Little Women?

 "How wonderful is it that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." ~Anne Frank

It's National Women's History Month- what a great time to peek at the women in the Bible who lived their seemingly little lives, with faith in a big God, not knowing that we would be encouraged and inspired by them centuries later.  

Ruth - a woman of incredible loyalty and devotion; determined to stay by her mother-in-law's side as they navigate the painful loss of both of their husbands.   She honors her MIL with her daily faithfulness, putting her own desires last, trusting in the God that Naomi showed her, though not raised in faith herself.  From her lineage came King David, and our Lord. 

Ruth in the Fields, Merle Hugues, 1876

What can we learn from her?   Being faithful in the seemingly small acts of kindness is rewarded by God.  She didn't become obsessed with what others thought of her.

Hannah - trusted God for the desires of her heart, and acted on her gratitude with huge sacrifice, devoting her son Samuel to God, who made him a prophet.  She was patiently honest with God in her prayers, persistent in bringing her requests to him.  

Samuel Dedicated by Hannah at the Temple, Frank W.W. Topham

What can we learn from her?  Be honest with God; He knows the desires of our hearts anyway, but, like Hannah, lay them at His feet so we can remember who is ultimately in control of them.  She was a woman of her word, full of integrity, even when it cost her.

Deborah - held a position as an esteemed judge of Israel (in fact the only female judge mentioned in the Bible).  She used her leadership talents, was wise and fair, courageous as a military leader as she went into battle for her people, Israel.  

  

What can we learn from her?  She humbly acknowledged her skills were gifts from God, used for His purposes, to give glory to Him.  As a leader, she was a servant to people.

This world idolizes people for some pretty superficial things, but God says:

 "Don't be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes.  You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." 1 Pet 3:3-4

Ladies, we've been given special gifts: some of us are relational, or nurturing, or leaders, or extroverts, or teachers, or listeners, or athletes, or encouragers.  We are significant and used by God for this time in His timeline.  We are valued, equipped and called.  

Be faithful in small things, because we serve a majestic God who uses them for big things!

✙ Dear Lord, You designed each one of us with a special plan for our life, and then You equip us with Your armor for that plan.  Open our eyes and ears to what our mission is, and give us the faith we need to carry it out.  Thank You for the privilege of being Your daughters in this world.  Amen.