Strong Women of Faith in the Bible: Stories of Courage and Trust in God
I’ve often read the stories of strong women of faith in the Bible and wondered, Can I be as strong as they were? These women were courageous, lived in a different time, and faced challenges and realities that seem so different from my own. But after some deep reflection, I’ve realized something important: we are all strong women. The strength we admire in these biblical women is not out of reach—it’s within us, waiting to be realized.
I’ve chosen several women from the Bible to highlight their journeys and the remarkable things they did. Their stories can inspire us and help us embrace our own strength and faith in today’s world.
My own journey with faith began as a little girl when my grandmother would pick me up on Sundays to take me to church. My mom was a believer, but she wasn’t as involved in church life as my grandmother. My grandmother has always been a pillar of strength and faith for me, and she continues to inspire me to this day.
Faith has always felt like a chosen path for me. It was never something forced or pushed on me. I attended church when I wanted to, and over time, it became one of the biggest parts of my life. In high school, I even taught Sunday school for a brief period. Faith has been my focus ever since, even though I know I’m far from perfect!
Let’s move on to strong women of faith in the bible! As you read on, I hope these biblical examples encourage you, as they have encouraged me, to be strong women of faith in our everyday lives.
Deborah: Judges 4-5
In the book of Judges 4-5, the Bible tells the story of Deborah. Deborah was chosen by God to lead the people of Israel against the Canaanites. Deborah was a wife who God chose to be a prophet and a judge. Deborah was very courageous as she led an army as a woman. Proving God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things therefore we should listen to him when he is calling us to do his work today. We may not live in the same time as Deborah but God is asking us to stand up and fight for his kingdom.
Deborah’s story proves that women are not less than men and God chose you to be who you are. We should listen and talk to God so that God can guide us through the work of making this world understand him. Deborah’s story encourages me to respond with courage because even though I might not lead an actual army, I feel the urge to lead people reading to know his word.
Esther: Book of Ester
Esther is a powerful example of courage and faith. She risked her life to save the Jewish people and is honored with an entire book in the Bible. Esther became queen after marrying King Ahasuerus but kept her Jewish identity a secret. When she learned that one of the king’s officials planned to kill all the Jews, she decided to act, even though approaching the king without permission could lead to death.
After praying and fasting for three days, Esther told the king about the plot and revealed that she was Jewish. The king was very angry and had the official executed. He then allowed the Jews to defend themselves, leading to their victory. This event is celebrated as Purim, a reminder of Esther’s bravery and God’s protection.
Esther’s story shows how trusting in God gives us the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. Esther prayed and fasted for three days in order to hear from God if she should do it. God answered her and she went to the king with courage. This book shows that if we trust in God as Esther did, we will have more courage to do the right thing.
Ruth: Book of Ruth
The Book of Ruth, found in the Old Testament, is a beautiful love story. It begins with Naomi, a widow who loses her husband and two sons while living in Moab. One of her daughters-in-law, Ruth, decides to stay with Naomi even though she could go back to her own family. Ruth’s words: “Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay.”
The two women travel to Bethlehem, where Ruth works in the fields of Boaz, a kind and wealthy relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz sees Ruth’s hard work and how she treats Naomi, and he provides for her and Naomi. Eventually, Boaz fulfills his role as a kinsman-redeemer, marrying Ruth and providing for Naomi.
Ruth and Boaz have a son, Obed, the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth in Jesus Christ’s lineage. God gave Ruth the greatest gift, a child. This story highlights God’s redemption, guidance, and inclusion of all people in His plan.
Ruth shows strength through her loyalty, courage, and hard work. She chooses to stay with Naomi, leaving her own family behind. Despite being a foreigner, she bravely works in the fields to provide for them. Ruth is taking the initiative to ensure they survive and she never loses her faith in God. She handles challenges with grace, making her a strong and inspiring woman.
Hannah: 1 Samuel 1-2
Hannah was married to Elkanah, but she was not able to have children. To make matters worse, Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, made fun of her for it. Despite everything, Hannah remained faithful and prayed about it.
Hannah prayed at the temple of the Lord, asking for a son and promising him to the Lord if her prayer was answered. Eli, the priest, saw her praying silently and initially thought she was a drunk. When she explained her her troubles, Eli blessed her and prayed for her.
God answered Hannah’s prayer, and she gave birth to a son, Samuel. 1 Samuel 1:27 – “I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him.” True to her vow, Hannah brought Samuel to the house of the Lord once he was weaned and dedicated him to God.
Hannah prayed for a child and dedicated him to God showing perseverance in prayer! Samuel grew up to become one of Israel’s greatest prophets, showing how God used Hannah’s faithfulness to accomplish His purposes.
Hannah’s story reminds us of the power of prayer, trust in God, and keeping our promises to Him.
Mary: Luke 1-2
Mary was engaged to Joseph when an angel of the Lord appeared to her with incredible news- she would give birth to a son and name Him Jesus, the Son of God. Naturally, Mary had questions. She was a virgin, so how. The angel assured her that God’s power would make it possible.
Mary’s response showed her true strength:
“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”
She didn’t hesitate. She trusted God’s plan even when it didn’t make sense. That trust and obedience are a beautiful example of faith.
As Jesus grew, it became clear that He was the promised Messiah. The story of His life and sacrifice is one we all know, but it began with Mary’s willingness to say yes to God.
Mary’s strength wasn’t just in her faith, it was in her surrender. She didn’t need all the answers; she needed to trust. That kind of strength is a reminder for us: when God calls us to something bigger than we think we can handle, He will provide the way if we are willing to listen.
Let her story inspire you to trust His plan, even when it feels impossible.
Mary Magdalene: Luke 8:1-3, John 19:25, & John 20:16-18
Mary Magdalene is one of the most important women in the Bible. Her story is an example of strength, transformation, and devotion to Jesus.
We first read about Mary in Luke 8:1-3, where she is one of the women who followed Jesus. She had been freed from seven demons. Mary’s strength began when she was willing to leave behind her brokenness and walk in the new life with Jesus.
Throughout Jesus’ ministry, Mary Magdalene stayed with Him, supporting Him and His disciples. While many of His followers fled in fear when Jesus was crucified, Mary stood near the cross (John 19:25). She watched as the One she loved suffered and died, refusing to abandon Him. Mary stood with Jesus’ mother within arms reach of Jesus. Can you imagine how hard it was to stand that close but not able to help the One you love the most?
But Mary’s greatest act of strength came on the morning of the Resurrection. In John 20:1-18, she went to the tomb while it was still dark. When she found it empty, her heart broke, but she didn’t run away. She stayed, crying, until Jesus came to her. He chose her, a woman who had once been tormented by demons, to be the first to see His resurrection.
Mary’s strength was in her devotion and courage. She was the first to give the Good News, “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18). She became the first to tell the most important truth in history.
Mary Magdalene reminds us that strength is found in devotion as she devoted her life to Him. Her story is a testament that God uses those who are willing, regardless of where they come from or who they are.
Let her life inspire you to trust in His power to transform, stand firm in faith, and speak boldly of His truth.
Priscilla: Acts18, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Romans 16:3-5
Priscilla stands out as a woman of wisdom, and strength. Alongside her husband Aquila, she became an important part of the early Christian church.
Priscilla opened her home to Paul (Acts 18) and later hosted a house church (1 Corinthians 16:19), showing others how to build God’s kingdom.
Priscilla was a teacher. She and Aquila helped Apollos understand the gospel more clearly, They taught him “the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26).
Paul even says Priscilla risked her life for the gospel (Romans 16:3-4). She worked side by side with her husband, proving that God uses both men and women.
Priscilla’s life is a reminder that God can use anyone willing to open their heart, and home for His work. Let her example inspire your own walk of faith and service.
The stories of these strong women of faith—Deborah, Esther, Ruth, Hannah, Mary, Mary Magdalene, and Priscilla show us that courage, trust in God, and perseverance are not limited to a specific time or circumstance. Each of these women faced challenges that tested their faith, yet they remained steadfast, allowing God to use them in incredible ways.
As I reflect on my own faith journey, I realize that strength isn’t about having a perfect life or never facing difficulties. It’s about trusting God through the uncertainties, standing firm in our beliefs, and stepping forward in faith even when we’re afraid. Just like these women, we are called to live with boldness and purpose, knowing that God is always with us.
Proverbs 31:25 says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” This verse reminds us that true strength comes from God. When we lean on Him, we can face the future with confidence, knowing that He is in control.
My hope is that these stories of strong women of faith in the Bible encourage and inspire you to recognize the strength within yourself. No matter where you are in your faith journey, God has a purpose for you. We are all strong women of faith—we just have to believe it and walk in it.
