ChangeMakers: Unsung Women of the Bible (Vol 2)ნიმუში

The Wise Woman

The Bible is full of courageous, brave women who had to rely on wisdom and discernment to fulfill God’s purpose. The Wise Woman of 2 Samual 20 is one such hero. While she remains unnamed, her willingness to speak the truth amid chaos and war had a ripple effect on all the people of her city.

We meet our Wise Woman at the end of one of Israel's civil wars. I envision her as the Hebrew version of Harriet Tubman. But instead of the underground railroad, in 2 Samuel 20, we are introduced to the peaceful, faithful city of Abel Beth Maacah and a woman willing to call for a man's head to be cut off to save her people. Location in the Bible is very important for context, although we sometimes read over it. This city (yes, Able Beth Maacah is the name of the city) holds significance throughout Israel’s history. It represents land where problems were solved with nonviolence. Where wisdom prevailed, and women specifically were centered. It was specifically known as a peaceful, faithful city (2 Samual 20:19).

In 2 Samuel 20:14-22, we encounter a fierce woman who embodies courage, wisdom, and holy rebellion with every stride. Joab's army surrounds her city, determined to capture the rebel Sheba ben Bikri. She is the voice of reason, offering a resolution that saves her walled city from destruction.

Do you feel the tension when reading this? Why would God require such a violent resolution in a city known for being peaceful? And how did this Wise Woman have the courage to relay the message?

Peace and protection don't often coexist. But in this instance, God blended the two to save Able Beth Maacah and its people. The Wise Woman acted out of courage and obedience as a momma bear, following God's guidance and direction to protect Israel's peaceful legacy.

When we look at our pursuits of justice, no matter the context, we can learn a lot from her. We must meet crisis with courage, especially when confronted with the threat of violence. When faced with imminent war, she does not succumb to fear. She faces the crisis with courage and wisdom, knowing God calls us to walk boldly and intentionally through the fire when others' instinct is to panic and flee. Her courage is not reckless but steady and full of purpose. Her Godly wisdom is power that diffuses violent conflict and shows strength in humble submission to God. She embodies Proverbs 2:6, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Prayer & Meditation

Throughout this plan, we will practice the spiritual formation rhythm ofvisio divina, a form of prayer and meditation through art. Consider the image above. When you look into her eyes, what do you feel? Can you hear her resounding battle cry? One of resilience and strength? She is not silenced or muzzled but rather meek and in control.

In a world torn by conflict, may we strive to be like this wise ChangeMaker. She is quick to listen, reacts in love, and always seeks wisdom that leads to peacemaking. Her actions remind us that wisdom and peace are unstoppable tools of justice and healing, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Reflect on your own life. Where is God calling you to be more peaceful? Where is He urging you to act with courage, boldness, and wisdom?

Written by Joy Flores

Photo Credit: Lessons from The Wise Woman of Able Beth Maakah at Oneinspiredmum