In the Bible, several widows are introduced to us. These widows had different societal statuses and they played beneficial roles in unfolding God’s plan.
Their stories teach lessons to present-time widows that they should not feel that their spouse’s death is the greatest tragedy that could befall them.
I want to tell you that death you think is an “enemy” is an “asset”. The widowhood you think is there to defeat you, God put it there to make you better.
Nothing in your life has happened by accident—it’s all divinely orchestrated as a part of the plan to make you and mold you into greatness.
Imagine you are playing a game, and you meet a tough opponent. You might think they are there to make you lose, but surprisingly, they are helping you become a better player.
By reading about these widows in the Bible, you will think beyond that losing your partner, is just to hurt you, but it’s a chance for you to grow stronger and better.
Your mindset will change after reading this piece to consider your widowhood status as someone putting obstacles in your life to help you become amazing.
Your husband’s demise is part of a bigger plan to help you become the best version of yourself.
Did you believe that you could make it this far after his demise?
You see!
You are amazing.
Talking about these widows will build your resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity. Each of their stories has different lessons from perseverance, faithfulness, and the often-surprising outpouring of God’s provision.
Their story will encourage widows to look beyond their circumstances and to trust in only what God says about them. Their stories will embolden your heart to be assured that the often marginalized people (widows) are the very heart of divine revelation and action of God.
Believe me!
As you read about the lives of these 13 widows, you will understand that you are made a widow for a purpose – to be a pillar of strength and dignity that can flourish even in loss.
Widows in the Bible
I have thoroughly researched each of these instances. I have also reviewed a comprehensive list of every woman mentioned in the Bible and conducted a biblical search to find an answer to this question. As a result, I now have a list of widows in the Bible, though I suspect I may still be missing a few. If you think of any additional names, please let me know.
There are several challenges that make this task difficult. For instance, we are not always explicitly told that a woman is a widow, even when it seems likely. A prime example is Sapphira, who was a widow for only about three hours before she joined her husband, Ananias, in death. Another challenge is that some widows who were widows were not much talked.
An example is Mary, the mother of Jesus. I believe she became a widow at some point during Jesus’ life, given the frequent absence of her husband, Joseph, in the narratives of Jesus’ later years. I also suspect that the mother of Mark in the New Testament may have been a widow as well.
Keeping these issues in mind, the following is the best list of widows in the Bible that I could compile.
1. Tamar
The story of Tamar is one of the most striking narratives of justice-seeking in the Bible, found in Genesis 38. Married to Er, the eldest son of Judah, Tamar became a widow when Er was slain by God for his wickedness.
Custom dictated that she marry the next brother to produce an heir, but when Onan, the second son, also died for failing to fulfill this duty, Tamar was left in limbo.
Promised to Shelah, the youngest son, by her father-in-law Judah, she was never given in marriage and remained in her widow’s garments, waiting.
Realizing that Judah would not uphold his promise, Tamar took matters into her own hands. She disguised herself as a prostitute and seduced Judah.
From this union, she conceived twins, Perez and Zerah. When her pregnancy was discovered, Judah ordered her to be burned for prostitution.
Brave and astute, Tamar produced Judah’s personal items, which he had given her as a pledge, revealing him as the father.
Judah recognized his wrong and declared her more righteous than himself, as she had acted to secure her rightful place and future within the family.
Analysis of Her Actions and the Societal Context
Tamar’s actions, while deceptive, must be understood within the patriarchal context of her time. Her situation was dire; a childless widow had no status or security.
Tamar’s seduction of Judah was an act of survival and a demand for justice, as she was being denied her legal and social rights to a levirate marriage—a cultural practice wherein a man was obligated to marry his deceased brother’s widow to provide her with offspring.
Her story shows the limited avenues available to women in her society and the lengths to which she had to go to claim her rights and recognition.
Tamar’s pursuit of justice and security involved personal risk, but it was a calculated risk that ultimately ensured her survival and the continuation of Judah’s lineage, from which King David and, according to Christian tradition, Jesus Christ would descend.
Lessons on Perseverance and Righteousness
Tamar’s story teaches us perseverance in the face of injustice. Despite being wronged and marginalized, she did not passively accept her plight. Instead, she displayed a remarkable level of initiative and determination to secure her future and uphold her dignity.
Her story is also a complicated lesson in righteousness. While her methods were unorthodox and even scandalous, they were driven by a desire for justice and the fulfillment of familial and societal obligations that were denied to her.
Judah’s admission of her righteousness shows that righteousness is not about the purity of one’s actions as the society validates but about the justice one seeks to achieve, especially when faced with systemic wrongdoing.
Widows should take a lesson from Tamar’s story that they should engage in unexpected or abnormal activities in pursuit of their just cause especially in a world of injustice as we have found ourselves today.
2. Naomi
Naomi’s story, found in the book of Ruth (Ruth 1:1-5), provides a profound example of love, loyalty, and faith in the face of hardship.
In the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land of Israel. Because of this, a man named Elimelech took his wife Naomi and their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion, to live in the country of Moab. Moab was a neighboring country, but its people did not worship the God of Israel.
While they were in Moab, Elimelech died, leaving Naomi a widow with her two sons. Her sons married Moabite women. One was named Orpah, and the other was named Ruth. After about ten years, both of Naomi’s sons, Mahlon and Kilion, also died. This left Naomi without her husband and her two sons. She was now in a foreign land with her two daughters-in-law.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows
Cope with Loss and Grief
Naomi experienced deep sorrow and loss, first losing her husband and then her two sons. This teaches that it is natural to grieve and feel sorrow when faced with such losses. Widows can find comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their grief and that others have experienced similar pain.
Face Hardships with Strength
Despite her hardships, Naomi showed strength and determination. She decided to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, even though it meant starting over. Widows can learn the importance of finding strength to move forward, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Need for Support
Naomi’s story highlights the importance of community and support. She had her daughters-in-law with her, and this support was crucial. Widows can benefit greatly from the support of friends, family, and community during difficult times.
Trust in God’s Plan
Although Naomi felt bitter and believed that God had dealt harshly with her, the story later reveals that God had a plan for her and her family. This teaches that, even in the darkest times, there can be hope and trust in God’s larger plan, which may not be immediately evident.
Loyalty and Love
Naomi’s relationship with her daughters-in-law, especially Ruth, who chose to stay with her, shows the power of loyalty and love. Ruth’s famous words to Naomi, “Where you go, I will go; and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God,” highlight the deep bond they shared. Widows can learn the value of forming and nurturing loving and loyal relationships.
Adapt to Change
Naomi had to adapt to significant changes in her life, including moving to a new country and then returning home. This shows the importance of being adaptable and resilient in the face of life’s unexpected changes.
3. The Widow of Zarephath
The story of the Widow of Zarephath is found in 1 Kings 17, during a time of drought. The prophet Elijah, directed by God, traveled to Zarephath and encountered the widow as she was gathering sticks to give him water and thereafter requested her to prepare what she believed would be her and her son’s final meal.
1 Kings 17:12,14
She answered, “By the living Lord your God I swear that I haven’t got any bread. All I have is a handful of flour in a bowl and a drop of olive oil in a jar. I came here to gather some firewood to take back home and prepare what little I had for my son and me. That will be our last meal, and then we will starve to death.
Prophet Elijah further persuaded her to make food for him from a small cake of bread.
“For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The bowl will not run out of flour or the jar run out of oil before the day that I, the Lord, send rain.’ ”
Despite her scarce resources, she believed in the prophet of God and also believed in God’s provision and first made him a little bread from what she had.
In doing so, she witnessed a miraculous event: her supply of flour and oil did not run out, fulfilling Elijah’s assurance that the jar of flour and jug of oil would not be depleted until the day the Lord sent rain upon the earth.
The widow and her household were sustained throughout the famine, experiencing first-hand the reliability of God’s promises.
The Powerful Lessons
A. Faith and Trust
This widow’s story is a remarkable demonstration of faith and trust in divine provision. Her willingness to give from her need, not her abundance shows her level of great faith that was rewarded by a miracle.
Widows must learn to have great faith. They should believe that God is a great provider as he stated in Jeremiah 49:11
“Leave your orphans with me, and I will take care of them. Your widows can depend on me.”
This verse admonishes widows to absolutely depend on God’s provision. Know that God is your immediate help in times of distress.
B. Share without a Second Thought
Widows must be willing to share whatever they have with other people without having a second thought for God rewards a cheerful giver.
The singular act of sharing gave way to a miracle in which the widow, her son, and the prophet were sustained.
C. Obey
The widow’s experience teaches that God’s provision often comes in the midst of obedience, especially when human logic suggests scarcity and despair.
Divine care is not limited by our circumstances, and when we trust in divine promises, our needs can be met in ways that defy explanation.
D. Givers and Not Receivers
If widows learn to give, they will position themselves in positions of leadership and become “Vessels of Hope” probably by establishing Non-Governmental Organizations or Ministries to cater to their fellow widows and other people.
A lot of widows feel that they should be at the receiving end. As you can see, the widow of Zarephath was an icon of giving, so this should erase all traces of entitlement. Become a giver today even as a widow and you will be amazed at the riches you will accrue.
4. The Widow with Two Mites
The account of the widow’s offering of two mites or coins is a biblical story seen in the Gospel of Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4.
Jesus observed people giving their offerings at the temple treasury, noting the large sums contributed by the wealthy. Amidst this, a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a day’s wages.
Jesus called His disciples to Him and pointed out the widow’s action as a teachable moment. He declared that this widow, in her poverty, had put in more than all the others who had contributed out of their wealth.
For they had given out of their surplus, but she, out of her poverty, had put in everything—all she had to live on. Her act of giving was noted not for its monetary value but for the heart and sacrifice behind it.
Lessons and Present-Day Admonition
A. Sacrificial Giving
The widow’s offering shows the essence of all widows to give sacrificially. Participate in whatever activity you find yourself. It may not necessarily be money but it can be your intellectual contribution or performing certain task.
Just contribute in your own little way. This poor widow’s act is a challenge that the value of a gift is not measured by its size. Instead, it proposes that true generosity is measured by the spirit in which the gift is given.
Every widow, giving their meager offering shows that they trust in God’s provision and also shows a commitment to participate in the community or religious activities despite their economic status.
B. Genuine Intent
Jesus’ commendation of the widow’s act of giving serves as a powerful lesson on the nature of genuine intent—giving in a manner that costs us, that demonstrates faith, and that signifies total reliance on God.
This story calls believers to examine the motivation and sincerity behind their offerings, encouraging a generosity that springs not from abundance, but from a willing and devoted heart.
In essence, the widow with the two mites teaches us that the impact of a gift is not determined by its material value but by the love and devotion that it represents.
5. The Widow of Nain
The narrative of the Widow of Nain is recounted in the Gospel of Luke (7:11-17). As Jesus approached the town gate of Nain, He encountered a funeral procession. This event is significant in Jesus’ ministry as it showcases His authority over life and death, a foretaste of His own resurrection.
A widow was on her way to bury her only son, and with him, her hope for the future. In the ancient world, the death of her only son would have left her vulnerable and without support.
Moved by compassion, Jesus approached the bier and touched it, saying, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” The young man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
Prayer Point
This prayer will manifest the power of divine intervention in our lives, and encourage faith that God is indeed attentive to our struggles and capable of reversing our circumstances in miraculous ways. I know that a lot of widows have equally been in this situation. I pray that the good Lord comforts you.
A Prayer of Comfort
Dear God, We come to you today with heavy hearts, seeking your comfort and solace for this widow who has suffered the unimaginable loss of her son. We cannot fathom the depth of her pain, but we know that you see every tear she sheds and feel every ache in her heart.
Wrap your loving arms around her, Lord, and be her strength in this time of weakness. Help her to find the courage to face each day, knowing that you are by her side, guiding her steps, and wiping away her tears. May she feel your presence like a gentle breeze, soothing her troubled soul and bringing her peace.
Grant her the grace to grieve her loss and the wisdom to find hope amidst the darkness. Help her to hold onto the precious memories she shared with her son and find comfort in knowing that he is now in your loving embrace.
Give her the strength to carry on, knowing that you have a plan for her life and that you will never leave her nor forsake her. Surround her with love and support from friends and family, and help her to lean on them in her time of need.
May she find healing in the midst of her pain and may her faith in you be strengthened through this trial. And may the love and commitment she has shown to her son ripple outwards, touching the lives of all who know her and shining as a beacon of your light in the world.
In your holy name, we pray,
Amen.
Significance of This Story
A. Strength
This widow’s story shows the level of strength embedded in widows. Imagine someone who lost her husband and thereafter lost the only son who was the only pillar she leaned on.
A widow’s strength is like a small light that stays bright even in the dark. It’s her bravery to keep going each day, even when she feels very sad. She’s strong because she takes care of her family, even when she misses her loved one a lot.
She’s strong because she remembers the good times and keeps going, even when things are hard. Her strength is in how she wakes up every day and keeps going, even when she feels sad.
A widow’s strength isn’t loud, but it’s really strong. It’s in how she acts kind to others and keeps going, even when she’s sad.
It’s in how she keeps loving, keeps living, and keeps being brave. In her strength, she finds good things even when life feels very hard. And it’s this strength that helps her get through even the hardest times.
B. Compassion
It is also one of the few instances where Jesus performs a miracle unasked, prompted solely by His compassion for a grieving mother.
The story of the Widow of Nain shows the deep compassion of Jesus towards widows. It illustrates His attentiveness to human pain and His willingness to restore what was lost.
C. Power of Restoration
The widow’s plight, her loss, and subsequent restoration offer hope and comfort to those who mourn which demonstrates that divine compassion knows no bounds and can bring about healing in the most hopeless situations.
The widow’s experience with Jesus also symbolizes the restoration that He offers to all humanity—bringing life where there is death, hope where there is despair, and joy where there is mourning.
6. Anna: The Prophetess Who Witnessed the Messiah
Anna’s story is narrated in the Gospel of Luke (2:36-38), where she is introduced as an elderly widow and prophetess who had dedicated her life to the service of God.
After her husband’s death, she chose to live in the temple, fasting and praying day and night. Anna’s life was marked by a remarkable devotion of her constant presence in the temple which signifies a deep commitment to worship and the prophetic ministry.
Anna’s long wait was rewarded when she encountered the infant Jesus at the temple during His presentation by Mary and Joseph.
Recognizing Him as the fulfillment of prophecy, Anna gave thanks to God. She spoke of the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem, becoming an early testifier to Jesus’ messianic identity.
Her encounter with Jesus was brief but profound, culminating in a moment of divine revelation that confirmed her faith and lifetime of expectation.
Present Day Relevance
A. Be Committed
Anna’s encounter with Jesus is a point of reference to present-day widows to are dedicated to the service of God to participate in the joy of salvation. Anna’s undaunted commitment and her choice to live a life of worship and prayer exemplify the spiritual virtues of patience and faithfulness that every widow should inculcate. Her devotion was not passive; it was active and expectant, filled with hope for the promised salvation of Israel.
B. Unspeakable Joy
Any widow that imbibes the lifestyle of Anna will equally experience the joy that Anna experienced upon seeing Jesus which reflects the fulfillment of God’s promises and the salvation that He brings.
Her immediate response—to give thanks and to speak of the child to others reveals the natural overflow of a heart that has witnessed God’s deliverance.
Do you want to be a partaker of this joy as a widow? Demonstrate the lifestyle of Anna.
C. Redemption
Anna’s story is a beautiful illustration of a life spent in anticipation of God’s redemptive work, and it invites widows to consider how dedication to God can prepare the heart to recognize and rejoice in the coming of salvation.
Her life reminds us that those who earnestly seek God, who spend their days in His presence, are often the first to recognize His handiwork and to share the good news of His salvation with others.
7. Abigail
Abigail’s story, detailed in 1 Samuel 25, begins while she is still married to Nabal, a wealthy but churlish man who offends David, the future king of Israel, by refusing him hospitality and assistance.
Abigail, known for her intelligence and beauty, quickly discerns the danger Nabal’s actions have brought upon their household. Without her husband’s knowledge, she prepares a generous gift and sets out to meet David, offering provisions and a plea for mercy.
After she returns home, Abigail informs Nabal of what she has done, and he suffers a stroke and dies ten days later, leaving Abigail a widow.
Upon hearing of Nabal’s death, David sends for Abigail to become his wife, recognizing her qualities and the wisdom of her actions.
Abigail’s marriage to David is significant as it positions her as a queen consort to the king of Israel, a remarkable transition for a woman who had been married to a man whose folly nearly led to their destruction.
As David’s wife, Abigail is inferred to have considerable influence, given her proven discernment and capability in handling complex situations.
What is/Were your Role in Your Household?
This is a pertinent question you should ask yourself. As a non widow reading this article, what are you doing to protect your family incase you become a widow so that life will be easier for you?
Abigail’s intelligence, kindness, and quick thinking helped her not only survive but thrive in difficult circumstances.
Firstly, Abigail’s discernment and wisdom enabled her to recognize the danger brought upon her household by her husband’s actions. Instead of reacting impulsively or defensively, she took proactive steps to address the situation.
This ability to assess and respond to threats is crucial for anyone, especially for a widow who may face additional vulnerabilities without a husband’s protection and support.
Secondly, Abigail’s generosity and diplomacy played a major role in securing her safety and future well-being. By offering provisions and extending a plea for mercy to David, she defused a potentially volatile situation and gained favor in his eyes.
Abigail’s integrity and honesty shone through in her actions. Despite her husband’s folly and ignorance, she took responsibility for her household’s well-being and acted decisively to rectify the situation. This sense of accountability and moral fortitude not only earned her respect but also paved the way for future opportunities and blessings.
As a widow, what did you do to secure your protection just like Abigail?
Are you reaping good or bad fruits you sowed when you were not a widow?
Abigail never anticipated becoming a widow within a short while after helping the King. She was just being a good woman because she knew that it would bring many benefits.
I ask again; what have you done to secure favor especially when faced with the challenges of widowhood as seen in Abigail’s story?
Are you a peacemaker or an instigator of problems as a woman?
Are you using your wisdom and insight to avert disaster and bring about a positive outcome for your household?
Ponder upon these questions and discern if you are acting wisely or acting wisely which can lead to elevated positions and roles of greater influence.
8. The Persistent Widow
The parable of the persistent widow is conveyed by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke (18:1-8) to His disciples to teach them about the importance of always praying and not giving up.
In a certain town, there was a judge who didn’t respect God or care about people. In the same town, there was a widow who kept coming to the judge, asking for justice against her adversary. She repeatedly approaches the unjust judge to grant her justice against her adversary.
For a long time, the judge refused to help her. But eventually, he said to himself, “Even though I don’t fear God or care about people, I will see that she gets justice because she keeps bothering me, and I don’t want her to wear me out with her constant requests.”
Initially, the judge refuses, but her relentless petitions eventually compel him to act in her favor, not out of righteousness but to avoid being worn out by her continuous requests.
Jesus then explained that if an unjust judge can be persuaded to give justice because of persistence, how much more will God, who is just and loving, give justice to His chosen ones who cry out to Him day and night?
The Widow’s Pursuit of Justice and Its Implications
The widow in the parable is symbolic of vulnerable widows in society, lacking a husband’s protection, facing an adversary, and seeking justice from an authority figure who is neither God-fearing nor man-respecting.
Her unyielding determination illustrates the power of tenacity in the face of indifference and corruption. This widow, who had no advocate, took it upon herself to become her own advocate, standing up against injustice persistently until she was heard.
Her story portrays the oppressed and marginalized widows who must follow suit in persistently seeking justice in a righteous endeavor so that even the most callous of hearts can be moved by a widow’s steadfast determination.
God’s Care for the Vulnerable
The widow in the parable represents vulnerable people in society. Jesus’s story highlights that God cares deeply for the vulnerable and will ensure they receive justice. Widows can find comfort in knowing that God is on their side and values them greatly.
Persistence in Prayers
Jesus used this parable to encourage widows to always pray and not lose heart. The persistent widow serves as a reference point for widows, urging them to continue in prayer with faith, despite delays or obstacles.
As a widow, be rest assured that if an unjust judge can grant justice through persistent petitioning, how much more will a just and compassionate God respond to the cries of widows who cry out to Him day and night.
As a matter of fact; how persistent are you?
Let widows draw comfort from the assurance that God is just and that He hears and responds to our prayers.
Trust in His wisdom and be rest assured that He will bring about justice in His time.
9. Bathsheba
Bathsheba’s journey is chronicled in 2 Samuel 11 and onward, where she is initially the wife of Uriah the Hittite, a soldier in King David’s army.
David’s adultery with Bathsheba and his subsequent orchestration of Uriah’s death to cover up the ensuing pregnancy marks one of the darkest episodes in the king’s life.
After Uriah’s death, David marries Bathsheba, and she becomes his widow. However, their first child dies as a consequence of David’s sin, as pronounced by the prophet Nathan.
Bathsheba later gives birth to Solomon, who is loved by the Lord. Her transition from the shadow of scandal to the mother of a future king shows the power of repentance, forgiveness, and the redemptive power of God’s grace.
Her Influence on the Royal Succession
Bathsheba’s influence becomes more evident as the narrative progresses into 1 Kings 1-2. As David’s health declines and his son Adonijah attempts to claim the throne, Bathsheba, advised by the prophet Nathan, approaches the aging king.
She reminds David of his promise that Solomon would reign after him. Bathsheba’s advocacy is pivotal, and David reaffirms his oath, instructing that Solomon be anointed king over Israel.
Her role in securing the succession for Solomon demonstrates her significance within the royal court and her understanding of the political machinations that threatened her son’s ascent to the throne.
Lessons
A. Grace Prevails
The story of Bathsheba holds relevance to widows in modern society as it speaks to the intersection of divine grace, and how they can use their challenging circumstances to their benefit.
In today’s world, widows may face various challenges, including social stigma, financial struggles, and emotional hardship.
However, Bathsheba’s story teaches us that even in the midst of adversity, there is room for redemption and transformation. Divine grace often works through human actions, even flawed ones, to bring about a greater purpose.
I do not know how you became a widow but I want to assure you that grace speaks peace into your soul if you repent of your sins that resulted in your husband’s premature death.
One’s past does not dictate the future, and with wisdom and courage, one can influence the course of history.
Despite the circumstances surrounding her entry into widowhood, she is enveloped by God’s grace, which brings forth a future king of wisdom and prosperity in Solomon.
B. Turn Your Weakness to Armor
Bathsheba’s ability to understand royal politics and actively participate in establishing God’s covenant with Solomon demonstrates the importance of ignoring your downgraded status of widows in modern society to create a positive impact. Widows have the potential to influence their circumstances and shape their future, despite the challenges they may face.
10. Tabitha
Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, is a figure found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 9:36-42).
Tabitha lived in Joppa, a coastal town, and was a disciple characterized by her good works and acts of charity. She was particularly known for making tunics and other garments for the widows in her community.
As a widow, she was dedicated to helping the poor and her reputation for kindness suggests that she was a woman of means who used her resources and skills to benefit those in need.
The Bible recounts that Tabitha fell sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room. The community of believers, hearing that Peter was in nearby Lydda, sent two men to urge him to come quickly.
Upon his arrival, Peter was taken to the room where her body lay, surrounded by grieving widows who showed him the garments Tabitha had made for them.
Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt down, prayed, and turned to her body, saying, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up.
He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called the saints and widows to show them that she was alive. This miracle led many to believe in the Lord.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows and Others
The Impact of Good Deeds
Tabitha was known for her good works and acts of charity. This teaches the importance of helping others and being kind. Widows and others can find fulfillment and create a positive impact by doing good deeds in their communities.
Community and Support
The widows who mourned Tabitha’s death show a strong sense of community and support among them. This highlights the value of building strong, supportive relationships and being there for each other in times of need.
Grief and Remembrance
The widows’ mourning demonstrates the natural process of grieving for a loved one. It is important to remember and honor those who have passed away and to allow oneself to grieve and find comfort in shared memories.
Faith in God’s Power
The miracle of Tabitha being brought back to life shows the power of faith and prayer. Widows and others can be encouraged to have faith in God’s power to bring hope and healing, even in seemingly hopeless situations.
The Importance of Every Individual
Tabitha’s story shows that every individual’s contributions are valuable and can have a lasting impact. Widows and everyone else can understand that their actions, no matter how small, are important and can make a difference.
Leadership and Compassion
Peter’s response to the call for help and his actions in raising Tabitha from the dead show leadership and compassion. This teaches the importance of being responsive to others’ needs and showing compassion and care in times of crisis.
Witness to God’s Work
The miracle led many people in Joppa to believe in the Lord. This demonstrates how acts of faith and God’s miracles can serve as powerful testimonies to others. Widows and others can share their experiences of God’s work in their lives to inspire and encourage faith in others.
11. The Mother of Hiram (Huram) from Tyre
In the Bible, 1 Kings 7:13-14 tells us about a man named Hiram (sometimes called Huram). Hiram was from a city called Tyre. King Solomon, who was the king of Israel, asked Hiram to come to Jerusalem to help with a very important project: building the temple.
Hiram’s mother was a widow from the tribe of Naphtali. This means she belonged to one of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically the tribe of Naphtali. Hiram’s father was not from Israel; he was from Tyre. His father was very good at working with bronze, which is a type of metal.
Hiram learned a lot from his father. He became very skilled at working with bronze too. He could make many different things out of bronze and do it very well. Because of his great skills and wisdom, King Solomon wanted him to work in the temple. The temple was a very special place for the people of Israel, where they worshipped God.
King Solomon knew that Hiram was the right person for the job because of his talent and knowledge. So, Hiram came to Jerusalem to help build and decorate the temple, making many beautiful and important things out of bronze.
Lessons
There are several lessons that present-day widows can learn from the story of Hiram’s mother in the Bible:
Strength and Resilience: Hiram’s mother was a widow, which meant she faced significant challenges. Despite these challenges, she raised a son who became highly skilled and respected. This shows that even in difficult circumstances, widows can find strength and resilience to support their families and help them succeed.
Passing on Skills and Knowledge: Hiram’s father was skilled in working with bronze, and Hiram learned from him. This suggests that widows can pass on valuable skills and knowledge to their children. Teaching children practical skills can help them become successful and self-reliant.
Value in Community and Heritage: Hiram’s mother was from the tribe of Naphtali, and her identity and heritage were important. Widows can find strength in their community and cultural heritage. Being connected to a supportive community can provide emotional and practical support.
Encouraging Talents and Abilities: Hiram became highly skilled and wise, which indicates that his abilities were nurtured. Widows can encourage their children’s talents and abilities, helping them to pursue their interests and develop their skills.
Finding Purpose and Contribution: Hiram made significant contributions by helping build the temple. This shows that everyone, including widows and their children, can find purpose and ways to contribute to their community and society. Widows can inspire their children to use their talents for the greater good.
12. Zeruah, Mother of Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:26)
In 1 Kings 11:26, the Bible mentions Zeruah, the mother of Jeroboam. Here is a simple and detailed explanation of her story and the lessons we can learn from it:
Jeroboam was one of King Solomon’s officials. His mother’s name was Zeruah, and she was a widow. Jeroboam rebelled against King Solomon. The prophet Ahijah told Jeroboam that God would give him control over ten of the twelve tribes of Israel because Solomon and the people had turned away from God.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows
Raising Children with Purpose
Zeruah raised Jeroboam, who became an important leader. This teaches that widows can raise children who go on to do significant things. Widows can instill values and a sense of purpose in their children, helping them achieve great things.
Strength and Resilience
As a widow, Zeruah likely faced many challenges. Despite these, her son rose to a position of influence. This shows the strength and resilience that widows can have, facing and overcoming difficulties to support their families.
Influence and Legacy
Jeroboam’s actions and his role in Israel’s history suggest that Zeruah’s influence as a mother was significant. Widows can understand that their influence on their children can have a lasting impact and leave a legacy.
Coping with Rebellion and Change
Jeroboam rebelled against King Solomon, leading to major changes in Israel. Widows can learn that life may bring unexpected changes and challenges, but they can face these with courage and adaptability.
Faith in God’s Plan
Despite the upheaval, the events in Jeroboam’s life were part of God’s plan. Widows can take comfort in trusting that God has a plan for their lives and their children’s lives, even when things seem uncertain.
13. The Widow With Two Sons (2 Kin 4:1-7)
There was a widow who was in a very difficult situation. Her husband had died, and she was left with two sons. Her husband had been a man who respected and served God, but he left behind a debt when he died. The creditor came to the widow and demanded that she pay the debt. Since she had no money, the creditor threatened to take her two sons as slaves to repay what was owed.
The widow was desperate and didn’t know what to do, so she went to Elisha, a prophet of God, for help. She explained her situation to Elisha, hoping for a solution. Elisha asked her, “What do you have in your house?” The widow replied that she had nothing at all except a small jar of olive oil.
Elisha then gave her instructions. He told her to go to all her neighbors and ask for empty jars. He said to collect as many jars as she could. After gathering the jars, Elisha told her to go inside her house with her sons, shut the door, and start pouring the olive oil into the empty jars. She was to keep pouring until every jar was full.
The widow did exactly as Elisha had told her. She and her sons went out and borrowed many empty jars from their neighbors. Then they went into the house, closed the door, and began to pour the oil from the small jar. Miraculously, the oil kept flowing and filled all the jars. When there were no more empty jars left, the oil stopped flowing.
The widow went back to Elisha and told him what had happened. Elisha then told her to sell the oil, pay off the debt, and live on the money that was left over. This miracle saved the widow’s sons from being taken as slaves and provided for their needs.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows
Turning to God in Times of Need
The widow turned to Elisha, a man of God, for help when she was in a desperate situation. This teaches that in times of need, widows can turn to God and seek His guidance and help. God cares about their struggles and can provide solutions.
Faith and Obedience
The widow had faith in Elisha’s instructions and obeyed them, even though they seemed unusual. This shows the importance of having faith and being obedient to God’s directions, even when they don’t make sense to us. God’s ways are higher than our ways, and He can work miracles through our obedience.
God’s Provision
God provided for the widow’s needs through the miracle of the multiplying oil. This teaches that God is able to provide for all our needs, often in ways we don’t expect. Widows can trust that God will take care of them and their families.
Resourcefulness and Initiative
The widow took initiative by going to Elisha and then actively following his instructions. She was resourceful in gathering the jars and involving her sons in the process. This highlights the importance of being proactive and resourceful in difficult situations.
Community Support
The widow borrowed jars from her neighbors, showing the value of community support. Widows can benefit from seeking help and support from their community and being willing to ask for assistance when needed.
Hope and Deliverance
The widow’s story is one of hope and deliverance. Despite her desperate situation, God delivered her and her sons from bondage. This encourages widows to hold on to hope and trust that God can bring deliverance and blessings, even in the darkest times.
14. Orpah (Ruth 1:1-5)
In the time of the judges, there was a famine in Israel. A man named Elimelech took his wife Naomi and their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion, to live in Moab, a neighboring country. While they were in Moab, Elimelech died, leaving Naomi with her two sons. Her sons married Moabite women, one of whom was Orpah, and the other was Ruth.
After about ten years, Mahlon and Kilion also died, leaving Naomi without her husband and her two sons. Naomi decided to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, because she heard that the famine was over. Naomi told her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their mothers and remarry, as she could not provide them with new husbands.
Initially, both Orpah and Ruth insisted on staying with Naomi. However, Naomi urged them again, explaining that she had no more sons for them to marry and that their best chance at a future was to return to their own people. At this point, Orpah kissed Naomi goodbye and returned to her family, while Ruth clung to Naomi and decided to go with her.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows and Others
Respecting Others’ Decisions
Orpah made a difficult decision to return to her family. This teaches us that people have different ways of handling grief and change, and it’s important to respect their choices. Widows and others can learn to make the best decisions for their own situations, even if it means going in a different direction from loved ones.
Seeking a Practical Path
Orpah’s choice to return to her family and seek a new life shows practicality. She recognized that staying with Naomi might not offer her the security and future she needed. This teaches the importance of making practical decisions in difficult times to secure one’s future.
Honoring Family Ties
By returning to her family, Orpah honored her ties to her own relatives. This shows the importance of maintaining and respecting family connections, especially in times of crisis.
Courage to Start Over
Orpah’s decision required courage. She had to leave Naomi, someone she cared about, to return to her family and start a new life. Widows and others can learn that starting over is sometimes necessary and that it takes courage to make such a change.
Understanding and Compassion
Naomi did not judge Orpah for her decision to leave. Instead, she understood and showed compassion. This teaches us to be compassionate and understanding toward others’ choices, recognizing that each person must follow their own path.
Different Paths, Same Respect
Orpah’s story, alongside Ruth’s, shows that people can choose different paths and still deserve respect and understanding. Orpah returned home, while Ruth stayed with Naomi. Both decisions were valid and shaped their futures. This teaches that there isn’t always a right or wrong choice, but different paths for different people.
15. Ruth (Ruth 1:1-5)
In the time of the judges, there was a famine in Israel. A man named Elimelech took his wife Naomi and their two sons, Mahlon and Kilion, to live in the country of Moab. While they were in Moab, Elimelech died, leaving Naomi with her two sons. Her sons married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth.
About ten years later, both Mahlon and Kilion also died. This left Naomi without her husband and her two sons. Naomi decided to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, because she heard that the famine was over. She told her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their mothers and remarry, as she could not provide them with new husbands.
Initially, both Orpah and Ruth insisted on staying with Naomi. However, Naomi urged them again, explaining that she had no more sons for them to marry and that their best chance at a future was to return to their own people. Orpah kissed Naomi goodbye and returned to her family, but Ruth clung to Naomi and refused to leave her.
Ruth said to Naomi, “Where you go, I will go; and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried.” This showed Ruth’s deep loyalty and love for Naomi.
Ruth and Naomi returned to Bethlehem. Ruth went to work in the fields to gather leftover grain to provide food for herself and Naomi. She happened to work in the field of a man named Boaz, who was a relative of Elimelech. Boaz noticed Ruth and heard about her loyalty to Naomi. He showed her kindness, protected her, and made sure she had plenty of grain to gather.
Naomi realized that Boaz was a family redeemer, a relative who had the right to marry Ruth and take care of their family. Following Naomi’s advice, Ruth approached Boaz and expressed her willingness to marry him. Boaz was impressed by Ruth’s character and agreed to marry her. He went through the proper legal channels to make sure everything was done correctly.
Boaz and Ruth got married, and they had a son named Obed. Obed later became the grandfather of King David, making Ruth an ancestor of Jesus Christ.
Lessons for Present-Day Widows and Others
Loyalty and Love
Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi teaches the importance of loyalty and love in relationships. She chose to stay with Naomi despite the hardships, showing that true loyalty can bring great blessings.
Faith and Trust in God
Ruth adopted Naomi’s faith in God, saying, “Your God will be my God.” This shows her willingness to trust in the God of Israel, even though she was from Moab. Widows and others can learn the importance of having faith and trusting in God’s plan.
Hard Work and Diligence
Ruth worked hard in the fields to provide for Naomi and herself. Her diligence and work ethic are exemplary. This teaches that hard work and perseverance are valuable traits that can lead to great rewards.
Seek Guidance and Wisdom:
Ruth listened to Naomi’s advice and followed her guidance, which led to her marriage to Boaz. This shows the importance of seeking and following wise counsel, especially from those with more experience.
Kindness and Generosity
Boaz’s kindness and generosity towards Ruth teach us the importance of being kind and generous to others, especially those in need. His actions made a significant difference in Ruth and Naomi’s lives.
Redemption and New Beginnings
Ruth’s marriage to Boaz and the birth of their son Obed show that there can be redemption and new beginnings even after great loss and hardship. This gives hope to widows and others that new and joyful chapters can come after difficult times.
God’s Sovereignty and Plan
The story of Ruth illustrates God’s sovereignty and His greater plan. Ruth, a Moabite woman, became an ancestor of Jesus Christ, showing that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes.
Conclusion
The stories of the widows in the Bible bring to life a spectrum of virtues of widows. They inspire us to rise above our circumstances, to act with righteousness, and to maintain hope and faith in times of despair.
In a modern context, their stories remind us that personal hardship can catalyze growth and that our actions, imbued with faith and dedication, can significantly impact our communities.
The biblical widows encourage us to be steadfast in our prayers, generous in our service, and wise in our interventions, assuring us that such qualities are good and always bear fruit.
