Esther

• The Old Testament story of Esther tells of a strong young Jewish woman living under Persian rule who demonstrated wisdom, commitment to her people and trust in God. Studying her story helps explain how challenging adversity with grace and patience can lead to great accomplishments.
  
  

Ruth and Naomi

• Ruth and Naomi demonstrate the benefits of loyalty between women. Ruth became a young widow when her first husband, Naomi's son, passed away. Ruth refused to abandon Naomi, in spite of having no obligation to stay with her. As a result, she met Boaz, a rich male relative of Naomi, and eventually married him by following Naomi's advice.
  
  

Women Involved in Jesus' Ministry

• Many women had a place in the life and ministry of Jesus. His mother, Mary, stands as one of the most dedicated servants of God in the Bible. She accepted the task of giving birth to and raising Jesus with grace and humility, setting a positive example for women who study her passages. Other women also played various roles throughout the ministry, such as the Samaritan woman at the well and especially Mary Magdalene.
  
  

Examples of Women with Power

• The Bible also has several accounts of women in the roles of rulers and prophetesses. Deborah, whose story exists in the book of Judges, acted as a judge and prophetess who led her people to victory against the Canaanites. Other female rulers mentioned in the Bible include Athaliah, the Queen of Sheba and Queen Candace. Other women hailed as prophets include Miriam, Huldah, Noadiah and Anna.
  
  

Wicked Women

• The Bible also contains several examples of wicked women and women responsible for evil deeds. Studying these women provides insight on how not to behave. Eve yielded to temptation and seduced her husband into doing the same. Lot's wife disobeyed her instructions and turned back to look on the destruction of Sodom. Potiphar's wife lusted after and slandered the name of Joseph. Delilah conspired against Samson. Jezebel persecuted followers of God.
  
  

Women in Ministry

• Read passages that address the topic of women in ministry. Look through both the Old Testament and New Testament, noting examples of strong women who played an active role in leading God's people. Consider how these passages weigh on the subject of women performing active roles in ministry today.