Podcasts about women of the bible

This week we talk about Miriam, Moses and Aaron's sister who helped lead the Israelite nation from exile in Egypt and through the desert. Miriam was a powerhouse woman who was courageous in Egypt, a leader for the people, and a steady force along with Moses and Aaron.Miriam is also known for her story in Numbers 12 when she and Aaron (who were grumbling about Moses and complaining about his position as leader of the trio) got mightily told off by God and she consequently was given leprosy for seven days. In this episode I reflect on why Miriam was the one to receive the physical punishment and how we find ourselves in the same sin as Miriam in our lives. Though we may know a lot about those we spend time with, we will never know them as God does. We can trust His will for them (and us), and we should never cease praying for one another as we continue on the journey. Please pray for me! I will pray for you too!

Send JKO a Text MessageHave you ever heard or even believed that people like you should not be talking? That your challenges make you unworthy to add value to anyone's life? Let's uncover the truth from the stories of Rahab, Tamar and Annie Lobert, Hookers for Christ. God doesn't wait for perfection before He uses us. He chooses you just the way you are. Nuggets of wisdom in this episode The surprising role of Rahab the harlot in God's redemption story How Tamar's bold and scandalous choices placed her in the lineage of Jesus A modern-day story of a woman whose past in sex work qualified her to minister hope and freedom to others Messy is actually a qualification References https://hookersforjesus.net/ Support the show If Messy Can't Stop Her blesses or inspires you, please consider supporting it at supportmessycantstopher.buzzsprout.com. Thank you for being part of this journey. If you would love to share your story on the #MessyCantStopHer podcast, click here to let me know. Thank you so much for listening. Music Credit: https://indiefy.me/wanted-carter

Continuing on to learn from women in the Bible, we look at Hannah, who appears in the beginning of 1 Samuel. Hannah is a beautiful example to us of faithful femininity. In her anguish of not having children, she bears her soul before the Lord in the temple and beseeches Him to grant her a child. In an exchange she offers to give her child right back to Him. When God does grant her the child she desires, she follows through with her promise and gives up the one thing she always wanted. I am grateful to Hannah for her example of detachment and reflecting on her helps me to call out what idols are in my life. I encourage you to take Hannah's story to prayer and consider what would be the most difficult thing for you to give up, should God ask. This might be an idol in your life that you need to offer to God and ask Him to help you overcome it. **CORRECTION** A psalm to pray to claim God is king is psalm 93, not psalm 91 like I mistakenly say in this episode!

The most relatable woman with the least relatable story: Queen Esther! Esther was given a role she never would have predicted and followed God's voice by simply following the guidance of her cousin, Modecai. She went through times of doubt and fear, yet eventually chose to put her life on the line for her people. Sometimes God speaks to us in small ways that we may overlook. Esther reminds us that God can speak through trusted family and friends and that we only have the job of being faithful. When we are overwhelmed with our responsibilities as mothers, wives, etc. we can look to Esther to know that God can make our small, flawed efforts extraordinary. He only needs our "yes!"

Our Top 10 Question this week is a good one: Who are the women of the bible and why are they so important for us to know? We won’t rehash the recent sermon about gender roles and differences; yet, the truth is that often religion has failed to recognize the importance of women in the Biblical story, and the beauty of their inclusion in God’s mission and purposes. In some ways, the inclusion of women in the story would have been scandalous and a reason for rejection by some in ancient cultures. Yet, God in His infinite glory and wisdom has chosen to include so many amazing women in His grand redemption story, and many of these women are pivotal as leaders, movers, teachers, and shapers of culture. Their stories remind us that everyone is created in God’s image, has purpose, and has a wonderful role to play in the story of God in the world. Furthermore, their stories are unique—a great reminder that God’s call and purpose reaches each of us where we are. He chooses to include us and use our unique humanity and gifts in amazing and miraculous ways. And finally, these stories remind us that the women in our churches are so valuable and wonderful as God continues to tell His story through unique, yet broken, lives to display His glory.

Today we think about Anna, the prophetess who got to witness the presentation of Jesus at the temple. This holy woman does not have much about her in the Bible, but we can tell that she was a prayerful woman who, though she had experienced hardship, never gave up on seeking God. She was granted the gift of meeting Jesus and proclaiming His identity to those around her. May we all have enough openness in our hearts to welcome whatever God puts in our way and to have the relationship with Him that we may recognize Him when we see Him. Anna models a life of prayer that molded her relationship with God. If you have had trouble hearing God's voice in the past, check out The Lila Rose Show episode 218 where Jonna Schuster lays out a methodical way of prayer and hearing God's voice in various ways.

this episode, we explore the powerful story of Mary Magdalene, one of the most prominent women in the Bible. Drawing from the gospel accounts, we unpack how Jesus delivered her from the grip of demonic oppression—liberating her not just spiritually, but also emotionally, mentally, and physically. In response to this radical transformation, Mary chose a life of unwavering devotion, offering her time, talents, service, and resources to follow and support Jesus.We also examine the deep, often-overlooked interdependence between the disciples and the women who traveled with them—highlighting how these women played vital roles in sustaining and advancing Jesus' earthly ministry. Mary's faithfulness is profoundly honored when Jesus appears to her first after His resurrection, entrusting her with the message of His victory—a remarkable moment of divine affirmation and grace.Mary Magdalene's story becomes a mirror of our own: rescued, redeemed, and called to live a life wholly devoted to Christ. Her journey reminds us that our love for Him flows from His great love for us—the One who saves, restores, and rewards those who follow Him diligently with devotion. Christ see us in our suffering, He longs to rescue us to a life of relationship with Him now and in eternity.

I'm starting a new solo series about women from the Bible! Learning from them--their wisdom and their mistakes. Today we talk about one of my very favorites, Martha. She gets a bad rap sometimes, because she comes to Jesus complaining about her sister, Mary, but I believe that Jesus' love for Martha comes through in the story as He invites her to not worry so much about solving problems and to simply come and be with Him. In this episode I share ways that I relate with Martha and how Jesus is currently inviting me to choose "the better part" by simply choosing Him. Let us not get so focused on the specific problems in our lives that we miss the ultimate solution--God Himself. Join me in future weeks for reflections on other amazing women of the Bible.

In this episode, we dissect the lives of Mary and Martha, two sisters who approached Jesus in radically different ways. Through their stories, we uncover the powerful truth that Jesus values *all* expressions of faith. Whether you're a task-oriented leader or a quiet contemplative, this episode will equip you to understand and embrace your unique spiritual gifts. Ever wondered if you're "doing enough" in your faith? The lives of Mary and Martha, two sisters who teach us that there's no one "right" way to connect with Jesus. Jesus lovingly embraces both Martha's driven nature and Mary's quiet devotion. When Martha seems to have misplaced priorities, Jesus lovingly and gently steers her aright.Whether you're a busy bee or a reflective soul, you'll find encouragement and practical wisdom in this episode as we unravel the complexities of Mary and Martha, two iconic women of the Bible. Martha being a doer, Mary a listener. Yet both had faith, approached Jesus in different and individual ways and Jesus had a relationship with both of them evidenced by their exchanges.Discover how Jesus responds to both women with love and acceptance, proving that our individuality is a gift, not a barrier to faith. We also learn that sometimes we can put obstacles in our own Journey. Though both women had faith in Jesus to heal their brother, and raise him at the resurrection, they didn't think Jesus could/would raise him there and then. And when Jesus' asked for the stone to be rolled away, their first reaction is one of protest because the body would be in decay. However, on Jesus' instruction, they obeyed and rolled the stone away and Jesus raised Lazurus! How much more will we do for us, if we will only obey, not because we don't have doubts, big in spite of our doubts. This episode will challenge your assumptions. Listen today and find encouragement for your faith journey!

In this episode, I speak with Wife, Mom, Literary Agent, Podcaser at the PrayEveryDay Show, Scripture Artist, Speaker, and Author on her new book Most Overlooked Women of the Bible. Listen as Mary shares on how your longing to be noticed does not define who you are in Christ. Learn how women in scripture can teach you how to remedy your own self doubt and feelings of being devalued. Mary urges women to consider that being behind the scenes can be a position of great significance.  Find Mary :    the website Listen to FBH on Humble Beginnings Ep. 201 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.   Titus 2:3-5 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.   Proverbs 22:4 Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.   Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosperyou and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.   Ruth 3:11 And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.   Additional Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:1-27, Colossians 3:12, Philippians 4:19, 2 Timothy 1:7,  REGISTER @ CFLEX Academy Arts Enrichment   Listen to our sister podcast:  Abundantly Rooted   Other Resourses: Join the Abundantly Rooted Life Community email to receive encouragement and updates   Grab your Artza Subscription Box and bring home a bit of Israel.  use promo code: ARTZAKRISTINARISINGER for 25% off   Check out our Linktree   Get the Books:  Life After Losing A Loved One: How to Turn Grief Into Hope Strength and Purpose Adventures of LiLy and Izzy Bee: The Imagination Journey 

The Complicated Lives of Enslaved Women of the Bible An Interview with Dr. Christy Cobb Bible readers tend to skip over the stories of enslaved people because they seem to be treated as props for the ‘real' meaning or main message of the biblical account. But a closer look at the lives of these marginalized enslaved people in the stories—such as sex workers who were might have been sold to brothels against their will—enriches our understanding of the Bible. Recognizing the invisible attitudes and forces help us rethink the stories' meanings. Dr. Christy Cobb is an Assistant Professor of Christianity in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Denver, and she is also an Affiliated Faculty in the Gender/Women's Studies Department. She is a biblical scholar with a focus on the New Testament and early Christian texts, and her scholarship and teaching focuses on issues of slavery, gender, and sexuality in antiquity, and she writes on texts such as Acts, the Gospels, the Apocryphal Acts, and other ancient narratives. ​ Full transcript available here: https://earlychristiantexts.com/enslaved-bible-women/

new Challenge

Welcome to Season Two of Hippie Sunday School Podcast!After a year of life happening, Jen and Andrea are back! The ladies will be featuring a monthly podcast with Preacher. Patty Hall to focus on one "Unnamed Woman of the Bible." Patty sat down with the ladies to discuss the culture of female preachers and returning to seminary school in her 40's. Did you know in 2026 the Methodist church will celebrate 70 years of women be able to preach? In this episode, the ladies discussed "The Woman in the Well" Photini. Preacher Patty takes you on a jourey of a remarkable woman devoted to her faith and courage. Unfortunately, most writings about her focused on how many times she was married. Yet, she died a martyr.St. Photini can be celebrated on February 26th. Prayer to St. Photini: "Illuminated by the Holy Spirit, All Glorious One, from Christ the Saviour you drank the water of salvation. With open hand you give it to those who thirst. Great Martyr Photini, Equal to the Apostles, pray to Christ for the salvation of our souls."The ladies finish the show discussing the "Last Meeting Theory."

In this episode, Associate Pastor Jason White continues a series entitled Women of the Bible! Each episode will include a special guest. This week's special guest is Janie Sims. In this episode, Janie shares one of her favorite stories of the Bible, about Abigail from 1 Samuel.We hope you are encouraged and blessed!Revival Talks is a series of discussions where staff from our church and members of our community sit down and talk about various topics in light of what is going on in our church, our community, and our world.For more information about our church visit us on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube.Support the show

Send us a textAuthor, speaker and podcaster Laura Smith is back on the podcast--one of my favorite people and a wonderful writer of GREAT books!  She joins us for a compelling conversation about her fourteenth book, "Brave Woman, Mighty God," which explores the stories of 30 women in the Bible and the courage they displayed in both extraordinary and everyday situations.Laura is giving our listeners a FREE chapter of her book to preview. Here's the link to the chapter:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1frn0C6IIlTIw3hhVIPEa5kS04ivNobL0ZNXy1bFUKIU/editAbout Laura and our conversation:• She is the author of 14 books including "Holy Care for the Whole Self," and "How Sweet the Sound"• Committed to helping people understand how deeply they are loved by God• Shares her journey from childhood trauma to discovering her worth in Christ• Explains how the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in believers today• Discusses how small acts of bravery can have profound impacts• Tells the story of Huldah, an obscure biblical woman who was known for her faith during a time of widespread idol worship• Explores how we can "exude the love of Christ" so others know they can come to us• Shares the story of Zarephath's Widow and the lesson of God's abundant provision• Reveals how writing books deepens her own faith as God teaches her through the process• Discusses her podcast "Brave Woman, Mighty God" and available resourcesFind Laura at https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ or @laurasmithauthor on Instagram, where you can access free chapters of her books and other helpful resources. Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential Learn more at StephanieNelson.comFollow us on Instagram @stephanie_nelson_cmFollow us on Facebook at CouponMom

Today's message comes from 1 Kings 17:6-24. Join us as we celebrate all God has done this month and those getting Baptized!

In this episode, Associate Pastor Jason White continues a new series entitled Women of the Bible! Each episode will include a special guest. This week's special guest is Lindsey Ricketts. In this episode, Lindsey shares one of her favorite stories of the Bible, about the Proverbs 31 woman.We hope you are encouraged and blessed!Revival Talks is a series of discussions where staff from our church and members of our community sit down and talk about various topics in light of what is going on in our church, our community, and our world.For more information about our church visit us on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube.Support the show

Today's message comes from Exodus 2:1-10. Join us as we learn to make the most of where we are at! #Unified #LeadUsLORD #LUC

In this episode, Associate Pastor Jason White continues a new series entitled Women of the Bible! Each episode will include a special guest. This week's special guest is Annie Miller. In this episode, Annie shares one of her favorites stories of the Bible, about Mary Magdalene.We hope you are encouraged and blessed!Revival Talks is a series of discussions where staff from our church and members of our community sit down and talk about various topics in light of what is going on in our church, our community, and our world.For more information about our church visit us on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube.Support the show

This Sunday, Sonia Waters brings us a message on, “Women of the Bible”.Notes can be found in the YouVersion app under Events. (Available for a week only, so click “save” if you want for later.)To learn more about Thrive and to see all our upcoming events visit our website: https://www.livewithpurpose.church/SOCIALS:ThriveCCAthensFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThriveCCAthens/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveccathens/GIVING:Giving Online: https://www.livewithpurpose.church/giveGiving By Mail: 610 ½ Old Tyler Highway Athens, Texas 75751

Send us a textIs Proverbs 31 a blueprint for the perfect woman—or something more?In this special message, Pastor Nicole takes us beyond the surface of this often-misunderstood passage. With wisdom, grace, and humor, she invites us to see Proverbs 31 not as a checklist of expectations, but as a celebration of faithfulness, strength, and character—qualities that reflect the image of God in us all.Whether you've felt pressured by unrealistic standards or simply long to live with greater purpose, this sermon is for you. Discover how God meets us in the everyday, calls out our worth, and equips us to live lives that matter.Take a deep breath, lean in, and be encouraged. You're more than enough in the hands of a faithful God.Linkoln shares his story on why he started coming to Ravenna Church of the Nazarene and shares why you should consider doing the same.Ravenna Church of the Nazarene530 Main Street, Ravenna, KY 40472Enjoy this message? Consider visiting Ravenna Church of the Nazarene where Pastor Jason is the Senior Pastor. Have a prayer need? Want to share something with Pastor Jason? Email rav.naz.ky@gmail.comHelp spread the gospel through this podcast by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode.

Three amazing Moms from our Warren Campus encourage us with the lives of three amazing women in Jesus' lineage- Ruth, Rahab, and Mary.  Thank you to Stephanie Shaw, Gabby Roberts, and Gina Cameneti.

Three amazing Moms from our BC Boardman Campus encourage us with the lives of three amazing women in Jesus' lineage- Ruth, Rahab, and Mary. Thank you to Janie Morris, Roshni DeStefano, and Teri Zuppo

Deborah, Jael, and Mary the mother of Jesus are each significant women in their work for the Kingdom of God. Pastor Kirk helps us understand as he opens up the book of Judges, chapters 4 and 5, and the Gospels and the story of Mary.visit us at: conejochurch.com

Join us today for a Special Mother's Day service! We will be reading from 1 Samuel 25 learning from the life of Abigail. #Unified #LUC

In this episode, Associate Pastor Jason White continues a new series entitled Women of the Bible! Each episode will include a special guest. This week's special guest is Associate Pastor Angie Drummonds. In this episode, Pastor Angie shares one of her favorites stories of the Bible, about Deborah, the prophetess and judge from Judges 4 and 5!We hope you are encouraged and blessed!Revival Talks is a series of discussions where staff from our church and members of our community sit down and talk about various topics in light of what is going on in our church, our community, and our world.For more information about our church visit us on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube.Support the show

Today's message comes from Joshua 2. Join us as we see God is still writing our story.

In this episode, Associate Pastor Jason White begins a new series entitled Women of the Bible! Each episode will include a special guest. This week's special guest is Associate Pastor Amanda Allums. In this episode, Pastor Amanda shares her favorite story, about the Sidonian widow!We hope you are encouraged and blessed!Revival Talks is a series of discussions where staff from our church and members of our community sit down and talk about various topics in light of what is going on in our church, our community, and our world.For more information about our church visit us on our website, our Facebook page, and our YouTube.Support the show

Have you ever wondered about what Mary Magdalene might have been like? Join Carol McLeod on today's episode for a rich conversation with author Jill Eileen Smith, whose most recent book is titled ‘Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene's Story'. Jill is the bestselling and award-winning author of many biblical novels, including her first series The Wives of King David. After twenty years of closed doors, she has now published 24 books, fiction and non-fiction, and had one of those books optioned for film. She loves Jesus and His Word and all things related to learning more about the culture and times of the people of the Book, particularly the women, whom God has immortalized there. Listen in to learn about Jill and her exploration of Mary Magdalene's story!Order Dawn of Grace: (Historical Biblical Fiction New Testament Story of Mary Magdalene) at https://a.co/d/9Yy4wMM Connect with Carol at https://www.carolmcleodministries.com/ or email her at carolmcleod@carolmcleodministries.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolmcleodministriesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolmcleodministriesYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQE6z9U5VR9tjoJB1NAsgMw

Heather is joined by Mary DeMuth, speaker, podcast host, and author of more than thirty books including her latest, "The Most Overlooked Women of the Bible." (Amazon affiliate link.) Heather and Mary talk about how feeling overlooked can connect to aging and why and how we may feel we're losing our "shine" as we get older. Mary offers encouragement around being honest about the grief and loss of aging and discusses the helpful tool of lament. Mary also shares stories of some of her favorite overlooked women from the Bible and what we can learn from them. Listen to other conversations with Mary DeMuth here: Leah and Misunderstood Women of the Bible: https://omny.fm/shows/compared-to-who/leah-and-other-misunderstood-women-of-bible-feat-m Body Image and Sexual Abuse: https://omny.fm/shows/compared-to-who/body-image-sexual-abuse-hope-healing-resources-for Connect with Compared to Who? and get our Aging April resource plus other freebies - like the new Mirror Fast Bible Study, here: https://wwwimprovebodyimage.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Feeling Overlooked? You're Not Alone.Have you ever felt unseen, unheard, or on the outside looking in? You're not alone. Many of us carry the weight of feeling invisible, wondering if our presence truly matters. But did you know the Bible is filled with women who felt the same way?In this episode, we dive into the stories of biblical women who wrestled with rejection, loneliness, and feeling overlooked. Their experiences reveal powerful truths—reminding us that God sees us, hears us, and calls us by name.We'll explore questions like:Why do I feel invisible in my own life?How can I move past the pain of rejection?What does it mean to be "seen" in a world obsessed with visibility?Through these deeply relatable stories, you'll discover how to embrace your worth, find your voice, and rest in the truth that you are fully known by God.Inspired by The Most Overlooked Women of the Bible by Mary E. DeMuth, this conversation will encourage you to step into the life God has for you—one where you are seen, heard, and deeply loved.Listen now and be reminded: You are never overlooked in God's eyes.https://www.marydemuth.com/about/Amazon: https://a.co/d/g1gEB5M

Episode Summary: In celebration of International Women’s Day, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women across the globe, this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective shines a light on some of the most inspiring women in the Bible. From Leah’s resilience in the face of rejection to Deborah’s fearless leadership, these women modeled faith and hope that transcend time and culture. As we explore their lives, we are reminded that the greatest advocate for equality and empowerment is Jesus, whose grace offers freedom to live courageously and faithfully. Join me with Rev. Jessica Van Roekel as we reflect on these timeless examples of strength and hope, and learn how they inspire us to live with faith and purpose today. Quotables from the episode: The greatest proponent of equality is Jesus, and we can only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. He broke barriers between humanity and God, people groups, and genders. It’s when we live apart from him that we experience disparity. We're all equivalent at the foot of the cross and we can really only know the kind of freedom he brings when we receive his saving grace and live for him. You know Jesus broke barriers between humanity and God between people groups and genders and it's when we live apart from him that we really experience disparity. We can trace that through the old and new Testament. In fact, some influential and powerful women throughout the Bible are, you mentioned her Leah, she stayed strong through heartache and rejection. We had Jacobad, the mother of Moses, Abra led Israelites as a judge and prophetess for 40 years. Esther had the courage to say yes to God and in doing so she saved her people. Mary the mother of Jesus shows us how to have the courage to surrender completely. Then we have Ruth and Mary Bethany. These women were in a very male dominated society but God elevated them to positions of leadership. Sarah became my example of faith in the face of fear. She messed up and I messed up. And I think that's what I love so much about her is because she messed up royally. I mean, she created a whole mess with Ishmael and Isaac. She couldn't wait for God to fulfill his promise to her. And yet he did eventually, but she made this big mess. And yet she's still touted as a woman of faith in the Hall of, you know, Hebrews 11, the Hall of Fame chapter. She is our example of not to give into fear. And I think it's because of her faith, even in the midst of making so many mistakes. I would have to say that one of the women in the Bible who has inspired me the most was the woman at the well. You know, she lived a rejected life. She lived her life apart from other people. She had plenty of sins where she had messed up and yet I love that scripture says that Jesus had to go that way. He had to encounter her. And when he talked about her sin, it wasn't in a demeaning way, but it was to let her know, "Oh, I know so much more, and yet I'm still here with you. I'm still going against societal norms to have a conversation with you." And he revealed himself to her as Messiah and gave her hope to the point that she left and went and told people that she had met the Messiah. And so that's such a good example for me because I don't know about you, but when I've messed up, sometimes I don't even wanna go to God and tell Him, but He already knows. He already knows and it's a safe place. Jesus validated her when he said, "Go in peace. Your faith has made you well." In that, he gave her back her identity. He esteemed her. He loved her. And we don't even know her name, Jessica, but her story encourages us today and it encourages me to keep pursuing after Jesus when I've tried everything else. Jesus is the one place I need to go. Oh, yes. She is a wonderful example of we can feel so set aside. Unseen. Unseen. Rejected. And yet God elevated her. He saw her. He called her to go go into the fact that she believed that Jesus was her only hope and she pushed against the crowd. Leadership doesn't always mean, it doesn't always mean leading your family. It doesn't always mean leading in business. I think leadership, if we expand on that concept, means using our gifts to influence. And our gifts might be the gift of hospitality. It might be the gift of mercy. It might be the gift of compassion or encouragement, but when we use our God -given gifts to influence others, that is assuming a leadership role. Since Old Testament times, the idea of setting boundaries between men and women has been challenged. God has always placed women in leadership positions. Influential and powerful women exist throughout the Bible. Some inspiring women of the Bible include: Leah—strong through heartache and rejection Jochebed—mother of Moses Deborah—prophetess and judge of Israel (40Years) who inspired complete obedience to God Esther—courage to be bold, say yes to God and save her people Mary—trust and courage to surrender completely Miriam—our words matter Rahab—knowing God protects us Ruth—selflessness and seeking God leads to our betterment Priscilla—help each other mature in our faith Mary Magdalene—the power of a submitted heart Rachel—the power of patience to wait on God Hannah—God prizes faithfulness Abigail—equipped for wisdom Martha—God equips us to use our practical gifts Hagar—God gives us strength to move forward Anna—keep watch for God’s works Lydia—grow in love for God for others Rebekah—know that God’s plans are always good Many of the inspiring women of the Bible encourage us to know our strengths, use our influence as an invitation to know God, lead by example and lead with love. Our hardships don’t preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. One of the key commonalities between all of these women is that they did face hardships. So my hope filled perspective is this, that hardships don't preempt us from living a life of faith and hope. They actually propel us toward faith and hope when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. That's so important because I think in our culture, we look at hardships and Lord. We're doing everything that we can that's right. Jesus told us we would experience hardships. - He did. Read though for the accounts of the women in scripture and how they modeled getting through those hardships and the lessons that they teach us. And there have been so many as we listed off some of the other women that we didn't have time to really talk about in depth today. We would encourage you pick one or two of those women's accounts and go study them for yourself. Scripture References: Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” 1 Peter 3:6 “For instance, Sarah obeyed her husband, Abraham, and called him her master. You are her daughters when you do what is right without fear of what your husbands might do.” Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fr. Mike walks us through the signing of the covenant in Nehemiah 10 and relates Israel's collective decision to belong to God to our personal encounters with God that inspire us to follow him simply because he has called us. He also offers insight on how God used the physical weakness of Esther to move the king's heart to gentleness. Today's readings are Nehemiah 10, Esther 15, 6-7, and Proverbs 21:13-16. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.