4 Widows in the Bible That Remarried and Found New Life

Widows in the Bible That Remarried

You may wonder if there were widows who remarried in the Bible. Yes, four widows remarried in the Bible. Apostle Paul encouraged the remarriage of widows in 1 Timothy 5: 3 – 16 when there was a crisis in the church which prompted Timothy to seek advice from his leader about the issue.

I am sure that many widows were remarried after Apostle Paul gave a caution about the issue of widows’ remarriage. Today’s article will discuss the four widows specifically mentioned and the circumstances surrounding their remarriage.

Irrespective of the fact that Widows face some sort of marginalization when it comes to remarriage right from Biblical times to date, some widows have the privilege to remarry. Some widows always feel that they cannot remarry. You know what? I am writing this article for you to be encouraged by the stories of these widows who found hope and joy when it seemed all hope was lost.

 

Widows in the Bible That Remarried

Though the Bible has recorded the total number of widows in the bible that remarried, just four of them have been recorded to remarry as seen in the Bible records.

Ruth

Ruth was a woman of the Moabite descent. She married at a time of hardship and famine to Mahlon, one of the sons of Naomi and Elimelech. This family had moved with their family from Bethlehem to Moab due to the persistent famine in their land. Tragically, Elimelech, Mahlon, and his brother Chilion died in Moab, leaving Noami, Ruth, and her sister-in-law Orpah as widows.

Following the deaths of Mahlon and Chilion, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, her homeland. She urged Ruth and Orpah to return to their families in Moab as she was old and unable to conceive more sons for them to remarry as was the custom. Ruth famously chose to stay with Naomi, proclaiming her loyalty with the words, “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16, NIV). This decision showcased Ruth’s deep bond with Naomi and her commitment to support her mother-in-law during their time of loss.

Upon their return to Bethlehem, Ruth took on the role of providing for Naomi by gleaning in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz noticed Ruth’s dedication towards work and kindness towards Naomi and extended his protection and generosity towards her. Naomi noticed Boaz’s kindness and his potential as a kinsman-redeemer, so she encouraged Ruth to approach Boaz and seek his protection and provision.

Boaz, moved by Ruth’s character and devotion, agreed to take on the role of kinsman-redeemer. This meant he would marry Ruth to preserve the family name and inheritance of Elimelech’s lineage. The union between Ruth and Boaz not only provided security and stability for Ruth and Naomi but also played a role in the lineage leading to King David and eventually Jesus Christ.

 

Lessons from Ruth’s Story

Loyalty and Commitment: Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi shows that standing by loved ones in times of hardship and adversity can pave the way for your salvation, deliverance, prosperity, etc. Despite being a widow, set aside bitterness and strive to work hard and be in active service, you may never know what comes next. Be committed to the well-being of your husband’s family as this story has set an example of sacrificial love and family duty.

 

Faithfulness and Trust in God: Ruth’s journey from Moab to Bethlehem was guided by her trust in God and her willingness to embrace a new life in a foreign land. Her faithfulness was rewarded with blessings and divine providence. The same blessings that awaited Ruth might be your portion if you trust and have faith in God to open new ways for you while staying loyal to your late spouse’s family.

 

Redemption and Restoration: The concept of kinsman-redeemer, embodied by Boaz, reflects God’s desire to redeem and restore His people. Ruth and Boaz’s marriage is God’s faithfulness in preserving the family line and fulfilling His promises. Just believe that God will secure your kinsman redeemer for you. Even though in the modern world, most Christians do not respect the culture and traditions of Levirate marriage. God will still locate you to a man that will marry you

 

Inclusion in God’s Plan: Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ is God’s acceptance and inclusion of individuals from diverse backgrounds and nationalities into His redemptive plan. God will make you to be accepted anywhere you are irrespective of the fact that you are of a different background. God will make you remarry and have a child that will make your name to resound in ages.

 

Bathsheba: From Widowhood to Marriage with King David

Bathsheba’s story is that of tragedy and redemption. It started during the reign of King David. Originally married to Uriah the Hittite, a valiant soldier in David’s army. Bathsheba became widowed under tragic circumstances caused by King David as he was entranced by Bathsheba’s beauty. Having realized the magnitude of his actions, he arranged for Uriah to be placed in a perilous position on the battlefield and ensured his death. This act of betrayal and murder cast a shadow over David’s reign and brought grief to Bathsheba.

Following Uriah’s death, Bathsheba entered a new phase of her life as she married King David. Their union, however, began under contentious circumstances, tainted by the consequences of David’s actions and the public scandal that ensued. Despite these challenges, Bathsheba’s marriage to David eventually stabilized, and she became one of his wives, occupying a prestigious position in the royal household.

Bathsheba’s marriage to David bore fruit in the birth of their son, Solomon, who later succeeded David as king of Israel. Bathsheba’s influence as Solomon’s mother prepared him for kingship and ensured his succession to the throne. Under Solomon’s reign, Israel experienced a period of unprecedented prosperity and peace, marking a pivotal era in its history.

 

Lessons from Bathsheba’s Story

Consequences of Sin: Bathsheba’s story shows the far-reaching consequences of sin and betrayal. David’s actions led to Uriah’s death and brought deep sorrow and shame upon Bathsheba and their families. It serves as a caution about the destructive power of selfish desires and the importance of integrity and moral responsibility.

Dear widows, try as much as you can to avoid being the reason behind your husband’s death. Even though you might be forgiven, you must surely bear the consequences. Pray for God’s forgiveness over your life.

In this case, it was taboo to refuse the orders of a King, so Bathsheba had no option but to obey an order that subsequently led to the death of her husband. Pray for your fellow women to never be at a crossroads that might be the cause of their husband’s death.

 

Redemption and Forgiveness: Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding their marriage, Bathsheba’s story shows God’s capacity for redemption and forgiveness. Through the birth of Solomon, God demonstrated His ability to bring good out of a painful situation, paving the way for a new chapter in Israel’s history.

I pray for every widow with the guilt of their husband’s death. Let the power of redemption take control and make good out of a filthy situation. May you be forgiven in Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Motherhood and Influence: Bathsheba’s role as Solomon’s mother should be a point of courage to you to influence and shape the destiny of your children. Her guidance and support were instrumental in preparing Solomon for his future responsibilities as king, you can do the same.

 

God’s Sovereignty: Bathsheba’s story tells of God’s sovereignty and His ability to work through flawed individuals and imperfect circumstances to accomplish His purposes. Despite the challenges and setbacks, God remained faithful to His promise and continued to guide Israel through its tumultuous history. Believe that you can remarry and change the bad narrative about you.

 

Tamar: From Widowhood to Securing Her Place in Judah’s Lineage

Tamar’s story is found in Genesis 38. She was initially married to Judah’s first son, Er, but he died without leaving her with children, leaving her widowed. According to the custom of levirate marriage, Tamar then married Er’s brother Onan, who also died childless, furthering her widowhood.

Following the deaths of Er and Onan, Judah withheld his third son, Shelah, from Tamar, denying her the opportunity to bear children and secure her future. Determined to secure her place in Judah’s lineage and obtain justice, Tamar devised a bold plan. She disguised herself as a prostitute and, concealed her identity, enticing Judah into a sexual encounter. From this union, she conceived and bore twin sons, Perez and Zerah.

 

Lessons

Perseverance in Adversity: “Never give up” should be your watchword as Tamar showed perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite experiencing widowhood and being denied her right to marry Shelah, she took bold action to secure her future and uphold her rights under the customs of the time.

Your situation may not be to be married in the Levirate way but strive to get married in a manner that is pleasing to God. Act and prove in every means that you want to be remarried. This might sound desperate, but the issue is that you must learn to pursue your goal without relenting and deploy all legitimate strategies to achieve it.

Tamar’s actions is the pursuit of justice and resourcefulness in achieving her goals. By disguising herself and using unconventional means, she ensured that Judah fulfilled his duty to provide her with offspring, thereby securing her place in Judah’s lineage.

 

Legacy and Redemption: Despite the unconventional circumstances surrounding their conception, Perez and Zerah became part of Judah’s lineage and became prominent figures in Israel’s history. Tamar’s story shows God’s ability to bring redemption and blessings out of difficult situations, reaffirming His faithfulness to His promises.

 

Abigail: From Widowhood to Becoming an Advisor to King David

Abigail’s story, found in 1 Samuel 25, unfolds amidst a backdrop of conflict and diplomacy. She was married to Nabal, a wealthy but harsh and selfish man. When David and his men, who were fleeing from King Saul, sought hospitality from Nabal, he rudely refused them. In response, David prepared to retaliate against Nabal and his household.

Upon hearing of David’s intentions, Abigail took decisive action. Sensing David’s rightful anger and the potential consequences, she quickly gathered a generous offering of food and supplies. She intercepted David before he could carry out his plan and humbly appealed to his sense of justice and reason. Abigail’s eloquence and wisdom impressed David, who acknowledged her intervention and decision-making skills.

After Nabal’s death, David proposed marriage to Abigail. She accepted, becoming one of David’s wives and an influential figure in his court. Abigail’s role extended beyond that of a spouse; she became a trusted advisor to David, known for her intelligence, diplomacy, and sound judgment.

 

Lessons from Abigail’s Story

Wisdom and Diplomacy: Abigail’s story shows that one must have wisdom and diplomacy to be able to resolve conflicts and avert disaster. Her quick thinking and ability to communicate effectively saved her household and earned David’s respect and admiration. As a widow, were you wise enough in your judgments, to intervene in situations and avert danger from your home? I am not here to judge you but to tell you that it is never too late to make amends.

Despite being married to a difficult and disrespectful man, Abigail demonstrated courage and resourcefulness in difficult circumstances. Her actions reflect her willingness to protect her family and seek reconciliation, even at personal risk.

 

Transformation and Redemption: Abigail’s marriage to David is a transformation from a life of hardship and conflict to one of honor and influence. Her role as David’s advisor and wife shows God’s ability to bring redemption and elevate individuals who demonstrate faithfulness and wisdom. Believe that God will project you to another marriage that will be better than the former one.

Conclusion

The stories of the four widows in the Bible who remarried and found new life offer powerful lessons of hope, resilience, and God’s providence. These women, despite facing the immense sorrow and challenges of widowhood, experienced renewal and blessings through their faith and God’s guidance. Their journeys remind us that even in the darkest times, there is potential for new beginnings and restored joy.

These stories illustrate that life can be renewed and transformed after loss. They show how faith, courage, and God’s grace can lead to unexpected and beautiful new chapters. For anyone facing similar struggles, these biblical examples provide reassurance that there is hope and potential for new life after hardship.

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