The Wise Woman – Conclusion

So after this initial introduction their conversation continues. The wise woman goes on to tell him “Long ago they used to say, ‘Get your answer at Abel,’ and that settled it. We are the peaceful and faithful in Israel. You are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why do you want to swallow up the LORD’s inheritance?” I find it interesting that she appeals to his sensibilities. She gives him advice to calm down and stop terrorizing peaceful people. She asks him to think of the peaceful people he is going to victimize. Isn’t that just like a man, so focused on the goal that he loses sight of the other things around him? I realize that is a generalization, but since I’ve already committed the sin, isn’t it just like a woman to be concerned with the innocent people in her town?

He in turn responds “”Far be it from me to swallow up or destroy! That is not the case. A man named Sheba son of Bicri, from the hill country of Ephraim, has lifted up his hand against the king, against David. Hand over this one man, and I’ll withdraw from the city.” It is clear that Joab does not want to destroy innocent people; he just wants to capture and kill Sheba.

Without hesitation she responds “His head will be thrown to you from the wall.” She was authoritative in her response to Joab. She had brokered a deal for peace and she was happy with the arrangement.

So the wise woman instructs the people of Abel and they cut off Sheba’s head and throw it over the wall to Joab. Her wisdom is welcomed by the people of the town and they follow her instructions. I’m sure the people were happy to oblige Joab’s request and spare their city. It’s still astounding to me at their reaction to her wisdom. Apparently they willingly capture and kill Sheba, all at the voice of a woman.

This story excites me! Not only does this woman save the King, she also saves her city from the attack of Joab. The result of her wisdom was peace. The Lord could have used anyone but He chose a wise woman. I tend to think this woman provided balance to what could have been a disastrous situation. God created women to complete the man. I love the interaction between this man and woman. Both of their strengths are easily viewed by the reader.

As women, sometimes I think we hear two messages. One tells us to be submissive and meek in all areas of life. Another message is that women should rule the world and tell their husband’s what to do. Obviously both of the messages are flawed, and this wise woman is one more example from Scripture. This story just illustrates the great influence women can have among God’s people when she is wise and follows God’s Word. That means living in submission to God’s authority while being completely available for His use. God used a nameless woman to save a city and a King. Wouldn’t it be great if the Lord would use one of us to change our city? We never know when God might call on us to do something extraordinary.

Something else I want to point out, this is the third time in the Bible where we find a woman actively saving the life of David. Michal covered for him as he fled from King Saul. Abigail intervened on David’s behalf and eventually married him. This wise woman delivered the head of a man who would kill him. I realize this is a side track to the original message but when I thought of this it added to my amazement at God’s use of women.

Ultimately, the question I think of is “are you living in such a way that God can use you?” While God may not call you to save the world, are you daily living in such a way that He could? I believe God has a special plan for all of us. God is waiting to use you in a mighty way. Strive to be a wise woman so you can be ready when you are called on to serve Him.