Biblical Role Models

Oluwafolakemi Ibidokun

As a woman you possess an inner strength like no other, and as child of God, you are able to do all things through Christ. However, as a single woman you may not always feel those truths are exhibited in your life. I have learned incredible lessons from some amazing women of strength and I’d like to share some encouragement from a few of my favorite biblical female role models.
Of all the women listed in the Bible, most people may probably not select the three that I considered below as role models. Much like me, they are the 'behind the scenes' type of women. They are not at the center of attention or frontline of a book, but their lives exhibited great faith lessons that I draw strength from and which I apply to my life on a daily basis. I need not the limelight, I only need the inner witness that I’m living a life that is pleasing to Christ every day, whilst relying solely on His grace to do so, and exactly the strengths I draw from these Biblical heroines.
As much as I learn what to do from them, I have also learnt valuable lessons in what not to do.
I invite you journey with me into the lives of three of the women I admire so much and I pray that you find joy and lifelong lessons from their stories too.
Naomi
First on my list is Naomi. Her story is found in the book of Ruth and although Ruth’s story held great biblical significance to the lineage of Christ, albeit, it was Naomi who mentored Ruth and offered her great insights often overlooked in this story. Most people like to make the correlation to single women finding their Boaz like Ruth but it was Naomi who taught Ruth everything she knew, and thank God for that teachable spirit she possessed.
Much like many single women today, Naomi suffered great losses and she refused to hide her bitterness. Her constant focus on her circumstances led her to live a life of hopelessness. But she did not stay that way. We all have bad days, but we must learn that there is a purpose and gain in pain and we can’t stay that way because God is faithful to restore. Naomi believed in God and attributed her suffering to His will and inspired great loyalty in her daughter-in-law.
Naomi's story teaches us to form deep and lasting relationships. Despite her own circumstances and suffering, Naomi was there for Ruth. She not only encouraged and guided her, but she shared her life with her. The life of Naomi taught me how to be a better friend and mentor, despite my circumstances and what I’m going through I can use my experience to bless others and point them to Christ.
Hannah
Next on my list is Hannah. I love the story of Hannah so much, not because she eventually got what she wanted but because of how she responded to criticism, how she responded to God when her prayers went unanswered for so long and most of all how she honored God when He answered her prayer.
Hannah’s story, found in I Samuel chapter one, definitely teaches us how to trust God wholeheartedly and to live faithfully. Again, like many Christian single women, Hannah desperately prayed for something she wanted and was taunted by her mate for the lack of that thing in her life. But unlike many of us, Hannah didn’t lash out at others, even when situations and circumstances which surrounded her called for such, she didn’t invite her friends over for a pity party, nor did she slip into a mild state of depression; she took her heartfelt concerns to God, and made a vow. Eventually God honoured her request and granted her, her heart desire. At last, Hannah enjoyed many of God blessings, she eventually redeemed her vow, by giving back to God that very thing she had waited for so long to have Hannah's story taught me to check my motives, for requesting any blessing from God. why do I want what I want? Is it for my own selfish interest and pleasures or for God’s glory?
Hannah prayed, she believed, was hopeful, had faith and left the results to God. She was comforted by her time spent in the atmosphere of God's presence, she considered God faithful and God came through for her(1Samuel 1:18). Hannah's story taught us to have confidence in God and to be mindful of our attitudes when faced with one challenge or the other, also that during our waiting period we should remember what God has done for us in time past and be encouraged. To always have confidence in God’s ability to answer prayers and to completely trust that His decision to do so or not is always in my/our best interest.
Mary of Bethany
Last, but certainly not the least I shall be considering is Mary of Bethany. Much of her story is found in the 11th and 12th chapters of John. Like us, she was a single woman and lived a life fully devoted to Jesus. Just like us she succumb to doubts and weaknesses as a result of her circumstances. Upon seeing Jesus, through her tears she said “Lord if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32). However, after witnessing the miracle of Jesus raising her brother Lazarus from the dead, she responded with worship. “Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure spikenard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair...” (John 12:3). What a height of worship!
Her story taught us that even though we may have moments of doubt, we cannot stay there. Once we recognize the greatness and the miracle working power of God, our hearts are naturally drawn to worship the King of Glory. Mary learnt the importance of seeking the Lord’s presence regardless of the circumstances and situations she was in at the time.
“…Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”- Luke 10:39-42
Although criticized by her loved one, she took time to bask in Jesus’ presence rather than squander the moments with meaningless feats. And we too should not be so busy working for Him that we miss Him. Jesus’ response confirms that He is pleased when we put Him first. Yes, Mary teaches us how to worship the Father and how to prioritize and put first things first. Thank you Mary for helping me to understand the importance of seeking His presence rather than His presents.
A role model is someone who serves as an example and whose behavior is emulated by others. These ladies certainly exhibit behaviors that I love to emulate. The lessons from their stories help to strengthen my Christian walk and am grateful.
Who are your biblical role models and what have they taught you?