Moses. Abraham. Noah. Paul. Jesus.
These are often some of the first names that come to mind when we think of great role models from the Bible. However, there are also many great women in the Bible who demonstrate the character traits we strive to develop and employ in our own lives. Take a closer look at Mary and four other female characters to discover what makes them good role models.
Mary demonstrates bravery and a servant heart (Luke 1:26-56).
Initially troubled by the angel Gabriel’s greeting from the Lord, Mary took his advice to be unafraid as she received the news that she would give birth to the Son of God. Though the news would have been particularly hard to swallow as a young, engaged woman, Mary embraced it as a servant of the Lord and sent her praises to God.
Rebekah demonstrates hospitality and a desire to fulfill God’s will (Genesis 24).
Abraham’s senior servant encountered Rebekah at a well while searching his master’s homeland to find a bride for Isaac. When asked, she immediately put the needs of the man and his camels first by offering them water and a place to stay. Rebekah was also eager to fulfill the Lord’s will when it became clear that He intended for her to become Isaac’s bride. Though her family requested more time with Rebekah, she willingly went with the servant right away to meet and marry her groom.
Ruth demonstrates loyalty (Ruth 1-4).
After the death of her father-in-law, husband, and brother-in-law, Ruth insistently clung to her mother-in-law Naomi’s side instead of returning to her own family and homeland. Together they made the journey to Naomi’s homeland where Ruth married a relative of Naomi’s husband and bore a son to carry on the family name.
Hannah demonstrates great faith, prayer, and praise (1 Samuel 1-2:11).
Though she struggled with grief and bitterness as the result of being barren, Hannah exhibited great faith by continually taking her infertility to the Lord in prayer. After the long-awaited birth of her son Samuel, whom she dedicated to the Lord, Hannah praised God in prayer for his gift.
Abigail demonstrates wisdom and compassion (1 Samuel 25).
When Abigail’s husband refused to show kindness and generosity to David and his men, she bravely stepped up to create peace between the two parties. Her quick, kindhearted offering of food and drink to David and his men saved the lives of many in her community.
