If you were asked to give a short description of Tamar, Rahab, or Ruth, what words would you chose? The list might include, foreigner, prostitute, sneaky, or brazen. So, why do biblical writers hold these flouters of convention up as women of faith and outstanding examples of godliness? Why were these women listed in Matthew’s lineage of Jesus?

These women didn’t fit the wife-and-mother definition of godliness. Even though they (eventually) embraced traditional beliefs and tried to live inside those parameters, events trampled their hopes and expectations. In response they were daring, took matters into their own hands, and often played a leadership role in their interactions with men.

Many of us are wives and mothers, some are single parents, and some are simply single. We may have careers, provide supplemental income, struggle to make ends meet, or survive on the welfare of others. Our churches may give us one set of rules, contemporary culture suggest another, and circumstances throw everything out of whack. How can the term “biblical women” fit all the sizes and shapes of women today?

I believe the Bible shows us that a woman’s identity and purpose are based on her relationahip with God. Married or single, rich or poor, unable to conceive or a mother of six—God has a vision for each woman that encompasses all of our diversity.

Less Than a Widow came out of my desire to know Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth; to see what brought them to faith; and to hear what God has to tell me through their stories.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

• Read 1 Peter 3:4. Is “a quiet and gentle spirit” the only thing the Bible has to say about women?
• Is the definition of righteousness the same for a man as it is for a woman?
• Has there been a time when struggles in your life raised questions about yourself or about your relationship with God?
• Read Psalm 13. Were your questions similar to David’s cries? What answers about God did David expect to find?
• Describe the reasons Ruth had to fear and dread the future. Are you facing a situation now that fills you with dread? What do you know about God that offers you hope no matter what lays ahead?