Book Review: Women of the Bible

Six women in my community group have begun meeting regularly to discuss the book Women of the Bible: A One-Year Devotional Study of Women in Scripture, by Ann Spangler and Jean E. Syswerda. The devotional offers an insightful journey into the lives of 52 women of the Bible, and provides cultural and historical context for the Scriptures concerning each of them. A central aspect of the study is the extensive Scripture references included  - attempting to launch into reading about the lives of these women without open Bible in hand would steal from the depth and beauty of this book.

Reading and contemplating what these feminine characters’ lives might have been like, for me, has begun to spark new interest and appreciation for them and for Jesus’ faithfulness, clearly evident in their lives. I would recommend this resource to any woman looking for a closer look into Biblical characters, specifically feminine characters, and God’s story through their lives.

I would not recommend this book to women looking for a deep, intensive study of Scripture. Those looking for Greek and Hebrew cross references will probably be disappointed. However, the storytelling tone of the book has been ideal, as I have begun reading it at 6:00 each weekday morning, curled up on the couch with a cup of coffee and enjoying a short time in the Word before my hubby wakes up. The short daily study, combined with a good dose of Scripture, has been starting my day out with a fresh perspective.