Stories of Courage, Faith, and Divine Purpose
When we think of the great women of the Bible, names like Esther, Ruth, and Mary quickly come to mind. But scattered throughout Scripture are lesser-known women whose faith, courage, and resilience changed history. Their stories may not always be highlighted, but they shine with the quiet strength of those who trusted God against all odds. Today, let’s bring their stories to life and honor their faithfulness.
1. Shiphrah and Puah: Fearless Protectors of Life (Exodus 1:15-21)
At a time when Pharaoh sought to destroy Hebrew baby boys, two midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, stood in defiant obedience to God rather than submit to a wicked king. Their calling was to bring life into the world, not take it away. When questioned, they shrewdly explained that Hebrew women gave birth too quickly for them to intervene. Their bravery preserved an entire generation, including the one who would one day lead Israel to freedom—Moses. God honored them with families of their own, a reward for their unwavering faith. Their story reminds us that courage often comes in quiet acts of defiance against injustice.
2. Hagar: The Woman Who Named God (Genesis 16, 21:8-21)
Hagar, the servant of Sarah, often found herself discarded and forgotten. When Sarah mistreated her, she fled into the wilderness, alone and desperate. But it was there that God met her. He saw her pain and promised that her son, Ishmael, would become a great nation. Overcome by His kindness, she became the first person in Scripture to name God—El Roi, “The God Who Sees Me.” Hagar’s story reminds us that no one is invisible to God. In our lowest moments, He sees, hears, and provides.
3. Miriam: A Sister, a Leader, a Worshipper (Exodus 2, 15:20-21)
Long before Miriam became a prophetess, she was a brave young girl watching over her baby brother Moses as he floated down the Nile. She seized the moment to reunite him with their mother, ensuring he was raised with a connection to his Hebrew heritage. Later, she led the Israelite women in triumphant worship after their miraculous escape from Egypt. Though she faced failures, her story is one of leadership, protection, and joyful praise. Miriam teaches us that worship and courage go hand in hand.
4. Tamar: A Woman Who Fought for Justice (Genesis 38)
Tamar’s story is one of heartbreak and resilience. Twice widowed and denied the justice she was due, she courageously took matters into her own hands. In an act that might seem unconventional, she confronted the injustice done to her and ensured her rightful place in Judah’s lineage. Her boldness secured her place in the genealogy of Jesus. Tamar’s story is a reminder that God redeems even the most complicated situations, bringing justice to those the world overlooks.
5. Rahab: A Woman of Faith and Action (Joshua 2, 6)
Rahab was a Canaanite woman with a past, but that didn’t stop her from recognizing the power of the God of Israel. When two spies arrived in Jericho, she hid them, trusting that God would save her and her family. She boldly declared, “The Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (Joshua 2:11). Because of her faith, she not only survived the destruction of Jericho but became part of Jesus’ lineage. Rahab’s story shows that faith transforms destinies.
6. Deborah: A Prophetess Who Led with Wisdom (Judges 4-5)
At a time when Israel lacked strong leadership, Deborah stepped up as both prophetess and judge. She commanded respect, guided military victories, and inspired an entire nation. When Barak hesitated to go into battle, she didn’t flinch—she reminded him that God would win the battle, with or without him. And He did, delivering Israel through the courage of both Deborah and Jael. Deborah’s story is one of wisdom, leadership, and an unshakable trust in God’s direction.
7. Jael: The Unexpected Warrior (Judges 4:17-24)
Jael wasn’t a soldier, but when the enemy commander Sisera sought refuge in her tent, she recognized the opportunity to defeat him once and for all. With steady hands and a fearless heart, she struck down Israel’s oppressor, fulfilling Deborah’s prophecy. She was a woman of action who seized the moment to accomplish God’s will. Jael teaches us that sometimes, God calls the most unexpected people to deliver victory.
8. Huldah: A Prophetess Who Spoke Truth (2 Kings 22:14-20)
During King Josiah’s reign, a lost scroll of God’s law was found, and the nation needed guidance. The king didn’t turn to a priest or a male prophet—he turned to Huldah. With boldness, she confirmed the authenticity of the Scriptures and spoke God’s message with clarity. Her wisdom helped spark a national revival. Huldah’s story reminds us that when God gives us His truth, we must speak it fearlessly.
9. The Widow of Zarephath: A Woman Who Trusted in Scarcity (1 Kings 17:7-16)
When Elijah arrived at her home, this widow was preparing what she thought would be her last meal. Yet, in faith, she shared her last bit of food with the prophet. Her obedience led to a miracle—her oil and flour never ran out. Later, when her son fell ill, Elijah prayed, and God restored him to life. Her story is one of trust in the face of desperation, proving that when we give God our little, He provides abundantly.
10. Phoebe: A Pillar of the Early Church (Romans 16:1-2)
Paul described Phoebe as a deacon and benefactor of many, including himself. It’s likely that she was the one entrusted with delivering the letter to the Romans—one of the most profound writings of Christian doctrine. She wasn’t just a messenger; she was a leader in the early church. Phoebe’s story highlights the essential role women played in spreading the Gospel.
11. The Canaanite Woman: A Mother’s Unshakable Faith (Matthew 15:21-28)
She had every reason to give up. A foreigner, a woman, and a desperate mother seeking healing for her daughter—yet she persisted. Even when Jesus tested her faith, she responded with unwavering belief, refusing to take “no” for an answer. Moved by her faith, Jesus healed her daughter and commended her perseverance. The Canaanite woman reminds us that persistence in faith moves the heart of God.
Honoring the Unsung Heroines
These women may not always be the focus of Sunday sermons, but their stories are powerful testaments to faith, courage, and divine purpose. They were mothers, leaders, warriors, servants, and worshippers. They stood firm in the face of injustice, sought truth, and believed in God’s promises even when circumstances seemed impossible.
Their lives remind us that God uses the overlooked, the underestimated, and the unlikely. He sees every act of faithfulness, no matter how small. And just as He honored these women, He honors every woman today who walks in faith, trusting in His purpose.
Which of these stories inspires you the most? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear how these women encourage you in your own walk with God!
Want to Dive Deeper into the Lives of Biblical Women?
If you’re inspired by the wisdom and faith of the women in the Bible, I highly recommend The Women of the Bible Speak by Shannon Bream. This powerful book explores the stories of 16 remarkable women, drawing lessons that are still relevant today. Whether you’re seeking encouragement, strength, or a deeper understanding of God’s plan, this book offers insightful reflections that will uplift and guide you.
You can find The Women of the Bible Speak here.
