Women of the Bible

Inspired by Max Lucado’s Ten Women of the Bible, this series dives into the lives of diverse women in Scripture to discover how God chooses the ordinary and the imperfect to play an extraordinary role in His story.

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PursueGOD is a new kind of discipleship curriculum for an increasingly complicated world. We use podcasts on a variety of topics to offer no-nonsense answers to everyday questions. Then we organize these podcasts into series so you can use them to make disciples at church, home, or in the world. Here’s how it works:

  1. Pick a series from our homepage. There's plenty to choose from!
  2. Each series contains multiple lessons. Click on the numbered tabs to open each lesson.
  3. Start by listening to the podcast on your own, before you meet as a group. Take notes as needed, and listen again if it helps. Consider starting a discipleship journal to track what you're learning.
  4. Meet as a group to talk through what you learned from the podcast. Each lesson includes shownotes, talking points, and discussion questions. Click on the # tab to explore additional topics.
  5. Listen to the podcast above for more helpful tips or check out one of our many training series.

Shownotes

Sarah: Faith in the Uncomfortable

Have you ever felt like God left you in an unfamiliar, uncomfortable place, and you lacked the faith to get through it? Whether it’s a move to a new city, a health crisis, or a dream that seems to be on permanent delay, we all face seasons where God’s promises feel distant. Sarah’s story in the book of Genesis is a raw, honest look at what happens when our timing doesn’t match God’s timing.

Sarah lived a life of significant transition. She left her home in Ur to follow a call to Canaan, all while dealing with the deep personal pain of barrenness. In a culture where children represented status and legacy, Sarah felt “less than” and lost. Yet, God repeatedly promised her husband, Abraham, that they would have descendants as numerous as the dust of the earth.

The Struggle of the Wait

The tension in Sarah’s life came from the gap between the promise and the fulfillment. While God reiterated His covenant multiple times (Genesis 12, 13, 15, and 17), the years continued to pass with no child. This 25-year wait led to several “Sarah moments” that many of us can relate to:

  • Impatience: Sarah tried to “help” God by having Abraham father a child through her servant, Hagar.

  • Consequences: This attempt to take control led to jealousy, resentment, and unnecessary conflict.

  • Cynicism: When God finally gave a specific timeline, Sarah laughed in disbelief.

A Covenant Based on God Alone

A turning point in understanding this story is found in Genesis 15. In ancient times, a “blood covenant” involved both parties walking through sacrificed animals, essentially saying, “May I be killed if I don’t keep my word.” However, when God sealed His promise to Abraham, He caused Abraham to fall into a deep sleep. God alone passed through the pieces. This signifies that the promise didn’t depend on Abraham or Sarah’s perfection—it depended entirely on God’s faithfulness.

Trusting the Path

Sarah eventually gave birth to Isaac (which means “laughter”) at 90 years old. Her story teaches us that God’s timing is not always our timing, but it is never wrong. He is not bound by space or time, and He sees the beginning from the end. When we face our own unfamiliar places, we are called to lean not on our own understanding, but to let the Lord determine our steps.

Talking Points:
  • Many of us face “Sarah moments” when we find ourselves in uncomfortable or unfamiliar territory, feeling as though God has ignored our prayers or left us to handle a difficult situation alone. Genesis 12:1-4
  • While we naturally want to jump into the driver’s seat and “help” God fulfill His promises through our own efforts, taking control usually leads to more confusion, resentment, and unnecessary consequences. Genesis 16:1-4
  • Genesis 15 shows us that God’s covenant depends entirely on His own faithfulness; by passing through the sacrifice alone while Abraham slept, God proved that the promise rests on His character, not our performance. Genesis 15:12-18, Hebrews 6:13-17
  • Sarah’s cynical laughter at age 90 reminds us that God isn’t intimidated by our disbelief or the “impossibility” of our circumstances; He is powerful enough to turn our deepest doubts into a testimony of joy. Genesis 21:1-7
  • Faith isn’t about having all the answers or a perfect plan; it’s about learning to wait on God’s timing and trusting that He orders our steps even when the path doesn’t make sense to us. Psalm 37:5, Proverbs 3:5-6
Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Have you ever been in an “unfamiliar or uncomfortable” place where you felt ignored by God? How did that affect your relationship with God?
  3. Sarah tried to “help” God by involving Hagar. Why is it so tempting to take control when we feel God isn’t moving fast enough?
  4. Discuss the covenant in Genesis 15. How does it change your perspective to know that God’s faithfulness depends on Him and not on your ability to be perfect?
  5. Sarah laughed because she thought she was too old for a miracle. What is a “too late” or “impossible” situation in your life that you need to surrender to God?
  6. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us not to depend on our own understanding. Give an example of a time when your “understanding” of a situation was completely different from what God was actually doing.
  7. How can you practically “position yourself” this week to trust God’s timing in a specific area where you’ve been feeling impatient?

Shownotes

Rahab: The God Who Redeems Your Story

Have you ever felt like you’ve gone too far for God to still love you? Maybe there’s a part of your past you wish you could erase. Maybe you’ve made decisions that still haunt you, or maybe shame keeps whispering that God could never truly use someone like you. That’s exactly why the story of Rahab matters so much.

In Joshua 2, we meet Rahab, a woman living in Jericho—a city known for idol worship, immorality, and rebellion against God. Rahab herself was a prostitute, someone most people would assume God would overlook or exclude from His plans. Yet amazingly, God not only notices Rahab—He redeems her story and gives her a place in His greater purpose.

As the Israelites approached the Promised Land, Joshua sent two spies into Jericho. Those spies ended up staying at Rahab’s house. When the king of Jericho found out, he demanded that Rahab hand the men over. Instead, Rahab hid the spies and protected them, risking her own life in the process.

Why would she do that? Because Rahab had heard about the God of Israel.

Joshua 2:11 (NLT)
“For the Lord your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below.”

Rahab believed that the God of Israel was the true God. Even though she came from a pagan culture and had lived a sinful life, something in her heart recognized the power and truth of God. She acted in faith, trusting that God could save her and her family.

The spies promised Rahab protection. They instructed her to hang a scarlet rope from her window so that when Jericho fell, her household would be spared. That scarlet cord became a symbol of salvation and rescue.

What makes Rahab’s story so incredible is not just that she survived Jericho—it’s what happened after. Rahab joined the people of Israel. She married into the community. She became the mother of Boaz, the great-grandmother of King David, and ultimately part of the family line of Jesus Himself.

Think about that for a moment.

God could have hidden Rahab’s past. He could have quietly erased her from the story. Instead, Scripture highlights her. She’s even listed in Hebrews 11—the “Hall of Faith”—as an example of genuine faith and courage.

Hebrews 11:31 (NLT)
“It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God.”

That title—“Rahab the prostitute”—remains attached to her story, not to shame her, but to magnify the grace of God. Her identity was no longer defined by her past. God redeemed her life completely.

That’s the beauty of the gospel.

God doesn’t wait for us to clean ourselves up before He welcomes us. He meets us in our brokenness and offers us a new beginning. Rahab had nothing impressive to offer God. She simply responded in faith. And God transformed her future.

Maybe you can relate to Rahab more than you’d like to admit. Maybe your story includes seasons of rebellion, compromise, addiction, shame, bitterness, or regret. Maybe you’ve wondered if God could ever truly forgive you or use you again.

Rahab’s story answers that question clearly: yes.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)
“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”

When we trust in Jesus, God doesn’t merely improve our old life—He gives us a brand new identity. The cross is proof that God specializes in redemption. He takes what is broken and makes it beautiful. He restores what sin has destroyed.

Galatians 2:20 (NLT)
“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”

That doesn’t mean we ignore our sin or pretend our past never happened. Rahab’s past was real. But it also means our failures no longer have the final word. God’s grace does.

Rahab’s story reminds us that no one is too far gone for God. His mercy reaches into the darkest places. His grace rewrites stories. His love restores what shame tries to bury.

So whatever your past may hold, don’t stay stuck there. Bring it to Jesus. Leave it at the foot of the cross. The same God who redeemed Rahab’s story is still redeeming lives today.

You are not beyond His reach. You are not disqualified from His grace. And in Christ, your story is never over.

Talking Points:

  • Rahab was a pagan prostitute living in Jericho, yet God saw her faith and used her powerfully in His story. Joshua 2:1-11

  • Rahab risked her life to protect the Israelite spies because she believed the God of Israel was the true God. Joshua 2:8-14

  • God didn’t erase Rahab’s past—He redeemed it. Rahab became part of the family line of King David and ultimately Jesus Himself. Matthew 1:5

  • In Christ, we are made new. Our past no longer defines us because Jesus gives us a new identity and a fresh start. 2 Corinthians 5:17

  • God specializes in redemption. He takes broken stories and transforms them for His glory and our good. Galatians 2:20

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. What stands out to you most about Rahab’s story and why?
  3. Rahab lived in a culture that was “sex-craved” and had no fear of God. In what ways do you see our modern culture mirroring the environment of Jericho?
  4. “Have you ever felt like you’ve gone too far for God to still love you?” Why is this such a common lie we believe, even after coming to faith?
  5. Why do you think God intentionally included Rahab in the lineage of Jesus instead of hiding her past?
  6. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17. How does the promise of being a “new person” help us deal with the shame of our past mistakes or seasons of rebellion?
  7. What does it practically look like to leave your old life behind and walk in your new identity in Christ?
  8. Is there an area of your life where you need to trust God’s grace and redemption more deeply right now?

Click for Shownotes

Abigail: The Courage to Be a Peacemaker

Have you ever found yourself at odds with someone and wondered if reconciliation was even possible? Maybe there’s a relationship strained by hurt, misunderstanding, or disappointment. In 1 Samuel 25, we meet a woman named Abigail who faced an impossible conflict and chose the difficult path of peacemaking. Her story reminds us that God can use ordinary people to bring peace into extraordinary situations.

Abigail was married to a wealthy man named Nabal. Scripture describes Abigail as sensible and beautiful, while Nabal was known for being crude, selfish, and difficult. His foolish decisions regularly created problems for those around him. When David and his men, who had protected Nabal’s flocks, requested food during a feast, Nabal refused and insulted David. In response, David became furious and prepared to attack Nabal’s household in revenge.

When Abigail learned what was happening, she acted immediately. Without wasting time, she gathered food and supplies and went out to meet David before violence could occur. She risked her own safety by stepping between two powerful and angry men. Abigail knew her husband was wrong, yet she was willing to intervene in hopes of preventing disaster. Her actions reveal remarkable courage, wisdom, and humility.

As Abigail approached David, she humbled herself and appealed to him with wisdom. She reminded him that God had chosen him to lead Israel and encouraged him not to stain his future with unnecessary bloodshed. Instead of fueling David’s anger, she redirected his focus toward God’s purposes. Her words softened his heart, and David chose not to carry out his plan for revenge. Abigail’s intervention became the turning point that prevented tragedy.

What gave Abigail the courage to do this? The answer is found in her fear of the Lord. She did not allow fear of her husband or fear of David’s army to control her actions. Her confidence came from trusting God. Because she feared God most, she was able to reflect His peace, wisdom, and grace when everyone else was acting out of anger and pride.

Peacemaking is rarely easy. There is always risk involved. We may fear rejection. We may have to confront our own mistakes. We may need to engage in difficult conversations that require humility and vulnerability. Yet Abigail’s story reminds us that God often works through those willing to take the first step toward peace.

The Bible consistently calls believers to pursue peace. In the NIV translation, Romans 12:18 says, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” Notice that Paul adds, “if possible, as far as it depends on you.” We cannot control another person’s response, but we can control our own willingness to forgive, reconcile, and extend grace. Sometimes the other person may not be ready. In those situations, we continue praying and keeping our hearts soft before God.

Jesus raised the standard even higher when He taught His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This kind of love is not natural; it is supernatural. It reflects the heart of God, who showed grace to us when we least deserved it. When we choose peace over revenge and forgiveness over resentment, we demonstrate the gospel in action.

Perhaps there is someone in your life right now with whom you are not at peace. Maybe the relationship has been broken for years. Abigail’s story challenges us to pray for wisdom, seek opportunities for reconciliation, and trust God with the results. We are called to be peacemakers, not because it is easy, but because it reflects the character of Christ. As God gives us grace, wisdom, and courage, He can use us to bring healing where conflict once existed.

Talking Points:
  • Peacemakers step into difficult situations. Abigail could have stayed out of the conflict, but she courageously acted to prevent disaster. God often uses people willing to take the first step toward peace.
  • God gives wisdom to those who trust Him. Abigail spoke with grace and discernment because her confidence came from the Lord, not from herself. God still provides wisdom for difficult relationships today. 1 Samuel 25:32-33, James 1:5
  • Peacemaking requires humility. Abigail set aside pride and risked her own comfort to help others. Reconciliation often begins when we are willing to humble ourselves. 1 Samuel 25:24, Philippians 2:3-4
  • We are called to pursue peace, not control outcomes. Abigail did her part, but David still had to choose how he would respond. Our responsibility is to seek peace and trust God with the results. Romans 12:18
  • Peacemaking reflects the heart of Jesus. Loving difficult people, extending grace, and pursuing reconciliation are powerful ways to demonstrate God’s love to others and for us. Matthew 5:43-44, Ephesians 4:32
Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Have you ever experienced reconciliation with someone after a conflict? What helped make that possible?
  3. What fears or other things keep us from pursuing peace with others?
  4. In the NIV, Romans 12:18 says, “If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” What does “as far as it depends on you” look like in a difficult relationship?
  5. What would it look like for you to be known as a peacemaker in your family, friendships, workplace, or church?
  6. What is the difference between being a peacemaker and being a people-pleaser?
  7. How often do you ask God for wisdom? James 1:5
  8. What does it practically look like to love and pray for someone who has hurt or disappointed you? Matthew 5:43-44
  9. Is there a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation? What might your next step be?

Click for Shownotes

Esther: Courage for Such a Time as This

Have you ever felt God nudging you to stand up for something—or someone—even though it might cost you? Maybe it’s speaking up for biblical truth in a culture that disagrees with you. Maybe it’s defending someone who has been mistreated. Maybe it’s taking a stand when staying silent would be easier.

That’s exactly the situation Esther faced.

The book of Esther tells the story of a young Jewish woman who unexpectedly became queen of the Persian Empire. Although God’s name is never mentioned in the book, His presence and providence are evident on every page. Esther’s story reminds us that God is always at work, even when He seems silent.

God Places People Where They Need to Be

The story begins with King Xerxes removing Queen Vashti from her position. A search is launched for a new queen, and Esther, a young Jewish woman being raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen. Mordecai instructs Esther not to reveal her Jewish heritage, and she eventually becomes queen.

At first, these events may seem random. But later we discover that God was positioning Esther exactly where she needed to be for a much greater purpose.

Meanwhile, Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and reports it through Esther, saving the king’s life. This seemingly small act becomes an important piece of God’s plan later in the story. Esther 2:21-23.

Courage in the Face of Injustice

The conflict intensifies when Haman, a powerful official in the empire, becomes enraged because Mordecai refuses to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman convinces King Xerxes to issue a decree ordering the destruction of all Jewish people throughout the empire. Esther 3:13.

When Mordecai learns about the decree, he challenges Esther to intervene. Yet approaching the king without an invitation could result in death.

Mordecai responds with one of the most famous statements in Scripture:

“Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 (NLT)

Esther had a choice. She could remain silent and protect herself, or she could courageously step forward and trust God with the outcome.

Like Esther, we often face moments where doing the right thing requires courage. Faith doesn’t eliminate fear—it empowers us to obey God despite it.

God’s Invisible Hand at Work

As the story unfolds, God orchestrates a series of remarkable events.

King Xerxes experiences a sleepless night and discovers that Mordecai had never been honored for saving his life. Ironically, Haman is asked how the king should honor someone special, assuming the king is talking about him. Instead, Haman is forced to publicly honor Mordecai—the very man he planned to destroy.

Soon afterward, Esther reveals Haman’s plot and her own Jewish identity. The king is outraged and acts to protect Esther and her people. Haman’s plans collapse, and the Jewish people are saved. Esther’s willingness to act became the means God used to rescue an entire nation.

Trusting God When He Seems Silent

One of the most powerful lessons from Esther is that God is working even when we cannot see Him.

The Jewish people were living in exile, far from their homeland. It would have been easy to believe God had forgotten them. Yet every detail of the story reveals His providence. Before the crisis ever came, God already had the right people in the right places.

Romans 8:28 reminds us:

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 (NLT)

God was working behind the scenes in Esther’s life, and He is working behind the scenes in ours.

For Such a Time as This

Perhaps God is calling you to stand up for someone who needs help. Maybe He’s asking you to speak truth in a difficult situation or trust Him in the middle of something that feels unfair.

Like Esther, you may not feel ready. You may feel afraid.

But God is still the same God who guided Esther. He is powerful, just, loving, and faithful. He sees what is happening in your life, and He is already at work in ways you cannot yet see.

Hebrews 4:16 encourages us:

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (NLT)

Whatever challenge you are facing today, trust God with it. Pray for courage. Pray for wisdom. And remember that perhaps God has placed you exactly where you are—for such a time as this.

Talking Points:
  • God often places us in specific situations for a greater purpose, even when we can’t see the full picture. Esther became queen at exactly the right time to help save her people. Esther 2:17, Esther 4:14
  • Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear. Esther was afraid to approach the king, but she trusted God and chose obedience anyway. Esther 4:15-16
  • God is always working behind the scenes, even when He seems silent. His name is never mentioned in Esther, yet His hand is evident throughout the entire story. Romans 8:28
  • God can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Esther wasn’t a warrior or a political leader, but God used her willingness to make a huge impact. 
  • When we face difficult situations, we can confidently bring them to God and trust Him to provide wisdom, strength, and help. Hebrews 4:16

Discussion:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. Have you ever felt God prompting you to stand up for something or someone? What happened?
  3. Why do you think Esther was hesitant to approach the king? How would you have felt in her situation?
  4. What parts of Esther’s story most clearly show God’s providence and guidance?
  5. How does Esther’s story help you trust God’s sovereignty when life feels unfair or out of control?
  6. Have you ever gone through a season when God seemed silent? Looking back, can you now see ways He was working behind the scenes?
  7. Esther called for fasting before taking action. How can prayer or fasting better prepare you for difficult conversations or decisions?
  8. If God has placed you “for such a time as this” in your family, workplace, church, or community, what might He be asking you to do right now? Or is there a situation in your life right now that requires courage, faith, or trust in God? How can you respond like Esther?

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