Virtuous Woman - ExcellenceSample

Dignity

Character Goal: Dignity is the state or quality of being worthy of honor, respect, and value in the sight of God.

Biblical Character: Hagar

Scripture Readings: Genesis 16:1‑11, 13‑16

Discussion Questions:

• Who was Hagar? What did both Abram and Sarai refer to her as?
• What did Sarai want to use her for? What does this tell us about Sarai’s view of Hagar and her worth?
• Did the actions of Abram and Sarai dignify Hagar or demean her? Give examples.
• Did Abram listen to Sarai’s plan? What happened?
• How did Hagar feel towards Sarai after realizing she was pregnant?
• What did Hagar do in response to Sarai’s mistreatment of her? Describe how you think Hagar might have felt.
• Who found Hagar at her lowest point? Was she looking for Him? What does this tell us about God?
• What was the first word the Angel of the Lord said when speaking to her? What does this tell us about God and how He views us?
• What did the Angel of the Lord ask Hagar? Do you think He already knew the answers to His questions? If so, why do you think He asked?
• How did Hagar respond to Him?
• What did He tell her to do? Why do you think He wanted her to do this?
• What did the Angel of the Lord tell Hagar concerning her future? What do you think this did for her?
• Who named her son? What is the meaning of this name? How do you think this name and its meaning would comfort her in the future? What does this tell us about how God cares for us?
• What name did Hagar give to God? Why?
• Based on Abram and Sarai’s actions, how did they view Hagar? Based on God’s actions, how do you think God viewed Hagar?
• Should God’s or others’ views of us define our dignity? Why? As a female athlete, how can the knowledge of God and knowing how He views you impact the way you live? How you treat your teammates?
• What does this story teach you about God? Women? How can you apply these truths to your life?
• What is one thing I learned from this story that I can apply to my life before the next lesson?

Core Truths:

• Even though others may see us as something to be used, God sees us as a person of great value.
• God’s view of us should be what defines our worth.
• God hears the prayers of and is near to the broken‑hearted.

Training for Godliness:

Have you ever felt “used” by a coach or teammate to accomplish what they wanted—a statistic, championship, popularity, etc? How did that affect you and the way you played? How can you, like Hagar, change your attitude even if you can’t change your circumstances? Looking in Scripture to see whom God sees us to be—blessed, forgiven, dearly loved. This will help give us a right understanding regarding ourselves, regardless of our circumstances.

Memory Verse: “Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come.” -Proverbs 31:25