Apr 12

The Wise Woman of Tekoah

Biblical Women Comments Off

II Samuel 14:13-14

And the woman said, Wherefore then hast thou thought such a thing against the people of God? for the king doth speak this thing as one which is faulty, in that the king doth not fetch home again his banished. For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him.

Absalom was King David’s third son (II Samuel 3:3), and he was the most handsome young man without a blemish (II Samuel 14:25). David’s oldest son Amnon, involved in an evil act against Absalom’s Sister Tamar. Absalom avenged his sister Tamar by killing Amnon, his half-brother. After this, Absalom fled and went to Geshur and was there three years (II Samuel 13:38). King David’s soul longed for Absalom but the King forbid his son’s re-entry into Jerusalem.

Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was the captain of King David’s army. He perceived that the King’s heart was toward Absalom (II Samuel 14:1) although he was guilty of fratricide. In a way, David banished his son Absalom from entering the kingdom and did not extend his grace for the return of his son. Joab came up with a plan to fetch home King David’s banished son, Absalom. He appointed a wise woman from Tekoah and put the right words in her mouth to explain King David the importance of bringing Absalom back into Jerusalem.

The wise woman of Tekoah feigned herself as a widow mourning the loss of her husband and one of her two sons. She narrated a story wherein her two sons revolted against each other and one slew the other. The whole family rose up against her to deliver her only living son so that they could kill him. She won the favor of the King to protect her only heir, who alone has the potential to leave her husband his name. The King promised that he will not allow one hair of her son to fall to the earth. Having won King’s favor, she sought his permission to speak unto the king.

She boldly says that by judging this the king was guilty for not bringing home his son Absalom. She brought home the point that King has to make an effort to bring back his banished son. She further explains that one day every human being has to die. We are all like water spilled on ground that cannot be gathered again. But God doesn’t operate that way. He gathers us back even when we go astray.  Adam and Eve committed the sin of not heeding the commandment of God to refrain from eating the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. By disobeying God they committed what is called “SIN”. Sin separates man from God. They were banished from the beautiful Garden of Eden by doing so. Although all our actions are only worthy of separation from God, God still loves us so much that He longs to see us abiding with Him forever. God so loved us that He sent His only begotten son, Jesus Christ so that we could be united with God forever. Christ paid the price on the Cross once for all, for the entire human race so that we through Him might gain eternal life. God’s plan of salvation brings us (the banished from the beautiful Garden of Eden) back in communion with God eternally!

The Wise Woman of Tekoah says, “For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him.” This speaks that this wise woman discerned the heart of God, His love for us, His enormous grace unto us, and His desire to bring us in unison with Him. She articulated her speech so well that she was able to home in on the mission, just perfectly. Joab chose the woman who was best fit for this mission. This woman was the mouth of God to King David and is also unto us. She carried the message of salvation in this simple speech. God is not a respector of persons (Romans 2:11) and that His will is that none should perish but that everyone should come to the knowledge of repentance and embrace the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ! Will you be the mouth of God to the people around you?

We all should be the mouth of God by speaking the words of life to everyone, we should be the hands of God by helping those in need, we should see each other with the eyes of Jesus Christ, we should refrain from evil thoughts and our entire being will be transformed by God if we yield to His work in our lives. Yes, we are all human beings that are prone to wander from our First Love (God), yet when we reflect on God, He will expose the areas of our lives that need God’s refining process. Are you yielding to God by resisting the enemy (Satan) or are you resisting God and yielding to the enemy? This message spoke to my heart directly and I long to die to my flesh everyday so that the Spirit of God will manifest in me. Lord, have your way in me and in all of us! Selah…

Mar 06

Sarah Gave Birth to Isaac

Biblical Women Comments Off

Genesis 21:1-6

 And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken. For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him. And Abraham called the name of his son that was born unto him, whom Sarah bare to him, Isaac. And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac being eight days old, as God had commanded him. And Abraham was an hundred years old, when his son Isaac was born unto him. And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.

The Almighty God is a promise-keeper! If He has promised us something, even though it doesn’t come to pass right away, it sure will come to pass in God’s time. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.” No man can find out the awesome work God does from the beginning to the end. Look at Genesis 21:1, it starts out saying “And the LORD visited Sarah as He had said and the LORD did unto Sarah as He had spoken”.

Sarah conceived and bare Abraham a son in his old age at the set time of which God spoke to Abraham. The set time is mentioned in Genesis 17:21 where it says, “But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year.” When Abraham and Sarah had their son they both were well stricken in age. They had no hope in having a child at this age, yet God kept His promise and the promise came through at God’s appointed time. Abraham called his son Isaac just as God said (Genesis 17:19). Abraham kept the covenant between God and himself by circumcising his son Isaac when he was eight days old.

God truly made Sarah to laugh and rejoice just as Mary rejoiced in God her savior (Luke 1:46-47). See how beautifully Lord God blessed Abraham and Sarah in His time! Do you trust the Lord for everything and in everything? His promises to His children are all in the Word of God. If God said He will do it, He will! Put your whole-hearted trust in Him and do not entertain an iota of doubt. If it seems like an aeon has passed by and yet you are waiting on Him to see His promise fulfilled, just rejoice in Him, He will come through!

Next: Jehovah-jireh

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Jan 24

From Sarai to Sarah

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Genesis 17:15-16

 And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be. And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her.

God made a covenant with Abram and called him Abraham instead of Abram. The covenant that God established with Abraham was that God will make Abraham a father of many nations. God established His covenant with Abraham and his seed and promised to be a God unto Abraham and his seed. Also God said He will give unto Abraham and his seed the land wherein he is a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession. God said He will be their God. God also asked Abraham to His covenant and that every male child should be circumcised. Yes, the God of Abraham will be our God as well and He desires that our hearts be circumcised. Today He is our God through Jesus Christ. When we commune with God, He exposes any sin in our life and when we rend our hearts we shall be forgiven and made whole. The blood of Jesus cleanses our hearts and sets us free. We cannot free ourselves by our own deeds or by our own goodness but by Jesus Christ God’s only son are we set free. In Romans 2:29 Paul says, “But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” What God desires of us is the circumcision of the heart, in the spirit!

At the same time that God established this covenant with Abraham, He promised to give a son unto Abraham through Sarah. Sarai, Abraham’s wife was called Sarah from that point forward. God promised to bless her and give Abraham a son through Sarah. Sarah was going to be a mother of nations and kings of people shall be born from her. Abraham was an hundred years old while Sarah was ninety. For Abraham and Sarah this looked impossible. But, with God all things are possible!

God is a God of all flesh and everything is possible for Him. Human mind cannot perceive, scientists cannot prove, doctors cannot understand but God is all powerful and can do what our feeble minds cannot figure out. He is the Creator of the Universe, the many galaxies, and many planets, asteroids, stars, meteors, comets within each galaxy are positioned in place and everything functions in its right order because the Creator is in control of these. He who controls the Universe is also in control of our body which is intricately made. No matter what, when God establishes a covenant, He keeps it! If today you are claiming a promise of God and that seems impossible to you, just believe and go forward with the promise of God. He keeps His promises. If you are facing a serious trial, know that He will walk you through your trial and provide His amazing grace by covering you under His protective wings. Psalm 91:4 says, “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” Amen!

Next: Sarah Gave Birth to Isaac

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Jan 19

Huldah, the Wife of Shallum

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II Kings 22:12-20

And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king’s, saying, Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is written concerning us. So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her. And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched. But to the king of Judah which sent you to enquire of the LORD, thus shall ye say to him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, As touching the words which thou hast heard; Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the LORD. Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.

Here we see King Josiah when he realized the great wrath of the Lord that should befall Judah because of how they heard not the words of the Law of Moses repents and receives the Lord’s blessings. This book was only read on special occasions or so it appears. King Josiah however had it read for him and was eager to enquire of the Lord for him, for the people and for all Judah concerning the words of the book. For us today our standard is the Word of God and we should enquire of the Lord at every step of our life. Our prayers will definitely be heard, we will be forgiven and our lands will be healed. The Lord is available to us who seek His face. II Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

King Josiah sent his favored men: Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah to enquire of the Lord and they went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum. Shallum was the keeper of the wardrobe and did not hold a noble position in the kingdom. Huldah lived in Jerusalem and she was married to Shallum. An ordinary woman she was and yet was gifted with the powerful gift of prophecy. Lord bestowed it on her and her gift was recognized in that land and King’s men came to enquire of her. Her words were the words of the Lord God and how gifted was that land and how wonderful it is to see that the people of the land took advantage of this gifted woman. A King who held the highest position in the kingdom sought the Lord and sent messengers to bring back the message of the Lord. How much more should we commune with the Lord, seek His face continually, be in His mighty presence and consult Him in our life’s journey? Also, Huldah put her gift to use and for the benefit of her land; are we using the spiritual gifts that God has given us? We should not consider a spiritual gift bestowed on us as frivolous. James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”

Huldah spoke the words of the Lord in truth and in love. She said to the King’s men “Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched.” Huldah said that the Lord shall bring evil upon Judah and upon the inhabitants of Judah for a reason. The people have forsaken the Lord, worshipped other Gods simply going against the Lord’s very first commandment. Do we have any idols in our heart that we have placed before God? Time to introspect and see if we have any placed anything or anybody before God in our lives. If so, let us give the God of glory the first place in our hearts that He alone deserves. Hebrews 10:31 says, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” While there is still time let us repent, turn from our wicked ways and surrender our lives unto our Creator!

Huldah also said to the King’s messengers to take back a wonderful message unto King Josiah. Her message to King Josiah was: “Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the LORD. Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place.” The Lord God is full of tender mercies and loving kindness. He sees the heart of the man, the cry of such a heart is heard and His forgiveness is always available unto us. The Lord saw the tender and humble heart of King Josiah. He saw his broken spirit and contrite heart. So, all that the Lord spoke will befall Judah and its inhabitants will not happen in King Josiah’s time. He pardoned the King, the people and the land from such a desolation and curse because of King’s repentance.

Yes, He readily forgives us and accepts us just as we are if we repent of our sins! Godly sorrow works repentance to salvation (II Corinthians 7:10). Though our sins are red as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow (Isaiah 1:18). What this means is that He will wipe out all our sins with the precious blood of Jesus that was shed for our sakes 2010 years ago. His grace is all encompassing. So, if you are wondering if ever your sin as dark as it may seem to you will ever be forgiven, take heart! Yes, it will be forgiven. Remember where sin abounded, grace did much more abound (Romans 5:20). See how wonderfully God heard Josiah’s sincere cry and blessed him saying that he shall not see any evil and shall go to grave in peace. This is the same kind of blessing He gives to any who repents with a true heart! Let us seek His forgiveness and repent with all our hearts and turn away from any darkness in our lives. Grab His wonderful blessings and enjoy the eternal life!

Next: From Sarai to Sarah

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Jan 12

Eunice and Lois

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II Timothy 1:5-6

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. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

Eunice is Timothy’s mother while Lois is his grandmother. These two women always impress me every time I read about their faith. Lois and Eunice had unfeigned faith. “Unfeigned” means sincere and genuine faith. There is no fake representation in such unfeigned faith. This faith is unshakeable and does not get upset no matter how the circumstances look like. This same unfeigned faith that was in Timothy’s grandmother and mother was in Timothy as well. Paul is speaking that he is calling to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in Timothy. Paul addresses Timothy as his dearly beloved son (I Timothy 1:2, II Timothy 1:2). That tells us that Timothy was much younger to Paul. Paul must have enjoyed the goodness of Timothy’s mother and grandmother and so was able to speak of their faith with such an honor. Paul also says that without ceasing he remembers Timothy in his prayers night and day (II Timothy 1:3). These two were united in their mission to teach no other doctrine but that which is good and godly edifying in faith (I Timothy 1:4).

Paul says “wherefore” which means therefore or for this reason! So for the unfeigned faith in Timothy, Paul is asking Timothy to stir up the gift of God which is in him by putting on of Paul’s hands. Stirring up the gift of God is to put the gift of God into action by igniting it with the Spirit of God. In this case putting on of Paul’s hands symbolizes the bestowing of a spiritual responsibility on Timothy by Paul.

I would like to urge us all to consider the unfeigned faith that existed in Eunice and Lois that was found in Timothy. See this unfeigned faith was a wonderful spiritual quality that was inherited by Timothy from his mother and grandmother. Let us also think about the generations to come through us and let us make efforts to set up good examples to our children and grandchildren. Remember: the little eyes observe, the little ears hear, the little hearts ponder, the little hands do, the little legs walk and in no matter of time they would make an impression on people around them. Let us ask the Lord to help us lead exemplary lives completely dedicated for God’s honor and glory in full reverence unto Him and with unfeigned faith!

Next: Michal – Part I

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Jan 11

Joanna, the wife of Cuza

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Luke 8:3, 24:10

And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.

It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles.

Cuza was employed as a steward in Herod’s house. He held a responsible position that needed his attention to domestic and finance matters in Herod’s house. Joanna was Cuza’s beloved wife. Luke 8:1 says, “And it came to pass afterward, that he (JESUS) went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him”. So Jesus was in His ministry going through every city and village preaching and showing the good tidings of the Kingdom of God. Psalm 145:13 says, “Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations”. God’s kingdom is forever and His dominion endures throughout all generations. God is the same yesterday, today and forever; so, His Kingdom is an everlasting one; His throne is for ever and ever (Hebrews 1:8)! Jesus was completely engaged in this mighty act of preaching God’s Kingdom to all people. This should be our primary occupation as well! Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Let us make seeking the Kingdom of God as our first and foremost priority.

Along with Jesus and His twelve disciples, there were certain women like Joanna, the wife of Cuza, Mary called Magdalene, Susanna, and many others, which ministered to him (JESUS) of their substance (Luke 8:2-3). What is noteworthy is that these women ministered to Jesus by supporting them out of their own means. They chose to serve the Lord voluntarily from what they had not expecting to get paid for. I think what is commendable is their heart that is service-oriented for they knew very well their service was unto the King of Kings and in His ministry to preach good tidings of the Kingdom of God. Joanna was a woman among such women who submitted their lives for serving the Lord.

In Luke 24 we read about the victory of the resurrected Lord! Luke 24:1 says, “Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.” Among they that came to the sepulcher were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them (Luke 24:10). These women brought spices that they had prepared. They put their hands to work to prepare the spices to embalm the body of their dear Lord Jesus. The spices they brought were definitely sweet smelling and the fragrance speaks their hearts’ very attitude towards the Lord. Now, our sweet spices to the Lord Jesus Christ are our heartfelt sacrifices. My one prayer to Lord God is to teach me how I can praise Him in a new way, a way that brings a chuckle to Him and causes Him to wait for more such praises from me. Joanna and the women chose to bring such a wonderful perfume to the Lord Jesus Christ. Joanna was among the women who took the news of the resurrected Savior unto the apostles although it was not received well.

What I would like to bring to our attention is the importance of serving the Lord with all our hearts, minds, bodies and souls. A heart fully submitted unto the Lord, yields to His desire and His desire for us is that we seek His Kingdom first. Joanna and the women who were with her supported the ministry of Jesus out of their own means. Joanna’s life speaks unto us that she was a Christ-centered woman who was married to a steward who worked in Herod’s house. Their living was not of high nobility but was one with simple humility. With humble hearts filled with reverence unto our Lord, let us love Him and serve Him!

Next: Eunice and Lois

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Jan 10

Virtuous Woman

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Proverbs 31:10-27

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar. She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

Rubies are precious red stones that are expensive and pretty to look at. Any ornament that is made of rubies gets a look that is extravagant and simply superb. Who can find a virtuous woman? This says that hardly there are any virtuous women here on earth. This stuck a deep pierce in my heart few days before. The price of a virtuous woman is far worthier than rubies. Who would not be blessed to see a virtuous woman, who is far precious than rubies?

The characteristics of a virtuous woman are clearly laid out to lead the women to live such lives. The heart of a virtuous woman’s husband does safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him well all the days of her life. Trust is a pivotal role in a marital relationship. Many marriages fail due to lack of this essential component. This should be two-ways. The virtuous woman does good to her husband all the days of her life and the husband safely trusts her. The trust is established in a beautiful relationship like this.

She seeks wool, and flax, and works willingly with her hands. She works diligently with her hands. She is like the merchants’ ships; she brings her food from afar. Merchants’ ships carry cargo and fleet from one harbor to the other. A virtuous woman brings her food from afar. What this means to me is she considers the best food for her household and picks it up from a distance considering the nutritional benefits as well as the associated price. She rises well before the sunrise and prepares food for her household and leaves a portion for her maidens. So, she makes sure that the meat is available before anyone wakes up and also makes sure everyone gets their share of food including the maidens. She considers a field, and buys it: with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She is good at gardening and farming as well. She girds her loins with strength, and strengthens her arms. Girding up loins means to get ready by tightening the belt. When we tighten our belts, our movement at work becomes light and easy. She strengthens her arms by working vigorously with them; she perceives that her merchandise is good: her candle goes not out by night. She works till late in the night. She lays her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. That is she works with wool and flax. She stretches out her hand to the poor; yea, she reaches forth her hands to the needy. Poor and needy are addressed as well. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me”. Just like this virtuous woman, we should also take up the cause of serving the poor and the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. In other words, she is well-prepared for a coming storm. Everyone at home is provided the right equipment needed to protect them from a coming storm for she foresees the need and addresses it well ahead of time. She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Her home is well decorated and furnished by her own hands. When the household members enter in such a home they feel the warmth of a beautiful home built by hearts, cared for by loving hands, and surrounded by beautiful furnishings that look appealing to the eye. There is no shortage for anything in a home where the virtuous woman is the mistress. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land. She strives to keep the reputation of her husband and he is known well among the elders in the land. She makes fine linen, and sells it; and delivers girdles unto the merchant. In fact, she is her husband’s soulmate and helpmate from home to merchandise.

Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. Strength comes from endurance; endurance builds patience. When strength is a virtue of a woman, we can see what other beautiful traits she already possesses. Honor is to maintain dignity and reputation among the people of her land. I picture Ruth as one virtuous woman. Boaz says to Ruth in Ruth 3:11: “And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman.” How wonderful is Ruth’s reputation for all the city of Bethlehem knew of her honor! A virtuous woman opens her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. Proverbs 4:6-7 speaks of wisdom as: “Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” A virtuous woman is a woman of highest wisdom. She looks well to the ways of her household, and eats not the bread of idleness. She does not eat the bread of idleness nor wastes her resources. Proverbs 18:9 says, “He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.”

Who wants to be this virtuous woman? I think it is high time that we women pray and seek God’s face to help us be virtuous women to serve the Lord, to care for our husbands, to keep our household going in the right direction, not idling our time, keeping God at the center of our hearts, bearing strength and honor as our ornaments and all the above mentioned qualities. Lord, this is the cry of my heart. Help me in my journey to strive to be this virtuous woman merely by your grace and strength. I am sure the Lord will regard our prayers and shower us with His grace and mercy in our desire to be virtuous women.

Next: Joanna, the wife of Cuza

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Jan 09

Anna, a Prophetess, and the Daughter of Phanuel

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Luke 2:36-38

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 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. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Anna was a prophetess and the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser and she was a widow. She was pretty old of about eighty four years of age. After her marriage, she had lived with her husband for seven years before his death. She chose to live in the temple of the Lord and departed not from there. She served the Lord God with fastings and prayers night and day. She prayed without ceasing as it says in I Thessalonians 5:17. Also she rejoiced in hope, was patient in tribulation with continuing instant in prayer (Romans 12:12). Her hope was in the coming Savior of the World, Jesus Christ; she was patient in her suffering; continued to pray faithfully. She was a young widow and sure many temptations would have come her way if she has chosen to dwell in the world. She chose the best place to live after she became a widow. Psalm 84:10 says, “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” What a woman of faith Anna was!

Isaiah 58:6 speaks of God’s chosen fast: “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” Such was the fasting and prayers that Anna did. For those that looked for redemption in Israel, Anna was a woman with prophetic ability foreseeing the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Was it a gift that she had? No, it was a divine gift bestowed on her by the Lord God who knew her heart. She allowed God to search and know her heart, try and know her every thought (Psalm 139:23).

The effectiveness of a fervent prayer goes a long way in our walk with Christ. James 5 speaks on the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man. It also speaks of the power of an earnest prayer like Elijah’s. Anna chose the feet of the Lord at a very young age and stayed there until she was very old. She chose the courts of the Lord. What are you after? Do you long to be at Jesus’ feet in earnest prayer or do you loiter in the world and long for the things of the world? The feet of Jesus are the best place to be at and pour out your heart there and cry out for the souls that need to repent, for nations to turn from their wicked ways, for the cities that are given to the lust of flesh and power, for the people to be redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb, so precious… Anna gave thanks to the Lord and spoke about the redeemer to all those that sought the redemption through the Savior! She had a beautiful heart of praise and sacrifice. This year one of my earnest prayers to the Lord God is to help me praise Him in a way that my praises are a sweet aroma to His nostrils and a pleasant sound in His ears. I sure know He would teach me how to praise Him.

Next: Virtuous Woman

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Dec 24

The Birth of Jesus

Biblical Women Comments Off

Luke 2:1-7

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

During the time of emperor Caesar Augustus, he decided that the entire world should be taxed. During this time, the mother of Jesus was full with child. See the Savior of the World, was subject to taxation for He took the form of a servant and not as the King of Kings; He came as a servant to the Kings and yet was the King of Kings. Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” He came to minister and give His life a ransom for many and not to be ministered to. Every one had to go to their city and so Joseph and Mary had to go to Bethlehem of Judah for they were of David’s lineage, to fulfill the plan of God for the birth of Jesus Christ. Micah, a prophet prophesies the birth of Jesus in the little town of Bethlehem as it says in Micah 5:2. It says, “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” Bethlehem is the town of David’s birth and it was to be the town of Jesus’ birth. Jesus Christ was the son of David (Matthew 1:1). Even though the town is little among the thousands of Judah, through this little town the Savior, who was and is the Bread of Life was born. Bethlehem stands for “House of Bread” and the Bread of Life is our Savior Jesus Christ; any one who feeds on this divine Bread shall never hunger and so the divine plan for Jesus’ birth was in this little town. He chose the lowliest town and came through a Virgin Mary who was from a low estate.

While Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem, the days were accomplished and Mary brought forth a child, who was their firstborn, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger. There was no room in the inn for this Savior and Mary and Joseph had to find a place in the stable where the animals are kept and fed. Manger is the trough made of stone that is used to hold the food for the animals. The Savior had no cradle to lie in and He rested in a manger. Look at the most humble state in which Jesus was born; there was no room for Him; He was born in a stable; wrapped in swaddling clothes; laid in a manger. The one through whom the whole world would seek rest had no room for birth! The swaddling clothes are wrapped around a child to restrict movement and He was wrapped in these to keep Him from movement, yet He came to free us from our sin, error and guilt. When we are pining in error, we are wrapped in the swaddling clothes and lie in our devastated state until some one can grant us the Salvation and set us free. This some one is our Jesus Christ and let us all seek the freedom that He grants us which is precious and everlasting. He was born in a stable and laid in a manger alongside the animals there. He was the Good Shepherd who cared(s) for His flock (us) and brings us all under His shelter to be protected by Him. Under His care why should we be anxious or fret about anything?

Around this special season when we are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, let us not so much dwell on the traditions and customs that overshadow why Jesus came to this earth. The traditions and customs make us lose focus on Jesus and turn our attention to the mundane stories not so divine. Jesus, the immaculate one, was God’s chosen one, God’s only son, who obeyed His Father to the fullest, let God’s will in His life, fulfilled God’s plan and purpose for our sakes yet is a God Himself, the Messiah of the World, who gave His life a ransom for us, that we through Him might gain eternal life.

WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVE! Focus on Jesus and be mightily blessed from the hand of God.

Next: The Shepherds and the Angels

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Dec 23

Mary’s Song

Biblical Women Comments Off

Luke 1:46-55

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

This is a beautiful song of worship from a heart that rejoices in the Lord. Mary starts with magnifying the Lord and rejoicing in God her Savior just like Hannah in I Samuel 2:1-2 (And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.  There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.) Do we rejoice in the Lord always? Even when the circumstances are not favorable to us? Mary definitely rejoiced in the Lord at all times. We can see that she comes from a lowly estate, yet gave God the glory and honor. Hannah was provoked and made to fret by Peninnah (I Samuel 1:6), yet all she did was take her burden to the Lord in a sweet prayer. Our situations might belittle us, but remember He has made us in His image and loved us first! Leah was not favored by her own husband Jacob, yet was favored by God in that Judah was born through her and the Savior of the world came from the tribe of Judah. So, constantly sing praises unto the Lord God and worship Him! Let us magnify His name and exalt Him. He loves to be seated on the throne of our praises. Out of a humble heart proceeds beautiful praises that He so loves. He is the Holy God who is righteous to His people. He takes great delight in our praises for they are sweet fragrance that He longs to breathe and beautiful melody that He waits to hear! All the creation sings unto Him but He cherishes the songs of our heart above all. Genesis 1:28 says, “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” God has given us dominion over every living thing and blessed us to be fruitful, to multiply, and to replenish the earth and subdue it. Let us focus on God and redirect all our strength to sing hosannas to Him rather than focusing on our problems. If you allow satan to speak to you, he will pull you through until you are badly beaten. Do not grant permission for satan by pleading the blood of the Lamb all over you. The enemy has no place in our lives when we are completely lost in Jesus and enjoy the warmth of His presence with us!

Lord God regarded Mary; all generations will call her blessed. She was truly blessed by the mighty hand of God and He saw her low estate. This is similar to the words of Jesus concerning His poor disciples; He blessed them and said theirs is the kingdom of God (Luke 6:20). Mary said, God has done mighty things to her and His name is HOLY. Similarly, Isaiah knew how unclean and unholy he was before God. Isaiah 6:5 says, “Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.” Even though we are unholy before God, He asks us to be holy like He is holy. I Peter 1:16 says, “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” Yes, we can be holy only through Jesus Christ and every time we go to the throne of grace and seek His forgiveness by repenting whole-heartedly, we are cleansed and made whole; as often as we go to the throne of grace, this perfection occurs. So, why not make this a constant duty of ours? His mercy is on us who fear Him from generation to generation. His mercy is all we need and we know very well that His mercy endures forever!

God has shown the strength with His arm. The everlasting God is the Creator of the ends of the earth and in Him resides all the strength. He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts but the meek shall inherit the earth (Psalm 37:11). He has put the mighty from their seats but exalted those that are of low degree. He has filled the hungry with good things and he has sent the rich empty. He has helped his servant Israel (aka Jacob) for He is a God of mercy. He spoke to our fathers Abraham and all his seed forever. Through Abraham all the families of the earth will be blessed and this is a great promise for Abraham and through the birth of Jesus Christ truly all the families of earth are blessed. The promise given unto Abraham came to pass after forty two generations through the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World (Matthew 1:17)! God chose this blessed virgin and conceived her through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18). The joy of this mother-to-be of the King of Glory is all apparent through this song of worship.

 Next: The Birth of Jesus

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