Good morning,
“10 women in the Bible who exceeded expectations.
Immediately we can think of women in the Bible like Mary, Eve, Sarah, Miriam, Esther, Ruth, Naomi, Deborah, and Mary Magdalene. But there are others that have only a small appearance in the Bible, some as few as one verse.
While plenty of women in the Bible were strong, capable women, these ladies didn’t sit around waiting for someone else to get the job done. They feared God and lived faithfully. They did what they needed to do.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)
This week we will look at some of the lesser-known women in the Bible. They will challenge us in our walk with the Lord.
7. Lydia
“Lydia was one of the first converts to Christianity. In Acts 16:14-15, she is described as a worshiper of God and a businesswoman with a family. The Lord opened her heart, and she and her entire household were baptized. She then opened her house to Paul and his companions, offering hospitality to the missionaries.
Lydia in the Bible – Acts 16:14-15
“A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home.” And she prevailed upon us.”
How she exceeded expectations:
Lydia was part of a group that met for prayer by the river; they did not have a synagogue, as synagogues required at least 10 Jewish men. Being a seller of purple cloth, she would have been wealthy; yet, she humbled herself offering hospitality to others. Luke mentions Lydia by name, noting her importance in this record of history.” (Kate Edwards is a School Chaplain, Kid’s Ministry Leader and aspiring Bible Scholar. http://www.thenurturedword.com/)
Lydia challenges us to use what we have for God. A brand new believer, she uses her wealth and home to minister to Paul and his associates. When Paul and Silas are released from jail, Acts 16:40, they went to the house of Lydia.
Not all ministry is preaching and teaching. Prayer, helps, logistics, food, and lodging are required for the gospel message to go forward.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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