good understanding" (1 Samuel 25:3).
She took initiative to prevent bloodshed (1 Samuel 25:18-19).
Her speech to David is one of the longest by a woman in the Bible.
She prophetically affirmed David's future kingship (1 Samuel 25:28-31).
Nabal’s death came ten days after Abigail’s intervention (1 Samuel 25:38).
David praised her discernment and married her (1 Samuel 25:39-42).
She later bore David a son named Chileab (2 Samuel 3:3).

About Abigail

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “Wisdom in a woman can preserve the peace of nations.”

Elizabeth Prentiss (1818–1878): “The soft answer of a godly woman can turn wrath away.”

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896): “Abigail’s courage came from conviction, not convenience.”

Ann Judson (1789–1826): “A wise woman lays down pride for peace.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “Abigail’s wisdom was a shield for her family and David alike.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770): “One woman’s faith may stop a king’s wrath.”

29. Queen Athaliah

Her Ambition Led to Blood

📖 2 Kings 11:1 (KJV)
"And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the seed royal."

📜 Context:
After the death of her son Ahaziah, Athaliah seized the throne of Judah by killing all possible heirs. However, her grandson Joash was hidden from her, and years later he was crowned king in a coup led by the priest Jehoiada.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Athaliah ruled for six years before being overthrown and executed. Her violent reign ended, and the rightful Davidic line continued through Joash.

Interesting Facts About Athaliah:

She was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, linking her to Israel’s wicked dynasty.
Athaliah introduced Baal worship into Judah, corrupting its spiritual foundation.
She ruled as queen regnant, not just queen mother, an unusual position for a woman in Judah.
Her name means “The Lord is exalted,” though her actions defied that meaning.
She attempted to end the Davidic line by killing her own grandchildren.
Her downfall came through a secret act of preservation—Joash was hidden in the temple for six years.
Athaliah’s execution occurred at the Horse Gate of the king’s house (2 Kings 11:16).

About Athaliah

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Power, when perverted by pride, becomes tyranny, even in the hands of a woman.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “A woman’s influence can build a nation—or dismantle its legacy.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “Let no woman glory in dominion that tramples the innocent.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Athaliah’s rise was swift and fierce—but so was her fall.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Her ambition led to blood, and her pride to the sword.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “Athaliah reigned without right and fell without mercy.”

28. Lydia

Lydia’s House Became a Church

📖 Acts 16:14 (KJV)
"And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul."

📜 Context:
Lydia was a successful businesswoman who worshiped God. She heard Paul preach by the riverside in Philippi, and the Lord opened her heart to receive the message.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Lydia and her household were baptized, and she offered hospitality to Paul and his companions, becoming the first recorded European convert to Christianity.

Interesting Facts About Lydia

She sold expensive purple dye, a luxury item in the ancient world.
Lydia is considered the first European convert to Christianity.
She was originally from Thyatira but lived in Philippi.
Her conversion marked the beginning of the Philippian church.
She was likely wealthy and influential.
Lydia was known for her hospitality and generosity.
Paul stayed at her house while in Philippi (Acts 16:15).

About Lydia

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): "A woman full of faith can open the door of her home and her heart to the gospel."

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742): "True devotion is not hindered by business or duty—it flows through both."

Amy Carmichael (1867–1951): "Where the heart is opened by God, the home soon follows."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758): "A woman’s piety can shape the course of a church."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "Lydia’s house became a church before churches had buildings."

George Whitefield (1714–1770): "The gospel finds a home where hearts are prepared by God."

27. Lois

A Praying Grandmother Shapes Preachers

📖 2 Timothy 1:5 (KJV)
"When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also."

📜 Context:
Paul commended Timothy’s sincere faith, which was passed down from his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice, both of whom nurtured him in the Scriptures.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Lois’ legacy of faith lived on in Timothy, who became one of Paul’s most trusted companions and a leader in the early church.

Interesting Facts About Lois

She is only mentioned once in Scripture.
Lois was likely a Jewish believer who became a Christian.
She helped teach Timothy from a young age.
Her faith was described as "unfeigned" or sincere.
Paul held her spiritual influence in high regard.
She likely lived in Lystra, Timothy’s hometown.
Lois represents generational faithfulness.

About Lois

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742): "The faith of a mother—or grandmother—is the cradle of the church."

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): "A grandmother’s prayers echo in the soul of generations."

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915): "Faith sung or spoken into children remains in eternity."

John Wesley (1703–1791): "The greatest theologians often first sat at the feet of their grandmothers."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "A grandmother's grace is a legacy no gold can match."

Dwight L. Moody (1837–1899): "A praying grandmother shapes preachers before they ever preach."

26. Sapphira

What We Pretend to Give

📖 Acts 5:1-2 (KJV)
"But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price..."

📜 Context:
Sapphira and her husband Ananias lied to the apostles about the proceeds of a land sale, pretending they gave all when they had kept part back.

🔎 What Happened Next:
God judged both Ananias and Sapphira severely for their deceit. They both fell dead, serving as a warning to the early church about the seriousness of hypocrisy.

Interesting Facts About Sapphira

Her name means "beautiful," but her actions were deceitful.
She was complicit in her husband’s lie.
Her judgment came after she repeated the lie before Peter.
Her story is unique in that God’s judgment was immediate.
Her death brought great fear upon the early church.
She is a solemn example of God’s holiness.
Sapphira’s story warns against spiritual pretenses.

About Sapphira

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): "A lie, once cloaked in piety, is more deadly than one spoken in rebellion."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758): "Holiness does not tolerate the veil of hypocrisy."

Amy Carmichael (1867–1951): "What we pretend to give, God knows we have kept."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "God struck down the lie not for its size but for its spirit."

George Whitefield (1714–1770): "Public religion without inward truth is a dangerous deceit."

Dwight L. Moody (1837–1899): "You may fool the saints, but not the Spirit."

25. Priscilla

The Holy Spirit is Not Bound By Gender

📖 Romans 16:3 (KJV)
"Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus."

📜 Context:
Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, was a tentmaker by trade and an influential early Christian who worked closely with Paul. They hosted house churches and helped teach Apollos, a gifted preacher, more accurately about Jesus.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Priscilla continued to labor for the gospel, supporting Paul’s mission and discipling others. Her impact was lasting in the early church, especially in Ephesus and Rome.

📌 Interesting Facts About Priscilla

She is always mentioned alongside her husband, Aquila, indicating a strong ministry partnership (Acts 18:18).
She helped instruct Apollos, a powerful speaker, in the way of God more perfectly (Acts 18:26).
Priscilla risked her life for Paul (Romans 16:4).
She and Aquila hosted a church in their home (1 Corinthians 16:19).
She is one of the few women named by Paul in his letters.
Her name sometimes appears before her husband’s, possibly indicating her leadership role (Acts 18:18).
She is one of the earliest known female Christian teachers.

About Priscilla

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “God has always had His Priscillas—women who rise to the occasion in seasons of spiritual need.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742): “Where piety and knowledge meet, as with Priscilla, there springs the true power of godly influence.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915): “Though unseen, a woman’s teaching voice echoes across the ages through faithful discipleship.”

Hannah More (1745–1833): “True instruction lies not in titles but in truth faithfully spoken. Priscilla stands as proof.”

John Wesley (1703–1791): “When divine truth is spoken by a sincere heart, whether man or woman, it bears fruit as it did with Priscilla.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “The Holy Spirit is not bound by gender; He poured His knowledge freely into Priscilla’s heart.”

24. Phoebe

Phoebe Bore the Words of Paul

📖 Romans 16:1 (KJV)
"I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea."

📜 Context:
Paul introduced Phoebe as a deacon (or servant) of the church at Cenchrea and commended her to the believers in Rome. She is believed to have delivered Paul’s letter to the Romans, playing a vital role in early Christian ministry.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Though little is recorded after Paul’s commendation, Phoebe’s faithful service and trusted role suggest she remained a key figure in supporting and advancing the early church.

📌 Interesting Facts About Phoebe

Her name means "bright" or "radiant."
She was the first woman mentioned by Paul in Romans 16.
Paul referred to her as a "servant" (diakonos), the same word used for male deacons.
She likely delivered the Epistle to the Romans.
Paul asked the Roman church to assist her, showing her respected position.
She was from Cenchrea, a port city near Corinth.
She was a benefactor or patron to many, including Paul (Romans 16:2).

About Phoebe

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “Phoebe bore the words of Paul and the weight of gospel labor in a single stride.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742): “A faithful woman is God’s messenger as much as any apostle sent forth in the Spirit.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915): “She carried not only a letter, but a legacy of trust and truth.”

Hannah More (1745–1833): “She was not silent, for her steps carried the gospel to the heart of Rome.”

John Newton (1725–1807): “Phoebe’s obedience was a quiet sermon more eloquent than ten thousand words.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “She stands in Scripture as a witness of what women may do in the church of Christ.”

23. Anna the Prophetess

She Was Waiting on God’s Promise

📖 Luke 2:37-38 (KJV)
"And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day... she gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem."

📜 Context:
Anna was an aged prophetess who worshiped in the temple daily. When Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple, Anna recognized Him as the Messiah and praised God.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Anna testified about Jesus to others who were waiting for redemption in Jerusalem, becoming one of the first evangelists to proclaim His arrival.

📌 Interesting Facts About Anna

She was married for only 7 years before becoming a lifelong widow (Luke 2:36–37).
She was from the tribe of Asher.
She served God with fasting and prayer for decades.
She is one of the few named prophetesses in the New Testament.
She instantly recognized the Messiah in baby Jesus.
Her ministry was one of worship, watchfulness, and witness.
Her story reveals how God honors faithfulness and perseverance in old age.

About Anna

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “Age is no disqualification when the Spirit leads; Anna proves it.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915): “With wrinkled hands she lifted praise, and her voice rose to heaven like incense.

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “The aged widow’s vigil became the first sermon of redemption in the temple.”

John Wesley (1703–1791): “She served night and day—not with sword or staff, but with intercession.”

John Newton (1725–1807): “She was waiting on God’s promise, and He did not disappoint.”

J.C. Ryle (1816–1900): “Anna teaches us the gospel is not for the young only, but for all who wait.”

22. Peninnah – Adversary to Hannah

They Who Mock the Lowly

📖 1 Samuel 1:6 (KJV)
"And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the Lord had shut up her womb."

📜 Context:
Peninnah, one of Elkanah’s wives, had children while Hannah remained barren. She frequently mocked and provoked Hannah out of jealousy or rivalry, intensifying Hannah’s sorrow.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Hannah poured out her heart in prayer to the Lord, and God heard her. She gave birth to Samuel, who became one of Israel’s greatest prophets.

Interesting Facts About Peninnah

Peninnah was Elkanah’s other wife, mentioned alongside Hannah (1 Samuel 1:2).
She had several children while Hannah had none (1 Samuel 1:4).
Her provocation led to one of the most heartfelt prayers in Scripture.
Despite her cruelty, Peninnah played a role in God’s unfolding plan.
The Bible does not mention her again after Hannah conceives.
Her name means “pearl,” though her behavior was far from gentle.
The story highlights God's compassion for the humble and afflicted.

About Peninnah

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915): "God often uses the pain others cause to drive us to the altar of prayer."

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): "Harsh voices may wound, but prayer binds up every broken heart."

Hannah More (1745–1833): "Suffering produces prayer; prayer brings peace."

Thomas Watson (1620–1686): "The more the arrows fly, the deeper faith must root."

John Newton (1725–1807): "They who mock the lowly may stir God's mercy into motion."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "God often brings His greatest mercies through man’s deepest cruelties."

21. Tamar

Daughter-in-law of Judah

📖 Genesis 38:26 (KJV)
"And Judah acknowledged them, and said, She hath been more righteous than I; because that I gave her not to Shelah my son."

📜 Context:
Tamar was Judah’s daughter-in-law. After the death of her husbands and being denied rightful levirate marriage, she disguised herself and tricked Judah to secure her place and future.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Tamar bore twin sons, Perez and Zarah. Perez became an ancestor of King David and Jesus Christ.

Interesting Facts About Tamar

Tamar was twice widowed by Judah’s sons, Er and Onan (Genesis 38:7–10).
She was promised to Judah’s son Shelah, but was kept waiting.
Her bold actions brought justice and exposed Judah’s neglect.
She is named in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:3).
Tamar means "palm tree," a symbol of uprightness and resilience.
Her story shows God works through flawed people and complex situations.
She is one of the few women named in Jesus' lineage.

*Tamar at age she confronted Judah

About Tamar

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "Judah’s confession was the first stone in Tamar’s vindication."

Anne Dutton (1692–1765): "Where men fail to act justly, God does not forget the forsaken."

Frances Willard (1839–1898): "Justice may arrive through unexpected courage."

Hannah More (1745–1833): "Dignity survives even in desperate acts."

John Calvin (1509–1564): "Though man neglects justice, the Lord will vindicate the wronged."

Thomas Boston (1676–1732): "God uses the bold to reveal the hearts of the proud."

16. Naomi

God Turned Naomi’s Sorrow Into Song

📖 Ruth 1:20 (KJV)
"And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me."

📜 Context:
Naomi lost her husband and two sons while living in Moab. Feeling abandoned and bitter, she returned to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Through Ruth’s marriage to Boaz, Naomi’s life was restored, and she became the nurse to her grandson Obed, an ancestor of King David.

Interesting Facts About Naomi

Naomi’s name means “pleasant,” but she asked to be called “Mara,” meaning “bitter.”
She experienced famine, relocation, widowhood, and loss of both sons.
Ruth’s loyalty is one of the most moving expressions of devotion in Scripture.
Naomi advised Ruth on how to approach Boaz.
She rejoiced when her family line was redeemed through Boaz.
Naomi is one of the most human, relatable figures in the Old Testament.
Her story is ultimately one of restoration and divine providence.

About Naomi

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): "God turned Naomi’s sorrow into song through Obed’s birth."

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879): "Bitter seasons birth the sweetest fruit of grace."

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): "When life strips you bare, God begins to clothe you with new purpose."

Hannah More (1745–1833): "What feels like loss may lead to life’s greatest gain."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758): "Sorrow can be the soil where legacy is planted."

John Newton (1725–1807): "Bitter providences often sweeten in hindsight."

14. Jezebel – Wicked Queen

Wicked Queen Who Promoted Baal Worship

📖 1 Kings 21:25 (KJV)
"But there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the Lord, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up."

📜 Context:
Jezebel, a Phoenician princess, married King Ahab of Israel and led him into idolatry and the persecution of God’s prophets.

🔎 What Happened Next:
She was thrown from a window and trampled, fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy of her judgment.

Interesting Facts About Jezebel

Promoted Baal worship in Israel.
Ordered the death of many prophets (1 Kings 18:4).
Plotted Naboth’s murder to seize his vineyard.
Confronted Elijah after the Mount Carmel contest.
Used deceit, manipulation, and power for evil.
Her death was violent and symbolic of God’s justice.
Her name became synonymous with corruption and immorality.

About Jezebel

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “She painted her face, but could not mask her soul’s ruin.”

Elizabeth Prentiss (1818–1878): “The woman who leads others into sin inherits a crown of thorns, not glory.”

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896): “Power without virtue corrupts both heart and kingdom.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “A woman's influence, unyielded to God, can poison a nation.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758): “Even royal favor cannot excuse rebellion against the Lord.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “Her cruelty, pride, and false religion were her downfall.”

15. Hagar

Hagar Found Grace in Exile

📖 Genesis 16:13 (KJV)
"And she called the name of the Lord that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?"

📜 Context:
Hagar was Sarah’s Egyptian maid. When Sarah gave her to Abraham to bear a child, Hagar became pregnant and fled after being mistreated. God met her in the wilderness.

🔎 What Happened Next:
God instructed Hagar to return, and she bore Ishmael, becoming part of the biblical narrative of God’s mercy even to outsiders.

Interesting Facts About Hagar

She was the first person in the Bible to name God directly: "Thou God seest me" (Genesis 16:13).
God promised to make her son Ishmael into a great nation (Genesis 17:20).
She fled twice—once while pregnant and again after Isaac’s birth.
An angel appeared to her, a rare event for a woman in Scripture.
She is considered a symbol of bondage in Paul’s allegory (Galatians 4:24-25).
God opened her eyes to a well in the wilderness to save her son (Genesis 21:19).
Though an outsider, she was not forgotten by God.

About Hagar

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “Hagar found more grace in exile than many do in privilege.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “No rank, no shame, no race bars the care of the God who sees.”

Phoebe Palmer (1807–1874): “The desert becomes a holy ground when God speaks to the abandoned.”

Hannah More (1745–1833): “The God who notices the sparrow heard the voice of an Egyptian bondwoman.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “There are wells in the wilderness, but God must open our eyes to see them.”

17. Delilah

Delilah Used Affection as a Cloak

📖 Judges 16:18 (KJV)
"And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines…"

📜 Context:
Delilah, loved by Samson, was bribed by the Philistines to discover the secret of his strength. She persistently pressed him until he revealed it.

🔎 What Happened Next:
She betrayed him, leading to his capture, humiliation, and eventual death in a final act of strength against the Philistines.

Interesting Facts About Delilah

Her name means “delicate” or “languishing.”
She asked Samson three times before he told the truth.
She betrayed him for 1,100 pieces of silver from each Philistine lord.
Samson’s hair, not his true strength, was symbolic of his vow.
She represents deceit and manipulation in relationships.
Unlike other women in Judges, she showed no faith.
Her story warns of the dangers of misplaced trust.

About Delilah

Phoebe Palmer (1807–1874): “Delilah used affection as a cloak for destruction.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890): “The strength of a man may fall, not by swords, but by seduction.”

Hannah More (1745–1833): “Her kisses betrayed more than Judas’ ever did.”

Charlotte Elliott (1789–1871): “No perfume can cover the stench of betrayal.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892): “She sold a judge of Israel for silver, like another sold the Savior.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714): “Samson lost his locks, his liberty, and his life through a false friend.”

12. Miriam – Sister of Moses and Aaron

A Woman of God Must Rise in Courage

📖 Exodus 15:20 (KJV)
"And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances."

📜 Context:
Miriam was the older sister of Moses and Aaron. She watched over baby Moses when he was placed in the Nile and later led the women of Israel in praise after the Red Sea crossing.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Miriam later challenged Moses’ authority and was struck with leprosy. After Moses interceded, she was healed and remained part of Israel’s journey through the wilderness.

Interesting Facts About Miriam

She was a prophetess and the first woman named as such in the Bible.
Miriam helped save Moses by watching over him and speaking to Pharaoh’s daughter (Exodus 2:4-8).
She led women in worship with music and dance after the Red Sea miracle (Exodus 15:20-21).
Miriam questioned Moses’ leadership, leading to God’s judgment (Numbers 12:1-10).
She was struck with leprosy but healed after seven days outside the camp.
Her name means "rebellion" or "wished-for child."
She died at Kadesh and was buried there (Numbers 20:1).

* Miriam at age she led worship after crossing the Red Sea

About Miriam

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “Teach your daughters like Miriam, to sing when God delivers.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “A woman of God must rise in courage, as did Miriam beside her brothers.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “Let every woman, like Miriam, proclaim God’s deliverance in song.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “A woman’s influence is mighty; see it in Miriam, whose voice led the women of Israel.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Miriam had her honors as well as her errors; God used her still.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Miriam sang with holy boldness—may we all have such courage to praise.”

11 Deborah – Prophetess and Judge

When God Raises a Deborah

📖 Judges 4:4 (KJV)
“And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.”

📜 Context:
Deborah was a prophetess and judge of Israel, providing spiritual and civil leadership. She summoned Barak to lead Israel’s army into battle against Jabin’s commander, Sisera.

🔎 What Happened Next:
With Deborah’s encouragement, Barak led Israel to victory. Sisera was later killed by Jael, fulfilling Deborah’s prophecy that the honor would go to a woman.

Interesting Facts About Deborah:

Deborah is one of the few women in the Bible identified as both a prophet and a judge.
She held court under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel (Judges 4:5).
She is the only woman among the judges of Israel in the book of Judges.
Deborah’s name means “bee” in Hebrew.
She composed and sang a victory song with Barak (Judges 5).
Her leadership brought peace to Israel for 40 years.
She exemplified spiritual wisdom, courage, and obedience.

*Portrait of Deborah at age she led Israel to a military victory.

About Deborah

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “A woman may lead her household to God; how much more when God calls her to lead a nation.”

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879) – “God’s command to go forward is never without His power to succeed.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “Deborah sang because God had won the battle; her voice rang with heavenly confidence.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “When God raises a Deborah, the trembling nation rejoices in His providence.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “Deborah’s faithfulness proves that God values obedience over gender.”

G. Campbell Morgan (1863–1945) – “Deborah stood fearless because she stood with God.”

13. Bathsheba

Even From Pain and Guilt

📖 2 Samuel 11:3 (KJV)
“And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?”

📜 Context:
Bathsheba was the wife of Uriah. King David saw her bathing, committed adultery with her, and later arranged her husband’s death.

🔎 What Happened Next:
God judged David for his sin. Bathsheba’s first child died, but later she became the mother of Solomon, and part of Jesus’ lineage.

Interesting Facts About Bathsheba:

She was the wife of Uriah, one of David’s mighty men.
David’s sin with her led to the prophet Nathan’s rebuke.
Her name means “daughter of the oath.”
Bathsheba’s second son, Solomon, became king of Israel.
She was later referred to with honor in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:6).
She may have had influence in Solomon’s court (1 Kings 2:19).
Her story is one of redemption, not just scandal.

About Bathsheba

D.L. Moody (1837–1899) – “Even in shame, God saw a mother of kings.

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Even from pain and guilt, God may bring a crown.”

Phoebe Palmer (1807–1874) – “God restores those who humble themselves before Him.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Bathsheba’s tears did not go unnoticed by God.”

John Newton (1725–1807) – “From the pit of sin, the grace of God draws forth royalty.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “God’s purposes are not undone by man’s sin, only magnified by His mercy.”

13. Mary of Bethany

True Worship Begins at His Feet

📖 Luke 10:39 (KJV)
“And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.”

📜 Context:
Mary of Bethany is known for sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha served. She also anointed Jesus with perfume before His death.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Jesus defended her choice to listen. Later, she anointed His feet with expensive oil, showing deep love and understanding of His mission.

Interesting Facts About Mary of Bethany:

She was the sister of Martha and Lazarus.
Jesus said she chose “the good part” (Luke 10:42).
She understood Jesus’ death better than the disciples at times.
Her act of devotion filled the room with fragrance.
Her story is recorded in multiple Gospels.
She is a model of worship and understanding.

About Mary of Bethany

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “At His feet is the holiest place for a heart to rest.”

Anne Dutton (1692–1765) – “Her love knew no waste; her worship knew no shame

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Mary gave her treasure to the One who would give His life.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “True worship begins at His feet, where Mary found her peace.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “A soul that knows Christ sees value others miss.”

G. Campbell Morgan (1863–1945) – “She prepared Him for burial when others were still in denial.”

12. Martha – Sister of Mary and Lazarus

Martha Served Not For Praise

📖 John 11:21 (KJV)
“Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”

📜 Context:
Martha is known for her hospitality and service, but also for her candid conversation with Jesus. When her brother Lazarus died, she expressed both faith and sorrow, engaging Jesus in one of the Bible’s most powerful dialogues about resurrection.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Jesus affirmed that He is “the resurrection and the life” and raised Lazarus from the dead, deepening Martha’s faith and confirming His divine authority.

Interesting Facts About Martha:

She lived in Bethany with her siblings Mary and Lazarus (John 11:1).
Martha welcomed Jesus into her home and was “cumbered about much serving” (Luke 10:40).
She expressed deep faith in Jesus even amid grief.
Martha was among the first to confess belief in Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of God” (John 11:27).
Her name means “lady” or “mistress of the house.”
She is one of the few people to have had a theological conversation directly with Jesus.
She displayed both practicality and profound faith.

About Martha

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896) – “Martha served not for praise, but because love filled her hands.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “She stood with trembling faith—and saw the dead rise.”

Elizabeth Prentiss (1818–1878) – “The Christ she welcomed as guest became her resurrection hope.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Though burdened with much care, Martha’s faith was not small.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “In the tension between grief and faith, Martha believed.”

G. Campbell Morgan (1863–1945) – “Martha met Christ not only in her home, but in her deepest sorrow—and found Him faithful.”