With conversations and headlines about abuse, power, and assault, women are all looking for answers. Marlo Schalesky provides a biblical response to the tough questions these issues raise by exploring the stories of twenty women in Scripture. Women of the Bible Speak Out is a study of the biblical text with a focus on God’s responses to hurting women and how He offers freedom and wholeness. … Schalesky is a trusted theologian and communicates in a way that’s relevant and easy to understand. She writes insightfully, compassionately, and hopefully, reminding us that God is extending His healing hand to women today.
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The book Women of the Bible Speak Out by Marlo Schalesky is a fictionized first-person account of some of the more familiar women’s stories from the Bible. This book encourages women to dig deeper into the easily recognized stories. Marlo inspires women to realize that God sees each one of these women in a personal way, and He sees us as well. With this understanding, the reader is empowered to find healing from abuse and betrayal. Through a personal relationship with our Father, we can trust Him to help us through any situation our modern world takes us through. We can rely on Him for wholeness and freedom.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.
Those who have been abused will feel impowered by stories of women healed by Jesus.
Eve
Marlo looks at this woman to learn about the source of brokenness in life. She imagines Eve’s dismay at Adam’s betrayal as he “blames” her for his choice to eat the apple. Was she hurt by what Adam said to God? Maybe. Adam was telling the truth.
Jesus quotes Adam in Mark 10:7, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife”. Jesus explains, “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This suggests Adam told God he was choosing to keep his marriage vows with Eve. Since God clearly teaches consequences ahead of time, we can intuit Adam knew Eve would be sent from the garden because of her actions. I think Adam’s answer is also a reference to his marriage commitment to Eve.
I don’t believe, either, that the Lord created enmity between men and women. But, I disagree when the author implies brokeness between men and women originated in this excerpt. I believe we would recognize our Heavenly Father gave us a good chance for success.
We can hope for happiness in marriage as we see Adam honor his pledge with Eve.
Lot’s Daughters and a Concubine
The tragedy of the girl who was raped is horrible. It crushed her spirit and she ended up taking her life.
Lot was portrayed in this chapter as being “cast out” of Sodom by the Lord because of his wickedness. It seems like he offered his daughters to be “used” by the evil men of Sodom but that doesn’t fit with the rest of the account in the scriptures.
I suggest we read the full narrative. Before the tale in this book, Lot’s uncle, Abraham, begs the Lord to spare Sodom. The Lord agrees if ten righteous people can be found there. Several angels come to Lot’s house in Sodom and warn him to leave. Lot pleads to God for help. The Lord says He has accepted Lot.
God spared him as he obeyed. Lot was not ‘thrown out’ of Sodom but was “brought out” to save him and his daughters.
Now as we can see Lot’s reputation of leading a righteous life, we can evaluate the out of character statement he seemingly made in verse 8. Whenever I read something that is inconsistent with the rest of God’s commandments, I check the translation.
JST, Genesis 19:13 adds the word ‘not’ in several places to clarify this verse. Lot tried to send the wicked men away. Even when they threatened him with bodily harm, he did not budge. It was only through the actions of the angels that Lot and his daughters were saved.
Marlo says the Levite gave the concubine to the men of the city Gibeah to be abused in the story of the concubine and the Levite but I thought it was the owner of the home where they were staying. In the King James version of the Bible, it appears that it is the master of the house. Judges 19:23 specifically adds this. The man mentioned in verse 25 is probably the same man. The Levite seemed too sad when he discovered his concubine dead to be guilty here.
My experiences affect how I perceive people. Jesus teaches me how to be healed. That breathtaking gift is what Christ wants us to strive for in our lives.
“God cares deeply about every act of abuse that is suffered by his people. Daughters, concubines, women, you, and me. And even when he seems slow to act, he will never just let it go.”
Mary and Martha
The author felt guilty for not wanting to teach the toddlers at her church once a month. I sympathize with both the author, anything seems arduous when I’m exhausted, and with the pastor’s wife, as I’ve heard how challenging it is to find someone willing to keep an eye on the youngest people. If nobody is available to teach them, there won’t be a nursery.
I’ve cared for children often. It is tiring when there are a lot in one class. Yet teaching and caring for this group was most fulfilling when I taught my children too. I didn’t feel far away from Jesus.
I agree we are quick to judge and sometimes treat other women harshly. When we do that maybe we haven’t accepted ourselves or seen our own worth in God’s eyes. It’s easy to perceive other people’s ill-treatment towards us but it’s harder to see when we exploit someone.
I was mildly sad by her take on Mary and Martha. They do not appear maltreated to me.
Jesus doesn’t diminish us. The women in the Bible often had to conform to society’s expectations not in choosing to be themselves as the Lord allows since it pleases His daughters. Jesus ministered to women with gentleness, respect, and trust.
Yes, God created men and women as equals. Devaluing our part in God’s plan damages our dignity!
Our divine responsibilities support us in being happy. Let’s value our part in the significant aspect Jesus regards it.
Marlo shares her assumption about our duty in regards to other people. I don’t agree that the Lord only wants us to watch out for us as He asks us to follow His son. Heavenly Father wants us to help others as Jesus did.
“Jesus never calls us to meet the expectations of others.”
Perhaps we should see ourselves as part of the community of Christ. He needs us to care for each other. I served in various church opportunities. I made new friends and had fun! We can live so that God knows we love Him as we serve like His son.
The Bible tells of a pearl of great price. The merchant sold everything he had to buy it. The pearl is like the heaven. If we follow Jesus, we can have this pearl.
Jesus knew the truth would set these women free. In these stories, Jesus shows He is the good shepherd. His love is all consuming as He not only seeks out those who are lost, He loves to forgive.
We may not interpret the scriptures the same but we can still listen. I like that Marlo reminds us all brokenness and shame may be healed through Jesus and of our worth to Him. He showed himself to Mary Magdalena before His disciples after He was risen. Jesus cares about us and is there for us too if we follow Him.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
In Women of the Bible Speak out, author Marlo Schalesky gives the stories of many Bible women that have suffered issues such as abuse, been betrayed, abandoned, misused and so much more. The author doesn’t speak about these things to condemn them, but to show her readers that there is hope in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As she talks about each woman, she gives the hope that each finds in Christ alone.
I am glad I requested this book to review. I learned a lot if things about these women of the Bible talked about in this book. I also heard stories of real life people, including the author, of their struggles with these issues. I feel the author dies a great job interpreting the meanings and feelings if these ladies if the Bible. But of course this is the author’s viewpoint, and just as it is with anyone, it may be a little different that what others see. But the overall thing us this, we can find help, hope, strength and restoration when putting our faith and hope in Jesus Christ. And this is what the author here shows us in so many ways. And I can only sympathize with her for her own struggles, and I praise her for allowing others into her life through this wonderful book she has written. I highly recommend this book to those who are fighting with things in their life that is pulling them down, pulling them away from their life with Christ, or maybe there are ladies out there reading this that has never put their faith and trust in Jesus, and this book is for all! Everyone reading this book with find something that relates to them because we all have our struggles. And we all need the help and hope only Jesus can give.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
What I think you should know:
Women of the Bible Speak Out : Stories of Betrayal, Abuse, Healing and Hope by Marlo Schalesky is a Christian Living, Women’s Interest book. The book looks at 14 women of the Bible and how their stories relate to problems that still plague women today.
What you might NEED to know:
The author states she hopes that this book brings healing to women who have suffered abuse, however I think that parts of the book should be read with extreme caution as the author gives a voice to the women of the Bible including women who were raped, beaten and killed. She also includes similar stories from today that show that women still suffer many of the same injustices today.
What I think about this book:
Schalesky has given a voice and humanized women who have long been stories or overlooked figures in the Bible. While many parts of the book were hard for me to read I enjoyed how she demonstrated through scripture how much God loves women and how he provides for them. I enjoyed how she challenged me to look deeper at some of the women that she studied. I do wish that she would have given more scriptural references. I would recommend this book as a weekly read or study not as something to be read in one sitting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Let’s face it, in the Bible we constantly see examples of how our flesh gets in the way of our faith. Perhaps Paul says it best when he states.“For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.” This book examines how certain women of the Bible who were betrayed, abused, and more.
I appreciate how this book not only tells their story but also highlights and explores God’s response to them. It is hard to imagine exactly what women would do today if they found themselves in the shoes of someone like Abigail or Hannah, or any of the other 18 women included in this book.
I feel like the author does a good job of examining how man’s (or this case woman’s) sinful nature affects everything we do. I appreciate how she uses Scriptures to back up her points. I think one of my favorite women in this book is Mary and Martha. So many times I find myself rushing around when all I want to do is sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from his teachings.
So if you want to read a book that examines women who have suffered in the Bible, and how God reacts to those situations, check out this book for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Get ready to learn new things about certain women of the Bible in Women of the Bible Speak Out. I found this to be an interesting read. I have read about these women. They are ones that I’ve studied and often thought about. Women of the Bible are mentioned for a reason and I’ve always been curious to find out why. What is the reason they were put in?
Now, I can’t say that I agree with everything in this book because I don’t view everything through the same lens the author does, but I do agree these are women we should be studying and looking at from the Bible.
I do recommend this book as it will help you even at nothing else to open your Bible and search for these women to find out for yourself why they are important and what their stories are.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I have been anticipating reading this book for awhile. I wanted to hear from women in the Bible and see what their thoughts were. The author takes a look at several women and lets us see what they may have been thinking and feeling. The first woman we meet is Eve. Rightly so it should be her first since she was the first woman created. I loved how she knew right away that she had sinned. We all are quick to point fingers when someone does something wrong. But do we consider how they may feel? Just like Eve we hide in shame hoping that no one knows we have sinned. Did Eve feel like she had the weight of the world on her shoulders? Where was Adam? Why wasn’t he standing beside his helpmate instead of pointing fingers at her? There is hope in God. He wants to heal us from brokenness and shame. It is not your fault if you have experienced abuse. I loved how the author shows us what Eve may say to us now. “Have hope!”
Each woman from the Bible shared in this book opened my eyes to lies that we have accepted for too long. We are not the weaker ones , but equal in God’s eyes. We don’t need to feel guilty or ashamed. God wants us to hold our head up, know we are loved and forgiven. The enemy loves to whisper things in our ears to discourage us. It is time to brush away the past and allow God to heal your heart.
As I read these stories I couldn’t believe that I never noticed how women were treated in Biblical times. Some were abused, sold in slavery and tossed aside when they were not needed anymore. Oh that we will allow the truth to set us free. I end my review with this story about Women at the Tomb. “Jesus entrusted a small group of faithful women the most important news of all history.” What would it have been like to be among them as they shared that Jesus was alive ? Even though they might not be believed He still chose them to share the news. God loves us. We need to start lifting each other up. There is no time for jealousy or gossip. God wants us to stand together and remember these women from the Bible. They overcame great obstacles to proclaim His glory.
I hope every woman will get a copy of this book. It gives hope to the broken-hearted and frees those who have felt unworthy. This would make an excellent Bible study for women. I can see a group of women going through the chapter one week at a time. As they discuss the women from the Bible they can feel safe to share their own experiences. It would be a time of healing and compassion. A time of hope and building each other up. Together we stand, divided we fall.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
“Women from the Bible Speak Out” by author Marlo Schalesky is an excellent book. This book discusses timeless issues that have plagued women since the beginning of time. By using women and their biblical stories, the author offers help, healing, and hope.
Usually I am not a fan of writers making up tales about the daily lives and thoughts of people from the Bible. However, author Schalesky has done it exceptionally well. Her take on the women’s issues, thoughts, and emotions is helpful and insightful. The variety of women featured is beautiful. She visits many well known and lesser known ladies from the Bible.
I was impressed with the writing style of the author. It is pleasant, inviting, and easy to read. I was immediately drawn in and captivated by this book. Usually that only happens with a novel. This is a teaching book. I learned about women’s issues, women of the Bible, and how God loves and helps each one of us.
I definitely recommend this book. Any woman would benefit from reading it. You will feel a closer kinship with our biblical ancestors. This helpful book sparks healing and hope. It is biblically based and will deepen your Christian walk. This would make a great individual or group bible study. It is a resource that all church libraries should consider.
It gets a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from me. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit, but all opinions are my own, honest ones.
I think that one of the reasons that this book is so powerful is that the author has personally experienced many of the feelings that she has chosen to write about. Marlo Schalesky has been a victim but, more importantly, she is now a survivor and she wants other women to understand that they can be survivors also. In the introduction of Women of the Bible Speak Out, she states that “Healing is not found in the arms of accusation. It’s found in a God who sees, loves, and redeems.” As she tells the stories of numerous Biblical women, she offers a fictional account, or biblical imagination, of what they may have felt during their difficult times. She also shares where their stories are found in the Bible and a one-word-description of how they felt. Feelings of betrayal, abuse, domination, oppression, shame, and scorn are some of the feelings described and aren’t these the very words that we often hear in today’s culture?
After reading this book, I have a new understanding of the women that I’ve read about most of my life. I am also reminded that God loved those women and He continues to love all of us. Women from the beginning of time have been valued by God and this is still true today. Schalesky urges us to never give up hope and to always turn to Him. He is the One who can grant us true healing.
Women of the Bible Speak Out is a wonderful resource and I believe that it could be used for personal devotion or in a group Bible study.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and these are my own opinions.
Engaging and heartfelt, this nonfiction collection examines fourteen stories from the Bible about women who were misused, abused, mistreated, betrayed, and abandoned. As unpalatable as that may sound, “Women of the Bible Speak Out” by Marlo Schalesky, herself a survivor, addresses the heartache but focuses on the hope that we have in Christ. No matter what we have gone through or what we are now going through, the Lord alone is our Rock and our hope eternal. As Schalesky herself notes in the introduction to her book, “Healing is not found in the arms of accusation. It’s found in a God who sees, loves, and redeems.”
“Women of the Bible Speak Out” is unique and informative, yet it reads like a personal account rather than a nonfiction reference book. I think that it could even be used as a devotional because its setup is conducive to such. Each chapter features one or two women from the Bible, with a one-word description of how she was mistreated, the Bible chapter or chapters in which her story appears, a Bible verse, a brief general summary of the abuse voiced, a contemporary example or application, the woman telling her story in the first-person, discussion, a segment entitled Who is God When, and a quotation. I think that this is a great format for either personal or group study, and when the Biblical woman’s story is presented through her own voice, Schalesky uses words taken from Scripture as well as what she terms “biblical imagination.” This makes the stories more real for readers, especially any who might have trouble connecting with the Bible.
This book’s release coincides with so much chaos and the destruction of Christian values at an increasing pace in a secular culture that has little regard, it seems, for human life, so the timing is perfect because now more than ever before we need to be reading and studying God’s Word. “Women of the Bible Speak Out” offers glorious hope in the midst of life’s trials, providing a fresh perspective on the stories that many will recognize immediately but perhaps have not dug deeper yet. One thing that stood out to me in the first chapter about Eve, that I have always somehow overlooked, is that God banished Adam and Eve from Eden out of mercy so that they would not eat from the Tree of Life and live forever in their broken, sinful state. I also appreciated that Schalesky treated each story with the gravitas it deserved, and that she was not afraid to address the horrors of the situations while also placing them within the context of ordinary customs at that time.
Despite the differences in time periods and cultures, one thing will always remain the same: God’s love for us. We will all face circumstances that we don’t want, and we may never know why something happens, but remember that God did not spare His Son, and Jesus was crucified and rose again to take away our sins and to prepare a place for us. We must never give up or give in to the lies that the enemy tries to plant within us, “Because when you feel the most helpless, when all your options seem gone, when you’ve been used and cast aside, it is often at that very moment that God is working not just to save you, but to liberate you—to set you truly and fully free. Because you are his beloved.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.