They Did What They Could

Considering examples of women who made do with what they had and made a difference for others can be encouraging. The things we do can make a difference too.

Did you ever feel like that little rodent running and running in a wheel in a cage, but getting nowhere? You wonder where the day went and why you didn’t get more accomplished. You wonder if what you did get done was worth anything. After all, the same chores are waiting for you day after day after day. You may ask, Am I growing in self-control and good works as commanded? Am I making any progress at all as the days and weeks slip away, or am I just spinning my wheels?

Enlightening examples

Since God provides direction for our lives through Scripture, I found several examples of women who accomplished much by doing what they could in the course of a day. Maybe it was nothing miraculous or newsworthy at the time, but their actions did make a big difference.

In 2 Kings 5:1-15, we read of a young Israelite serving girl, a captive to the wife of Naaman, who was a powerful captain in Syria. Her name is not recorded, but her kindness and faith resound through the story as she assured Naaman’s wife that he could be cured of his leprosy, if he appealed to Elisha.

In spite of her slave status, her master listened to the advice of our heroine. Naaman appealed, Elisha (by God’s power) healed, and God was given His due honor. Pretty good for an innocent, though heartfelt, remark.

A second example is found in Mark 14:8. Mary, a disciple, is highlighted by Christ as someone who did what she could. She knew that Jesus had prophesied that His death would be soon, and she must have grieved terribly. To emphasize her devotion and concern, she quietly brought an expensive vial or box of perfume to a dinner Christ was attending. Without comment, she broke the seal and poured the fragrant liquid on the top of His head, disregarding the negative murmurs castigating her action.

Her beloved Master approved, noting that it was done in advance of His death. She could not stop the reality of death, but she could refresh her tired Savior for one day. (Read more about this remarkable story in “A Woman to Remember.”)

Providing a place

A well-to-do woman in Shunem, in the territory of Issachar, was known for her hospitality. Recognizing Elisha as a man of God, she made available a private room in the front of her house for him as he came and went from their city. There was no elaborate preparation, just functional items: a bed, a table, stool and a lamp stand. She simply made use of what she had to make it easier for him to travel through the area.

The story continues in 2 Kings 4:14. She was not anticipating any payback, but her thoughtfulness was rewarded when God blessed her with the birth of a son. Sometimes unexpected joys come from our consideration of others, whether we provide simple or complex aid, only once or ongoing. The Shunammite woman is a lesson in doing what is needed.

Then there was Rizpah, the concubine of Saul. She could not stop the execution of her sons, but she did what she could for their honor, even after their death. King David was deeply moved by her actions. You can read the rest of her story in 2 Samuel 21.

As you study, be prepared to find many other instances of biblical heroes/heroines who used everyday opportunities to help or serve when possible.

Alert to do good works

We are not meant to travel through life futilely running in a wheel like that gerbil in a cage. It is up to us to fulfill the injunction of Titus 3:14 and be alert to do good works that are profitable to others.

Occasions to make a difference in someone’s life may not come every day, but they are around every corner. We can speak out in faith, offer hospitality or do an act of kindness as these women of history did. When opportunities arrive, do whatever you can, and you will add some zest to your own life as well.

Gale Maranville lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with her husband, Cecil. She is a retired public school teacher and has two children and eight grandchildren. She enjoys reading and baking and finds that family and her Church family keep her life lively.