11. Elizabeth – Mother of John the Baptist

Her Faith Broke the Silence of Centuries

📖 Luke 1:6 (KJV)
“And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.”

📜 Context:
Elizabeth, the wife of the priest Zechariah, was barren and advanced in years. Yet she lived righteously before God. The angel Gabriel announced that she would miraculously bear a son—John the Baptist—who would prepare the way for the Messiah.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Elizabeth conceived and gave birth to John. When Mary visited her during her pregnancy, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognized Mary as the mother of the Lord and rejoiced.

Interesting Facts About Elizabeth:

She was a descendant of Aaron, from a priestly line (Luke 1:5).
She was described as blameless and faithful to God’s law.
God opened her womb despite her old age.
She recognized Mary’s unique role before anyone else (Luke 1:42-45).
She secluded herself for five months during early pregnancy (Luke 1:24).
Her son, John the Baptist, was filled with the Holy Spirit from the womb.
She named her son John, obeying God’s instruction despite family objections.

About Elizabeth

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “From the quiet of her home came the voice crying in the wilderness.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Elizabeth’s tongue blessed what her eyes had not yet seen.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “To birth a prophet, she bore a cross of waiting and a crown of joy.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Elizabeth’s silence was filled with the whisper of promise.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Her faith broke the silence of centuries with the cry of a prophet.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “A mother in Israel, chosen for the forerunner of the Christ.”

10. Hannah – Mother of Samuel

Hannah Wept, But She Worshiped

📖 1 Samuel 1:27 (KJV)
“For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.”

📜 Context:
Hannah, one of Elkanah’s two wives, was barren and deeply grieved. She prayed earnestly at the temple, vowing that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord.

🔎 What Happened Next:
God answered her prayer, and Hannah gave birth to Samuel. She faithfully fulfilled her vow by bringing him to the temple to serve under Eli the priest.

Interesting Facts About Hannah:

She was mocked by her rival Peninnah for being childless (1 Samuel 1:6).
She poured out her soul to God in silent prayer at the temple.
Eli the priest initially thought she was drunk (1 Samuel 1:13-14).
She named her son Samuel, meaning “Asked of God.”
She composed a powerful prayer of praise after giving him to the Lord (1 Samuel 2).
Samuel became one of Israel’s greatest prophets.
Her story highlights faithful prayer and keeping vows to God.

About Hannah

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Hannah wept, but she worshiped; she asked, and she returned the gift.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “True motherhood is a calling to intercede and to surrender.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Hannah’s silence spoke louder than a thousand cries.”

Phoebe Palmer (1807–1874) – “She lent her son to the Lord and gained generations.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “Every child given back to God becomes a vessel of purpose.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Hannah’s faith bore fruit not just in Samuel, but in Israel.”

9. Leah

Leah’s Pain Turned to Praise

📖 Genesis 29:31 (KJV)
“And when the Lord saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren.”

📜 Context:
Leah was given to Jacob in marriage through Laban’s deception. Though less loved than her sister Rachel, God blessed Leah with many children.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Leah gave birth to six sons and one daughter, including Judah, from whom the Messiah would descend.

Interesting Facts About Leah:

She was the older sister of Rachel and was described as having “tender eyes.”
She became Jacob’s wife through deception by her father Laban (Genesis 29:23).
Leah named her children with expressions of her longing for love and recognition.
Her fourth son, Judah, became the ancestor of King David and Jesus.
Despite being unloved by Jacob, she was honored by God.
She bore more children than Rachel.
She is buried in the Cave of Machpelah alongside the patriarchs (Genesis 49:31).

About Leah

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “Unseen by man, beloved by God—that was Leah’s strength.”

Frances Willard (1839–1898) – “Her tears bore fruit that shaped the course of history.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Leah’s pain turned to praise through the lineage of grace.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “God gave honor where man gave rejection.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “She taught the world that quiet perseverance wins favor with God.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Leah’s story proves God lifts up the lowly.”

8. Rachel

Rachel Waited and Prayed

📖 Genesis 30:22 (KJV)
“And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.”

📜 Context:
Rachel was the younger sister of Leah and Jacob’s true love. She struggled with infertility and envy but eventually bore Joseph and Benjamin.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin and was buried near Bethlehem.

Interesting Facts About Rachel:

She met Jacob at a well and captured his heart immediately (Genesis 29:9-11).
Jacob worked fourteen years to marry her (Genesis 29:18-28).
She struggled with jealousy over Leah’s many children.
She stole her father’s idols when leaving home (Genesis 31:19).
Rachel died in childbirth with Benjamin (Genesis 35:18-19).
Her tomb near Bethlehem became a symbol of sorrow and hope.
She was the mother of Joseph, who saved Israel during famine.

About Rachel

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Rachel’s beauty won love, but her soul longed for more.”

Christina Rossetti (1830–1894) – “She wept with empty arms, yet birthed a deliverer.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Rachel waited, prayed, and was remembered.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “Her anguish bore fruit that preserved nations.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “She was barren for a time, not forgotten forever.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “From her sorrow came a savior of Israel.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Rachel’s name echoed in Israel’s deliverance.”

7. Rebekah

Rebekah Trusted the Unseen Hand

📖 Genesis 24:67 (KJV)
“And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.”

📜 Context:
Rebekah was chosen by Abraham’s servant at a well to become Isaac’s wife, a clear answer to prayer. She showed hospitality and faith, agreeing to leave her home and marry a man she had never met.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Rebekah became the mother of Esau and Jacob. She played a key role in securing the blessing for Jacob through careful (and controversial) planning.

Interesting Facts About Rebekah:

She offered water not only to Abraham’s servant but also to his camels (Genesis 24:19).
Her marriage was arranged by divine guidance and prayer.
She was barren for 20 years before conceiving (Genesis 25:21).
Rebekah received a prophecy that her younger son would rule over the older.
She favored Jacob while Isaac favored Esau.
She helped Jacob receive the blessing intended for Esau (Genesis 27).
Her legacy lives on through the nation of Israel.

About Rebekah

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “To raise a nation begins with a woman of faith.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Rebekah trusted the unseen hand of God.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “She was God's answer to faithful prayer.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “Her hospitality opened the door to a covenant.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Her choice was divine, and her journey led to a nation.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Rebekah’s decisions shaped generations.”

6. Sarah

She Believed God

📖 Genesis 21:6 (KJV)
“And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.”

📜 Context:
Sarah was the wife of Abraham and waited many years for the promised child. She laughed in disbelief when told she would have a son in her old age, but God fulfilled His promise.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Sarah gave birth to Isaac at age 90, becoming the mother of nations and an example of faith in God’s promise.

Interesting Facts About Sarah:

Her original name was Sarai before God changed it to Sarah (Genesis 17:15).
She was barren for most of her life.
She laughed at the angel’s promise of a child (Genesis 18:12).
She gave Hagar to Abraham to bear a child, which led to conflict.
Isaac’s name means “laughter.”
She is honored in Hebrews 11 for her faith.
She is the only woman in the Bible whose age at death is recorded (127 years).

About Sarah

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Faith is born in the silence of waiting.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “She laughed—and the Lord turned her laughter into joy.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “From doubt to delight, her journey was led by faith.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “The matriarch of nations began with hope and heartache.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “She believed God who calls things that be not as though they were.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “Her womb was barren, but her faith was fertile.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Sarah’s faith laughs with every generation.”

5. Esther

Esther’s Plea Was Not For Power

📖 Esther 4:14 (KJV)
“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?”

📜 Context:
Esther, a Jewish woman, was chosen as queen of Persia. When a decree was issued to annihilate the Jews, her cousin Mordecai urged her to speak to the king on behalf of her people, risking her life.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Esther courageously approached King Ahasuerus, revealed Haman's plot, and saved her people from destruction. The feast of Purim commemorates this victory.

Interesting Facts About Esther:

Her Hebrew name was Hadassah, meaning “myrtle.”
She was raised by her cousin Mordecai after being orphaned (Esther 2:7).
She became queen after King Ahasuerus deposed Queen Vashti (Esther 2:17).
Esther risked her life by approaching the king without being summoned (Esther 4:11, 5:1).
Her bravery led to Haman’s downfall and the salvation of the Jews (Esther 7:10, 8:11).
The Jewish festival of Purim celebrates her legacy (Esther 9:20-22).
Nowhere in the Book of Esther is God’s name mentioned—yet His providence is clearly seen.

About Esther

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “God raises women with courage when the fate of nations trembles.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “She stepped into the throne room with trembling faith, and history turned.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “Esther’s silence would have cost lives—her voice redeemed a people.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “She fasted before she rose—her boldness was birthed in prayer.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Providence placed her in the palace to preserve the people.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “Esther’s plea was not for power, but for peace.”

4. Ruth

From Gleaning to Glory

📖 Ruth 1:16 (KJV)
“And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go... thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”

📜 Context:
Ruth, a Moabite widow, chose to remain with her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi after the death of her husband. Her loyalty and faith led her to Bethlehem and into God’s plan.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz, who later married her. She became the great-grandmother of King David and is included in the lineage of Christ.

Interesting Facts About Ruth:

She was from Moab, a people often at odds with Israel.
Ruth left her homeland and gods to follow Naomi and the God of Israel.
She gleaned in Boaz’s field by divine providence (Ruth 2:3).
Boaz praised her for her loyalty and virtue (Ruth 3:10-11).
She is one of only five women mentioned in Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1:5).
Ruth’s story is a picture of redemption and faithfulness.
Her name means “companion” or “friend.”

About Ruth

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “In her humility, Ruth gained honor everlasting.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “She clung not to comfort, but to covenant.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Ruth’s love bore fruit in the field and in the future.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “Her choice changed history.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “From gleaning to glory—so walks the faithful.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “Her heart turned from idols to the living God.”

3. Mary Magdalene

Mary, Once Tormented

📖 John 20:16 (KJV)
"Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master."

📜 Context:
Mary Magdalene was the first person to witness the resurrected Christ. Once delivered from seven demons, she followed Jesus faithfully and remained with Him at the cross and tomb.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Jesus appeared to her after His resurrection and sent her to tell the disciples, making her the first recorded witness of the risen Lord.

Interesting Facts About Mary Magdalene:

Jesus cast seven demons out of her (Luke 8:2).
She helped support Jesus' ministry financially (Luke 8:3).
She stood by Jesus during the crucifixion (John 19:25).
She was present at His burial (Mark 15:47).
She was the first to visit the tomb (John 20:1).
She recognized Jesus by His voice (John 20:16).
She told the disciples that she had seen the Lord (John 20:18).

Quotes About Mary Magdalen

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879) – “She wept at the tomb but saw the dawn of resurrection.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Her loyalty clung to the grave, and was met by glory.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “She was the first to hear Him say her name after death lost its grip.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “She found joy at the grave because she had walked in sorrow.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “The message of life was first entrusted to the faithful heart of a woman.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Mary, once tormented, became the voice of resurrection hope.”

2. Eve – First Woman Created by God

She Came From Man’s Side

📖 Genesis 3:20 (KJV)
"And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living."

📜 Context:
Eve was the first woman, created by God as a companion for Adam. She was deceived by the serpent and ate the forbidden fruit, bringing sin into the world.

🔎 What Happened Next:
God promised redemption through her offspring. Though she bore the first consequences of sin, she also became the first mother and a vessel of God’s future promise.

Interesting Facts About Eve:

Her name means "life" or "living" (Genesis 3:20).
She was formed from Adam's rib (Genesis 2:22).
She was tempted by the serpent and ate from the tree (Genesis 3:6).
She gave birth to Cain, Abel, and Seth.
She represents the beginning of humanity.
She experienced both deep sorrow and great joy as a mother.
Her story introduced the first prophecy of Christ (Genesis 3:15).

Quotes About Ev

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Eve fell, but through her, life continued by grace.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Eve's legacy is not just sin, but the hope of deliverance.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “She reached for knowledge, but found sorrow—and the promise of grace.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “The mother of all bore both burden and blessing.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “She came from man’s side and returned with him to God’s grace.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “Where sin entered by Eve, salvation was promised through her seed.”

1. Mary - Mother of Jesus

In the Hands of a Humble Girl

📖 Luke 1:38 (KJV)
"And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her."

📜 Context:
Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel and told she would conceive the Son of God. She submitted humbly to God’s will, becoming the mother of Jesus through divine intervention.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Mary gave birth to Jesus, raised Him, witnessed His ministry, stood by the cross, and was among the early believers after the resurrection.

Interesting Facts About Mary:

She was likely a young teenager when chosen by God.
She praised God in the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55).
She traveled to Bethlehem and gave birth in a manger (Luke 2:6–7).
She pondered the words of shepherds and wise men (Luke 2:19).
She searched for Jesus as a child in the temple (Luke 2:48–51).
She was present at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1–5).
She was at the cross and entrusted to John (John 19:26–27).

About Mary Mother of Jesus

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “She bore the Word made flesh with a heart full of trust.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “Mary's yes opened the gate of hope to all mankind.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “In the hands of a humble girl, God placed His Son.”

Christina Rossetti (1830–1894) – “She held in her arms the One who holds the stars.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “The faith of Mary gives birth to the hope of nations.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “God passed by thrones and chose a lowly handmaid.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “Mary’s heart held the promise of the ages.”

51. Wise Woman of Tekoa

God Used Her Story to Unlock

📖 2 Samuel 14:20 (KJV)
"To fetch about this form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord is wise, according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all things that are in the earth."

📜 Context:
The wise woman of Tekoa was sent by Joab to tell King David a fictional story designed to soften his heart and convince him to bring back his exiled son Absalom. She used her wisdom and diplomacy to appeal to the king’s sense of justice and mercy.

🔎 What Happened Next:
David saw through the parable, realized Joab's involvement, but still granted permission for Absalom to return to Jerusalem, though not immediately into his presence.

Interesting Facts About the Wise Woman of Tekoa

She was known in her region for her wisdom and rhetorical skill.
Joab chose her specifically to deliver a sensitive political message.
Her fictional story paralleled David’s real-life dilemma.
She boldly confronted the king with compassion and insight.
David called her wisdom like “the wisdom of an angel of God.”
She contributed to national reconciliation through peacemaking.
Her story is one of the earliest biblical examples of persuasive storytelling for justice.

About This Wise Woman

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – "This woman’s parable broke the wall pride built in the king’s heart."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – "Her wise counsel, though a fiction, brought real healing to a royal house."

John Calvin (1509–1564) – "The woman of Tekoa was the mouthpiece of God’s providence."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – "Her speech showed that grace and truth can mend what strife has torn."

John Wesley (1703–1791) – "She used a woman’s voice to stir a king’s soul to mercy."

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – "Wisdom adorned her lips, and peace was the fruit."

John Owen (1616–1683) – "With subtle speech she led the king to righteousness."

52. The Witch of Endor

Even the Devil’s Tools Tremble

📖 1 Samuel 28:11 (KJV)
"Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel."

📜 Context:
In desperation, King Saul sought out a medium in Endor to summon the prophet Samuel after God had stopped speaking to him. Though divination was forbidden in Israel, the woman complied with Saul’s disguised request and was shocked when a true spirit appeared.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Samuel appeared and foretold Saul’s doom. The next day, Saul and his sons died in battle. The woman offered Saul food and shelter before he left.

Interesting Facts About the Witch of Endor

She practiced forbidden arts but showed fear when she realized Saul’s identity.
Her reaction suggested she did not expect a real spirit to appear.
She showed kindness to Saul by preparing him a final meal.
Her actions highlighted Saul’s complete spiritual decline.
This is the only Old Testament story where a medium succeeds in summoning a prophet.
The event revealed Saul’s desperation and disobedience.
It serves as a warning about seeking spiritual insight outside of God.

About Witch of Endor

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – "When Saul forsook God, he sought counsel in the shadows."

John Wesley (1703–1791) – "The witch saw more than she desired when Samuel arose."

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – "Even the devil’s tools tremble when God speaks."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – "Her trembling shows that darkness cannot handle true light."

John Calvin (1509–1564) – "God allowed this encounter, not to justify witchcraft, but to judge rebellion."

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – "She fed the doomed king with trembling hands."

Martin Luther (1483–1546) – "This moment testifies to the terror of a God-forsaken man."

D.L. Moody (1837–1899) – "Her fear proves that when God speaks, even deceivers listen."

53. Rahab the Harlot

Faith Transformed a Harlot

📖 Joshua 2:11 (KJV)
"And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the Lord your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath."

📜 Context:
Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho who hid two Israelite spies from her own city’s soldiers. She acknowledged the God of Israel as the true God and made a covenant with the spies to protect her family in exchange for her help.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Rahab’s home was spared during Jericho’s destruction. She later married Salmon, became the mother of Boaz, and was listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Interesting Facts About Rahab

Rahab is one of only five women named in Jesus’ genealogy.
She expressed great faith in God before even seeing a miracle personally.
She used a scarlet cord as the sign of her covenant, symbolizing deliverance.
Rahab's faith and actions are praised in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25.
She risked her life to protect strangers because she believed in God.
Her name means “broad” or “spacious,” possibly symbolic of grace.
She went from a life of shame to a legacy of faith.

About Huldah

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – "Faith transformed a harlot into a heroine of Israel."

John Wesley (1703–1791) – "She turned from her city’s gods to the living God of heaven and earth."

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – "Rahab’s scarlet cord is a picture of the blood of Jesus, which marks those who will be saved."

Hannah More (1745–1833) – "Her house was low, yet her faith reached high."
George Whitefield (1714–1770) – "Though once a sinner, she believed and was justified."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – "Faith found her in a fallen place and lifted her to eternal honor."
Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – "Rahab’s trust in God changed the legacy of her household forever."

54. Zeresh – Wife of Haman

He Who Plots Against the Righteous

📖 Esther 5:14 (KJV)
"Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let a gallows be made of fifty cubits high, and to morrow speak thou unto the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon..."

📜 Context:
Zeresh, wife of Haman, encouraged her husband to build gallows to execute Mordecai, the Jew. Her advice deepened Haman’s pride and accelerated his downfall.

🔎 What Happened Next:
In a dramatic turn, Haman was hanged on the very gallows he built for Mordecai, showing the consequences of pride and wicked counsel.

Interesting Facts About Zeresh:

Her name means “gold” or “riches.”
She played a direct role in plotting against the Jews.
Zeresh underestimated God's protection over His people.
Her advice revealed the danger of unchecked ambition.
The gallows were 75 feet high—a symbol of extreme pride.
She later warned Haman of his impending fall (Esther 6:13).

About Zeresh

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “A woman’s counsel may uplift or destroy—let it be anchored in righteousness.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “Pride in counsel bears bitter fruit.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “A heart that schemes against God’s people will find no shelter.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “Evil plans are short-lived in the presence of divine providence.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “He who plots against the righteous plots against his own peace.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Zeresh’s voice echoes the ruin of Haman.”

55. Salome - Mother of James and John

Ambition Must Kneel Before the Cross

📖 Matthew 20:21 (KJV)
"And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom."

📜 Context:
Salome, the mother of James and John, asked Jesus for special positions for her sons in His kingdom, revealing ambition and misunderstanding of His mission.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Jesus gently corrected her by emphasizing humility and servanthood as the true path to greatness.

Interesting Facts About Salome:

She is believed to have followed and supported Jesus (Mark 15:40–41).
Her request showed a common expectation of a political Messiah.
She misunderstood the nature of Jesus' kingdom.
Jesus used the moment to teach about servant leadership.
Her sons, James and John, were part of Jesus’ inner circle.
Despite the misstep, she remained a faithful disciple.
Salome witnessed the crucifixion and resurrection.

About Salome

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Ambition must kneel before the cross before it rises in grace.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “A mother’s love must surrender to the will of God.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “Let my sons follow Thee, not lead without Thee.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “Greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service.”

John Wesley (1703–1791) – “The desire to reign must first be crucified with Christ.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “God’s kingdom is not a place of pride but of pouring out.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “He who would be great must be least.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Christ does not censure the request, but corrects its aim.”

56. Susanna - Healed by Jesus

She Gave From Her Substance

📖 Luke 8:3 (KJV)
"And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance."

📜 Context:
Susanna was one of the women healed by Jesus who supported Him and His disciples through financial means, playing a quiet but crucial role in His ministry.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Though not mentioned further, Susanna’s generosity helped sustain Jesus’ ministry, showing the value of unseen, faithful service.

Interesting Facts About Susanna:

Her name means “lily,” a symbol of purity.
She was likely healed from illness or oppression (Luke 8:2).
She gave out of gratitude and love for Jesus.
Susanna traveled with Jesus and the disciples.
She was among the earliest female supporters of Jesus.
Her story shows the impact of giving behind the scenes.
Financial support was vital to Jesus’ traveling ministry.

About Susanna

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “She who gives to Christ gives to eternity.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “Let me serve, unseen, yet known by Thee.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “No gift to Christ is ever wasted.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “God sees the purse opened with love.”

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “To give for the gospel is to walk in grace.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “A silent supporter may hold the key to mighty miracles.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “She gave from her substance—God gave from His fullness.”

57. Zipporah – Wife of Moses

The Quiet Courage of a Woman

📖 Exodus 4:25 (KJV)
"Then Zipporah took a sharp stone, and cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet, and said, Surely a bloody husband art thou to me."

📜 Context:
Zipporah, the Midianite wife of Moses and daughter of Jethro, intervened during a mysterious incident where God sought to kill Moses. She quickly circumcised their son, fulfilling God's covenant and saving Moses’ life.

🔎 What Happened Next:
After this event, Zipporah likely returned to her father’s house with their sons. Later, she was reunited with Moses after the Exodus had begun (Exodus 18:2).

Interesting Facts About Zipporah:

She was the daughter of Jethro, priest of Midian (Exodus 2:16-21).
She married Moses while he was in exile after fleeing Egypt.
She had two sons with Moses: Gershom and Eliezer.
She acted decisively during a life-threatening moment to fulfill the covenant of circumcision.
Her actions revealed a deep understanding of Israelite covenant law.
Zipporah may have struggled with Moses' divine calling and its implications for her family.
She later reunited with Moses during the Israelites’ wilderness journey (Exodus 18:2-4).

About Zipporah

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “A mother’s hand, guided by faith, can steer the course of a nation’s leader.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – can halt death and bring obedience to life.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “The resolve of a faithful wife is the thread that binds the call of God.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “She saved her husband by covenant blood and quiet zeal.”

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – “Zipporah’s act was both bold and devout, preserving God’s chosen servant.”

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – “In Zipporah, we see providence wrapped in a mother’s decision.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “She struck the stone in obedience and broke the threat of judgment.”

58. Euodia – Early Christian Believer

When Christ’s Warriors Quarrel

📖 Philippians 4:2 (KJV)
"I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord."

📜 Context:
The Apostle Paul addressed Euodia and Syntyche, urging them to reconcile and maintain unity in their work for the gospel. This brief mention highlights their significance in the early church at Philippi.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Though Scripture doesn’t tell us more, Paul's appeal suggests their unity was crucial for the church’s harmony and testimony.

Interesting Facts About Euodia:

She was a prominent female leader in the Philippian church.
Mentioned directly by Paul—rare for women in epistles.
Her name means “prosperous journey” or “fragrance.”
She worked alongside Paul in ministry (Philippians 4:3).
Paul considered unity between her and Syntyche vital to the church.
Her story emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts among believers.
She was part of one of the earliest Christian congregations in Europe.

About Euodia

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – “When sisters in faith divide, the enemy multiplies his efforts.”

Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – “Let not our hands for God tremble because our hearts are divided.”

Hannah More (1745–1833) – “Unity is not weakness, but strength woven from humility and grace.”

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – “Harmony in service is sweeter than any hymn sung alone.”

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – “The cause of Christ suffers when our hearts stray from one another.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – “It is a shame when Christ’s warriors quarrel in the same trench.”

George Whitefield (1714–1770) – “Disagreements must not outlast our devotion.”

59. Joanna

A Quiet Giver, a Bold Believer

📖 Luke 8:3 (KJV)
"And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance."

📜 Context:
Joanna was the wife of Chuza, a high-ranking official in Herod’s court. Despite her noble status, she became a devoted follower of Jesus. She supported His ministry financially and was one of the women who discovered the empty tomb and testified of His resurrection.

🔎 What Happened Next:
Joanna was among the first to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Though she lived in the shadow of political power, she chose to serve the King of kings.

Interesting Facts About Joanna

She is one of the few named women who followed Jesus and supported His ministry.
Her husband worked in Herod Antipas’s court—yet she followed Jesus, whom Herod later mocked.
She witnessed both Jesus’ life and His resurrection.
Joanna was part of the group of women who brought spices to Jesus’ tomb.
Her name means “God is gracious.”
She is only mentioned twice in Scripture, but her legacy endures.
Her presence at the tomb makes her a key witness in the gospel accounts.

About Joanna

Elisabeth Elliot (1926–2015) – "Faithful women like Joanna remind us that obedience is often quiet—but world-changing."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) – "She ministered of her substance—how rare and noble such a heart."

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892) – "Even in Caesar’s house, the Lord has His witnesses, and Joanna was one such torchbearer."

John Wesley (1703–1791) – "She gave what she had, and stood where others fled."

Susanna Wesley (1669–1742) – "Faith shines brightest when it costs something to follow."

John Calvin (1509–1564) – "Joanna’s faith overcame the temptations of her high station."

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – "A quiet giver, a bold believer—hers was a heart set on the Savior."

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – "Her feet ran to the tomb while others cowered in doubt."