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Women of the Bible Speak Out: Stories of Betrayal, Abuse, Healing, and Hope
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.
- GenresChristianNonfiction
240 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2020
12 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Marlo Schalesky
20 books73 followersMarlo Schalesky is the founder and president of Wonder Wood Ranch, a California charitable organization that brings hope through horses to at-risk, gang-impacted, homeless, and other disadvantaged kids in Monterey County. She is also the award winning author of twelve books, including her latest nonfiction, WOMEN OF THE BIBLE SPEAK OUT, Stories of Betrayal, Abuse, Healing & Hope (2020), as well as Reaching for Wonder, Encountering Christ When Life Hurts, Waiting for Wonder, Learning to Live on God’s Timeline, Wrestling with Wonder, a Transformational Journey through the Life of Mary, and Empty Womb, Aching Heart, Hope and Help for those Struggling with Infertility. Her fiction includes RITA finalist Shades of Morning, the Christy Award winning Beyond the Night, and ACFW Book of the Year winner Veil of Fire.
She’s had over 1,000 articles published in various Christian magazines, including Focus on the Family, Today’s Christian Woman, Decision, Moody Magazine, and Discipleship Journal. She has contributed to Dr. Dobson’s Night Light Devotional for Couples, Tyndale’s Book of Devotions for Kids #3, and Discipleship Journal’s 101 Small Group Ideas.
She is a speaker, with appearances on Focus on the Family, Moody Midday, 100 Huntley Street, The Harvest Show, and hundreds of others. She is also a regular columnist for Power for Living.
Marlo is also a California native, a graduate of Stanford University (with a B.S. in Chemistry!). In addition, she has earned her Masters in Theology, with an emphasis in Biblical Studies, from Fuller Theological Seminary.
After twenty years on the infertility journey, and numerous miscarriages, Marlo now lives with her husband, six children, and fifty-some critters in a log home in Central California.
When she’s not cleaning up after critters of all kinds, doing laundry, or writing books, Marlo loves white mochas, reading the New Testament in Greek, and speaking to groups about finding the wonder of God in everyday life.
She’s had over 1,000 articles published in various Christian magazines, including Focus on the Family, Today’s Christian Woman, Decision, Moody Magazine, and Discipleship Journal. She has contributed to Dr. Dobson’s Night Light Devotional for Couples, Tyndale’s Book of Devotions for Kids #3, and Discipleship Journal’s 101 Small Group Ideas.
She is a speaker, with appearances on Focus on the Family, Moody Midday, 100 Huntley Street, The Harvest Show, and hundreds of others. She is also a regular columnist for Power for Living.
Marlo is also a California native, a graduate of Stanford University (with a B.S. in Chemistry!). In addition, she has earned her Masters in Theology, with an emphasis in Biblical Studies, from Fuller Theological Seminary.
After twenty years on the infertility journey, and numerous miscarriages, Marlo now lives with her husband, six children, and fifty-some critters in a log home in Central California.
When she’s not cleaning up after critters of all kinds, doing laundry, or writing books, Marlo loves white mochas, reading the New Testament in Greek, and speaking to groups about finding the wonder of God in everyday life.
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June 20, 2020
What Happens When Worldviews Collide?
I dove into Women of the Bible Speak Out with mixed feelings and the expectation of doing a lot of skimming.
I didn’t. Instead, this book kept my interest from beginning to end. That’s impressive. Written in a conversational style, the book chronicles the experiences both of modern women and Biblical counterparts who endured similar situations—abuse, neglect, abandonment, pressure… all the ugliness.
First, I’d like to thank the author for being so careful to write her Biblical illustrations with deliberate care. Every one of the women used as an example “wrote” a message about her experience, and Marlo Schalesky makes a point, every time, of reminding us that this is what the woman could have said rather than did. It’s one woman’s (the author’s) interpretation of the Biblical subtext.
Additionally, Schalesky is careful to dive deep into Scripture instead of just making assumptions or regurgitating what we’ve heard often but might not actually be Biblically supported. Well done.
So, does that mean I loved the book so much that I’ll be buying cases for everyone I know?
No. I can’t say I loved the book for several reasons, but I do give it a strong “star rating.” But there are issues that may or not actually be issues. I don’t know. And that’s kind of the point.
First, much of the book offers peeks into personal hardships of real women living today. I expected that, but seriously, I’d hoped this would be a good book to pass to my daughter. It isn’t. While Schalesky isn’t afraid to tackle difficult subjects, that’s kind of the point. I know details that almost made me put it down.
Here’s the thing. I know ugliness is out there. I’ve experienced it. Despite, or perhaps because of, that, I don’t handle some of that sort of information well. This book dances really close to the line if not over it a time or two.
Second, I need a deep dive into the Bible to really weigh some of what the author says. A few things prompted a check in my spirit, and I didn’t have time to go dig them out. Suffice it to say, there was a lot of assumption of feeling and perspective on the part of these women that we can’t really say is accurate. It’s impossible to turn off our own cultural perspective when examining another.
There were times I felt like past and present expectations created collision courses… the question is if things actually collided or not.
I don’t know.
Third, it’s minor, but it’s there—an agenda. Again, I can’t say this is wrong! But it’s there, and I think it’s important to be aware of. The author has a decided opinion and bias, and you can see that through her vignettes with the Biblical women and her conclusions on different Biblical passages.
I have to repeat myself. I don’t say she’s wrong. That said, without further study, I can’t say I agree either. I’m glad I requested and received a free review copy. It’ll send me deeper into the Bible to examine her conclusions in the light of Scripture. Isn’t that what a good book does? Sends us to THE Good Book?
Still, she’s written an interesting book that looks at modern problems through the lives of Biblical women and shows that sin hasn’t changed much through history. We all need Jesus. One thing Schalesky says is, “I want more than justice; I want healing. I want more than healing; I want wholeness. I want more than wholeness; I want holiness.”
And that shows on every page.
Recommended for hurting women with a desire to dig deep into the Word to see if what this author has shared can be found there. I suspect most will. And that’s pretty awesome in my book.
I dove into Women of the Bible Speak Out with mixed feelings and the expectation of doing a lot of skimming.
I didn’t. Instead, this book kept my interest from beginning to end. That’s impressive. Written in a conversational style, the book chronicles the experiences both of modern women and Biblical counterparts who endured similar situations—abuse, neglect, abandonment, pressure… all the ugliness.
First, I’d like to thank the author for being so careful to write her Biblical illustrations with deliberate care. Every one of the women used as an example “wrote” a message about her experience, and Marlo Schalesky makes a point, every time, of reminding us that this is what the woman could have said rather than did. It’s one woman’s (the author’s) interpretation of the Biblical subtext.
Additionally, Schalesky is careful to dive deep into Scripture instead of just making assumptions or regurgitating what we’ve heard often but might not actually be Biblically supported. Well done.
So, does that mean I loved the book so much that I’ll be buying cases for everyone I know?
No. I can’t say I loved the book for several reasons, but I do give it a strong “star rating.” But there are issues that may or not actually be issues. I don’t know. And that’s kind of the point.
First, much of the book offers peeks into personal hardships of real women living today. I expected that, but seriously, I’d hoped this would be a good book to pass to my daughter. It isn’t. While Schalesky isn’t afraid to tackle difficult subjects, that’s kind of the point. I know details that almost made me put it down.
Here’s the thing. I know ugliness is out there. I’ve experienced it. Despite, or perhaps because of, that, I don’t handle some of that sort of information well. This book dances really close to the line if not over it a time or two.
Second, I need a deep dive into the Bible to really weigh some of what the author says. A few things prompted a check in my spirit, and I didn’t have time to go dig them out. Suffice it to say, there was a lot of assumption of feeling and perspective on the part of these women that we can’t really say is accurate. It’s impossible to turn off our own cultural perspective when examining another.
There were times I felt like past and present expectations created collision courses… the question is if things actually collided or not.
I don’t know.
Third, it’s minor, but it’s there—an agenda. Again, I can’t say this is wrong! But it’s there, and I think it’s important to be aware of. The author has a decided opinion and bias, and you can see that through her vignettes with the Biblical women and her conclusions on different Biblical passages.
I have to repeat myself. I don’t say she’s wrong. That said, without further study, I can’t say I agree either. I’m glad I requested and received a free review copy. It’ll send me deeper into the Bible to examine her conclusions in the light of Scripture. Isn’t that what a good book does? Sends us to THE Good Book?
Still, she’s written an interesting book that looks at modern problems through the lives of Biblical women and shows that sin hasn’t changed much through history. We all need Jesus. One thing Schalesky says is, “I want more than justice; I want healing. I want more than healing; I want wholeness. I want more than wholeness; I want holiness.”
And that shows on every page.
Recommended for hurting women with a desire to dig deep into the Word to see if what this author has shared can be found there. I suspect most will. And that’s pretty awesome in my book.
June 5, 2020
5 stars. This was a phenomenal read and I'm so happy to have read. I highly recommend this one! Review to come.
June 6, 2021
Many times, when women look for protection, understanding and counsel in the church, they might feel overlooked or worse, find their church, their spiritual home, touting the same misogynist paroles, even contributing to the systems. Even the Bible is often claimed to be sexist.
I have been looking forward to reading this book and it did not disappoint my expectations. Marlo focuses on women's stories, their voices and shows that we can find hope, healing and understanding in God's word and that our stories are represented there. She connects these women's stories with real life examples of the abuse and pain women have to endure today. She does so by giving us the perspective of each woman, by imagining what she would tell us and what she felt in her situation.
I find this way of exploring Biblical stories by retelling it from their perspective very helpful to dive deeper into a story, but this is where some people may object and rather prefer the literal words of the Bible. But instead of highlighting this as a weakness of this book, I think these stories can serve as a great foundation for a Bible study and to read them alongside the Biblical text.
The book is easy to read and very comforting and encouraging. I loved learning about each woman and I think that we as women need more books like this. Recommended for all women's bible study groups as well as individual study.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have been looking forward to reading this book and it did not disappoint my expectations. Marlo focuses on women's stories, their voices and shows that we can find hope, healing and understanding in God's word and that our stories are represented there. She connects these women's stories with real life examples of the abuse and pain women have to endure today. She does so by giving us the perspective of each woman, by imagining what she would tell us and what she felt in her situation.
I find this way of exploring Biblical stories by retelling it from their perspective very helpful to dive deeper into a story, but this is where some people may object and rather prefer the literal words of the Bible. But instead of highlighting this as a weakness of this book, I think these stories can serve as a great foundation for a Bible study and to read them alongside the Biblical text.
The book is easy to read and very comforting and encouraging. I loved learning about each woman and I think that we as women need more books like this. Recommended for all women's bible study groups as well as individual study.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2023
This is exactly the kind of book that I love. It doesn't just talk surface level Christianity, or surface level scripture. It dives deep into the women of the Bible, and I love digging deep into Bible figures. But especially the women of the Bible. There is something very special reading about the women of the Bible, especially since there are more than it seems initially. When you get into a book like this, you see how many women are really talked about even in a culture that saw women as lesser...(God didn't). Digging in to the culture of the times and the way the Bible handles that. I also think this is a book that is vitally needed in this time when feminism is at its height but is also turning into something entirely different and new, seeing female figures from the Bible and what the Bible says of them is so important in understanding God's true place for women. Of course because there are only so many verses that cover these women, the author does expound on what they might have been thinking and feeling, (what some might call creative license), but I think we should always do this when endeavoring to understand the Bible more fully. They were people just like we are, so we can easily sympathize with them if we put ourselves in their mindsets. I think that is an important part of studying the Bible and Bible figures.
Each women specifically mentioned in this book faced some form of oppression or abuse or mistreatment. This the author writing it at the cusp of the #metoo movement. For me, I found Hannah’s portion to be especially profound. Mostly because I’d never looked at Hannah this way before. We all seem to focus on her infertility and praying for a child, while Marlo focused on what brought her value in the eyes of culture and in her own. That was so eye opening and relatable for me.
Every woman will be able to find herself in the pages of this book. And I love how the author then point out how Jesus was treated the same way. And how He redeems the woman and us.
Though I may not agree with everything outright, I don't believe there is a single book--except the Bible--that would agree with 100% and that doesn't mean I can't learn valuable lessons from it.
Each women specifically mentioned in this book faced some form of oppression or abuse or mistreatment. This the author writing it at the cusp of the #metoo movement. For me, I found Hannah’s portion to be especially profound. Mostly because I’d never looked at Hannah this way before. We all seem to focus on her infertility and praying for a child, while Marlo focused on what brought her value in the eyes of culture and in her own. That was so eye opening and relatable for me.
Every woman will be able to find herself in the pages of this book. And I love how the author then point out how Jesus was treated the same way. And how He redeems the woman and us.
Though I may not agree with everything outright, I don't believe there is a single book--except the Bible--that would agree with 100% and that doesn't mean I can't learn valuable lessons from it.
June 12, 2020
In recent years the MeToo mouvement started, women who have been abused started to speak about the hurt, the pain they endure their voices needed to be heard, for too long shame has kept them silence.
Justice is so important for a victim of abuse however it's not always easy to obtain it. But you can turn to God and let him heal your wounds and believe that he can restore you entirely and be fair with you.
In her book the author invite you to dive in the story of several women of the Bible: Eve, Sarai, Hagar, Tamar, Abigail... women who know what pain is, women who have been betrayed, used, rejected, devalued... And she wants you to see that there is hope for you despites your circumstances you are more than your past, shame can not hold you captive, you were created with a purpose, you are loved by your God you can be bold, courageous and an instrument into God's hands like Deborah who judged Israel or Jael who killed Sisera and delivered Israel, like Mary Mother of Jesus and others...
If you have suffered from abused, rejection... this book is for you, it will help you in your journey to be whole again.
Justice is so important for a victim of abuse however it's not always easy to obtain it. But you can turn to God and let him heal your wounds and believe that he can restore you entirely and be fair with you.
In her book the author invite you to dive in the story of several women of the Bible: Eve, Sarai, Hagar, Tamar, Abigail... women who know what pain is, women who have been betrayed, used, rejected, devalued... And she wants you to see that there is hope for you despites your circumstances you are more than your past, shame can not hold you captive, you were created with a purpose, you are loved by your God you can be bold, courageous and an instrument into God's hands like Deborah who judged Israel or Jael who killed Sisera and delivered Israel, like Mary Mother of Jesus and others...
If you have suffered from abused, rejection... this book is for you, it will help you in your journey to be whole again.
April 21, 2020
Marlo Schalesky's Women of the Bible Speak Out provides readers with a look at real women of the Bible, the hurts they experienced, and how God met them where they were. Schalesky offers women hope and healing as she explores the lives of these biblical women, including Eve, Hagar, Bathsheba, Esther, and the Samaritan woman, among others.
Schaesky takes creative license with each of the biblical characters, exploring what they might have thought and felt, and yet, I think she does it in a way that is true to the biblical text and the human experience. As I read, I certainly identified with many of the women, and I found that Schalesky drew together truths from God's Word that brought me hope as well as hope for healing from my own hurts and trauma.
It's a book I highly recommend to women who have experience any kind of trauma, hurt or abuse. You'll find a balm of healing as Schalesky gently guides you through other women's experiences, straight to the arms of God.
Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Schaesky takes creative license with each of the biblical characters, exploring what they might have thought and felt, and yet, I think she does it in a way that is true to the biblical text and the human experience. As I read, I certainly identified with many of the women, and I found that Schalesky drew together truths from God's Word that brought me hope as well as hope for healing from my own hurts and trauma.
It's a book I highly recommend to women who have experience any kind of trauma, hurt or abuse. You'll find a balm of healing as Schalesky gently guides you through other women's experiences, straight to the arms of God.
Note: I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 7, 2020
Name: Women of the Bible Speak Out
Author: Marlo Schalesky
Genre: Women Fiction, Betrayal, Abuse, Healing, Hope
Review:
Sin broke our relationship with our
Creator, fractured all our relationships. So we live in broken-
ness—but not in hopelessness.
A modern retelling of the stories of the women of the Bible from a woman's point of view. A new perspective can change the way we see things. A strengthening and a true feminist mindset devours and questions the lives of those women.
I have read those stories before, it has been taught to us since childhood. But when we read this book, it's an eye opening experience for me.
God has created man and woman equal, different but equal. He loved them equally, it's the society, it's the people themselves who degraded the position of woman to that of the subordinate, to that of inferior. Seeing from their perspective, it is seen that God has always been fair and just.
Amazing book with strengthens the position of woman since the very beginning. Loved it
Author: Marlo Schalesky
Genre: Women Fiction, Betrayal, Abuse, Healing, Hope
Review:
Sin broke our relationship with our
Creator, fractured all our relationships. So we live in broken-
ness—but not in hopelessness.
A modern retelling of the stories of the women of the Bible from a woman's point of view. A new perspective can change the way we see things. A strengthening and a true feminist mindset devours and questions the lives of those women.
I have read those stories before, it has been taught to us since childhood. But when we read this book, it's an eye opening experience for me.
God has created man and woman equal, different but equal. He loved them equally, it's the society, it's the people themselves who degraded the position of woman to that of the subordinate, to that of inferior. Seeing from their perspective, it is seen that God has always been fair and just.
Amazing book with strengthens the position of woman since the very beginning. Loved it
June 11, 2020
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.
“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.
June 23, 2020
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.
June 9, 2020
What a good book for women who have been hurt, abandoned, abused, and otherwise mistreated. Schalesky shares her insights from stories of women in the Bible, women who have been abused, betrayed and more.
I usually bristle at an author retelling a Bible story through imagining details. Schalesky has done an excellent job of the retelling, however. She really brings out the emotions and hurt I had not even considered. I found Sarah's story particularly powerful. Abraham basically told her to make herself available for sexual misuse so he would be treated better. Twice. God preserved her well being after being betrayed by the man who was supposed to protect her.
But Schalesky acknowledges that God does not always prevent such harm to women. God rescued Sarah but what if He does not rescue you? Why does God allow abuse to happen and to continue? Schalesky admits she cannot provide the answers to those questions. What she does provide is encouragement to stay strong, to believe God will see you through and that God will heal you.
A couple aspects of this book I really like will probably irritate some Christians. Schalesky is an egalitarian. She emphasizes equality and that may be unwelcome to complimentarians. Another possible source of irritation is her discussion of wifely submission. Using the example of Abigail and that she was not rebuked for her actions, Schalesky suggests God did not intend women submit to such as foolishness.
This is a good book for women who have been hurt whether from gender role expectations or sexual abuse or anything in between. You'll not find any easy answers here but you will find encouragement to keep believing God will see you through to healing.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I usually bristle at an author retelling a Bible story through imagining details. Schalesky has done an excellent job of the retelling, however. She really brings out the emotions and hurt I had not even considered. I found Sarah's story particularly powerful. Abraham basically told her to make herself available for sexual misuse so he would be treated better. Twice. God preserved her well being after being betrayed by the man who was supposed to protect her.
But Schalesky acknowledges that God does not always prevent such harm to women. God rescued Sarah but what if He does not rescue you? Why does God allow abuse to happen and to continue? Schalesky admits she cannot provide the answers to those questions. What she does provide is encouragement to stay strong, to believe God will see you through and that God will heal you.
A couple aspects of this book I really like will probably irritate some Christians. Schalesky is an egalitarian. She emphasizes equality and that may be unwelcome to complimentarians. Another possible source of irritation is her discussion of wifely submission. Using the example of Abigail and that she was not rebuked for her actions, Schalesky suggests God did not intend women submit to such as foolishness.
This is a good book for women who have been hurt whether from gender role expectations or sexual abuse or anything in between. You'll not find any easy answers here but you will find encouragement to keep believing God will see you through to healing.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
June 15, 2020
Women of the Bible Speak Out is not for the faint hearted reader. Marlo Schalesky brought to life Biblical women that faced a wide variety of trauma from being broken, rejected, devalued, abused and other harrowing action they endured by men and others. As a survivor of abuse herself, she writes her perception of what each Biblical woman may have endured. The pain, suffering, shame, and being downtrodden from their accuser will resonate with women who have been victimized. We hear so much about the abuse toward women any more but not how those who find faith and healing through God can and have become over comers.
Women have often been silenced when they have experienced trauma of any form but this book will show it’s time to speak out. God doesn’t stop the offenders but is still a God of love and can use trauma to bring about His purpose. This book would be useful for a survivor group for women and could be beneficial for a women’s Bible study group to gain insight in how to minister to the victims of abuse. In fact, Christian men, clergy and counselors would gain a better understanding how taking advantage of a woman can be so humiliating and the lifelong pain that may endure without God’s love and healing in their life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and Our Daily Bread Publishing. I was under no obligation to write a positive review but have shared my own opinion.
Women have often been silenced when they have experienced trauma of any form but this book will show it’s time to speak out. God doesn’t stop the offenders but is still a God of love and can use trauma to bring about His purpose. This book would be useful for a survivor group for women and could be beneficial for a women’s Bible study group to gain insight in how to minister to the victims of abuse. In fact, Christian men, clergy and counselors would gain a better understanding how taking advantage of a woman can be so humiliating and the lifelong pain that may endure without God’s love and healing in their life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and Our Daily Bread Publishing. I was under no obligation to write a positive review but have shared my own opinion.
June 25, 2020
Those who have been ill-used or abused will see stories of women healed by Jesus in Women of the Bible Speak Out. This book review and commentary will help you see that God cares about you too!
Eve
Marlo looks to Eve to learn about brokenness in life. She imagines Eve’s dismay at Adam’s betrayal as he “blames” her for knowing she is the one who ate the apple first. She maybe was sad because of what Adam said to God. Adam was telling the truth, though, about his first reason for not eating the fruit.
And the man said, The woman whom thou [intended] to be with me, she gave me [the fruit] of the tree, and I [ate it].
Genesis 3:12
Jesus quotes Adam (Gen 2:24) in Mark 10:7, “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife”. Jesus explains, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” This seems to mean Adam chose to keep his marriage vows with Eve. Since God clearly teaches consequences ahead of time, we can intuit Adam and Eve knew she would be sent from the garden because of her actions. I think Adam’s answer also refers to his marriage commitment with Eve.
I agree with the author that the Lord didn’t create enmity. I know God is creating beauty and fixing all misunderstandings in marriage through His Son’s atonement.
We can hope for joy in marriage as we see Adam honor his pledge with Eve. As the author says, God’s plan was, and still is, beautiful.
Marlo Shalesky’s message is: all pain and shame may be healed through Jesus.
Lot’s Daughters and a Levite’s Concubine: Abused
There are three stories in this chapter. One is not the abuse it seems on the surface of a woman but really two women against a man who is their father. The tragedy of the teen girl who was raped is horrible. It crushed her spirit and she ended up taking her life. I cried. No one should be abused!
Abuse is always sad. Teaching our families to respect people will help us work to avoid more scenarios. We shouldn’t get lost in trying to get retribution. Antagonism would decimate our integrity.
Lot lived in Sodom with his wife, her story is not discussed in this book, and daughters. Lot was portrayed here as “cast out” of Sodom by the Lord because of his wickedness. It seems as if 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.
To understand Lot’s story, I suggest we look at the previous chapter, Genesis 18, where Lot’s uncle, Abraham, begs the Lord to spare Sodom. The Lord agrees to not destroy the city if ten righteous people can be found there. He sends angels to Sodom. They come to Lot’s house and warn him to flee from Sodom before it is destroyed. Lot expresses gratitude for the Lord’s mercy. Then the Lord replies He has accepted Lot.
God spared the only righteous man, and his daughters, in the whole city. Lot chose to obey the Lord. He was not ‘cast out’ of Sodom.
So, this understanding, of Lot’s reputation of leading a righteous life, can aid us in evaluating the out of character statement he seemingly makes in verse eight. Whenever I read something that is inconsistent with the rest of God’s commandments, I check for an explanation. In this case, the Joseph Smith Translation clears up the missing info.
Lot did not offer his daughters to these men but refused. Even when they threatened him with bodily harm, he did not budge. I hope you realize God never condones abuse.
Marlo says the Levite was abusive in the story of the Levite and the concubine but I kind of think it was the owner of the home where they were staying. In the King James version of the Bible, it seems that it is not the Levite. Judges 19:23 specifically adds ‘the master of the house’. The man mentioned in verse twenty-five is probably the same person. The Levite seemed devastated when he found his concubine dead because of her torture. This story shows the lasting effects of sin with the result that a whole tribe is destroyed.
Sometimes these stories color how we perceive people. My experiences change how I perceive everyone. I’m healing personally. Jesus teaches me how to be at peace and whole again. That gift is from Jesus. He wants you to work for this too.
Jesus pays for our sins and feels our anguish so He is able to heal us. He comforts us in our sincere prayers and scripture study. Come to Christ!
Abigail: Endangered
This was my favorite chapter. Abigail’s courage in taking food to David and the kindness she shows for her foolish husband, by begging for his life, leaves me in awe. This is especially amazing when you think about Nabal probably treated Abigail harshly as Marlo suggests. I had missed this in my reading.
Marlo shares what she thinks biblical submission really means. It is not submitting to harsh treatment and foolish decisions. It is not scolding or trying to force our husbands to be more godly. It includes praying for our husbands and personally studying the scriptures daily. There needs to be kindness though for a marriage to last.
Mary and Martha
Marlo didn’t want to teach the toddlers. I feel for both her, anything seems hard when I’m tired, and the pastor’s wife, as I’ve been told how hard 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.
Both were so focused on their situation they didn’t think about the other’s needs or intentions. The pastor’s wife probably didn’t realize Marlo would feel bad.
I’ve found it is tiring when there are a lot of kids in one class. Yet, teaching and caring for this group was most fun when I taught my children too. I didn’t feel far away from Jesus. I surmise He was there with the kids as well as with the adults. I am thankful for the sweet friends who taught my toddler in their nursery class.
I agree we are quick to judge and sometimes treat other women harshly. Maybe that is the case when we don’t accept ourselves or see our own worth in God’s eyes. It’s easy to perceive other people’s ill-treatment but it’s harder to see when we misjudge someone else.
Mary and Martha do not seem maltreated to me.
Jesus doesn’t place us in a diminished role. The women in the Bible had an array of responsibilities in the stories of Deborah, the talented woman in the Old Testament, Elisabeth, and Anna most of whom are mentioned in this book. Jesus ministered to those He knew during His earthly ministry with gentleness, respect, and compassion.
Perhaps we could believe we are the community of Jesus Christ. Jesus wants us to care for each of His people regardless of interests.
Yes, our Heavenly Father made His daughters and sons equals. Devaluing our part in His plan by degrading our natural gifts damages our dignity!
Let’s appreciate our influential situation that allows us to be blameless in our motherhood. They help us and give us joy! Let’s value our part as Jesus regards us.
Marlo, unintentionally perhaps, shares her opinion about our responsibilities in Christ among other people. I’m a believer that Heavenly Father not only wants us to watch out for ourselves but He also asks us to be like His son Jesus Christ and help others.
Each service in my church is a new opportunity to trust Jesus provides the skills I need. I attain more than new talents, I gain new friends and it is fun! We can protect our lives by keeping gratitude in our hearts. Let’s covenant to serve like God’s son.
God has a plan for everyone. Resurrection is a gift to all from our Savior, Jesus Christ. Heavenly Father’s plan is for our happiness! He invites us to receive eternal life, dwell with Him forever (Heaven), by following Jesus. We must choose to keep His commandments.
The Bible tells of a merchant who gave everything to buy a pearl of great price. This pearl is like the Kingdom of Heaven. If we interest ourselves in following God’s son, Jesus, we can have this great pearl. It is essential that we involve ourselves in His work and choose to become like Jesus Christ.
I plan to be confident in being guided by the impressions I gain that flow from Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. Let’s strive to honor Christ.
A Samaritan Woman
I loved Marlo’s observation of Jesus’s finesse with the Samaritan woman at the well. It reminds me of the way He spoke to an adulterous woman. He spoke the truth in love. He 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 them when they repent.
Until we believe the same things in the scriptures, we can listen. I love that Marlo reminds us of our value to God. Jesus heals and justifies. He is there if we follow Him.
The hyperlinks in the ebook copy of Women of the Bible Speak Out to the scripture stories is a great feature. This made it easier to study while reading this book.
As Marlo reminds us, Jesus showed himself to Mary before His disciples. He loves you and will help you in your needs.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted on Book of Ruth Ann!
Eve
Marlo looks to Eve to learn about brokenness in life. She imagines Eve’s dismay at Adam’s betrayal as he “blames” her for knowing she is the one who ate the apple first. She maybe was sad because of what Adam said to God. Adam was telling the truth, though, about his first reason for not eating the fruit.
And the man said, The woman whom thou [intended] to be with me, she gave me [the fruit] of the tree, and I [ate it].
Genesis 3:12
Jesus quotes Adam (Gen 2:24) in Mark 10:7, “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife”. Jesus explains, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” This seems to mean Adam chose to keep his marriage vows with Eve. Since God clearly teaches consequences ahead of time, we can intuit Adam and Eve knew she would be sent from the garden because of her actions. I think Adam’s answer also refers to his marriage commitment with Eve.
I agree with the author that the Lord didn’t create enmity. I know God is creating beauty and fixing all misunderstandings in marriage through His Son’s atonement.
We can hope for joy in marriage as we see Adam honor his pledge with Eve. As the author says, God’s plan was, and still is, beautiful.
Marlo Shalesky’s message is: all pain and shame may be healed through Jesus.
Lot’s Daughters and a Levite’s Concubine: Abused
There are three stories in this chapter. One is not the abuse it seems on the surface of a woman but really two women against a man who is their father. The tragedy of the teen girl who was raped is horrible. It crushed her spirit and she ended up taking her life. I cried. No one should be abused!
Abuse is always sad. Teaching our families to respect people will help us work to avoid more scenarios. We shouldn’t get lost in trying to get retribution. Antagonism would decimate our integrity.
Lot lived in Sodom with his wife, her story is not discussed in this book, and daughters. Lot was portrayed here as “cast out” of Sodom by the Lord because of his wickedness. It seems as if 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.
To understand Lot’s story, I suggest we look at the previous chapter, Genesis 18, where Lot’s uncle, Abraham, begs the Lord to spare Sodom. The Lord agrees to not destroy the city if ten righteous people can be found there. He sends angels to Sodom. They come to Lot’s house and warn him to flee from Sodom before it is destroyed. Lot expresses gratitude for the Lord’s mercy. Then the Lord replies He has accepted Lot.
God spared the only righteous man, and his daughters, in the whole city. Lot chose to obey the Lord. He was not ‘cast out’ of Sodom.
So, this understanding, of Lot’s reputation of leading a righteous life, can aid us in evaluating the out of character statement he seemingly makes in verse eight. Whenever I read something that is inconsistent with the rest of God’s commandments, I check for an explanation. In this case, the Joseph Smith Translation clears up the missing info.
Lot did not offer his daughters to these men but refused. Even when they threatened him with bodily harm, he did not budge. I hope you realize God never condones abuse.
Marlo says the Levite was abusive in the story of the Levite and the concubine but I kind of think it was the owner of the home where they were staying. In the King James version of the Bible, it seems that it is not the Levite. Judges 19:23 specifically adds ‘the master of the house’. The man mentioned in verse twenty-five is probably the same person. The Levite seemed devastated when he found his concubine dead because of her torture. This story shows the lasting effects of sin with the result that a whole tribe is destroyed.
Sometimes these stories color how we perceive people. My experiences change how I perceive everyone. I’m healing personally. Jesus teaches me how to be at peace and whole again. That gift is from Jesus. He wants you to work for this too.
Jesus pays for our sins and feels our anguish so He is able to heal us. He comforts us in our sincere prayers and scripture study. Come to Christ!
Abigail: Endangered
This was my favorite chapter. Abigail’s courage in taking food to David and the kindness she shows for her foolish husband, by begging for his life, leaves me in awe. This is especially amazing when you think about Nabal probably treated Abigail harshly as Marlo suggests. I had missed this in my reading.
Marlo shares what she thinks biblical submission really means. It is not submitting to harsh treatment and foolish decisions. It is not scolding or trying to force our husbands to be more godly. It includes praying for our husbands and personally studying the scriptures daily. There needs to be kindness though for a marriage to last.
Mary and Martha
Marlo didn’t want to teach the toddlers. I feel for both her, anything seems hard when I’m tired, and the pastor’s wife, as I’ve been told how hard 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.
Both were so focused on their situation they didn’t think about the other’s needs or intentions. The pastor’s wife probably didn’t realize Marlo would feel bad.
I’ve found it is tiring when there are a lot of kids in one class. Yet, teaching and caring for this group was most fun when I taught my children too. I didn’t feel far away from Jesus. I surmise He was there with the kids as well as with the adults. I am thankful for the sweet friends who taught my toddler in their nursery class.
I agree we are quick to judge and sometimes treat other women harshly. Maybe that is the case when we don’t accept ourselves or see our own worth in God’s eyes. It’s easy to perceive other people’s ill-treatment but it’s harder to see when we misjudge someone else.
Mary and Martha do not seem maltreated to me.
Jesus doesn’t place us in a diminished role. The women in the Bible had an array of responsibilities in the stories of Deborah, the talented woman in the Old Testament, Elisabeth, and Anna most of whom are mentioned in this book. Jesus ministered to those He knew during His earthly ministry with gentleness, respect, and compassion.
Perhaps we could believe we are the community of Jesus Christ. Jesus wants us to care for each of His people regardless of interests.
Yes, our Heavenly Father made His daughters and sons equals. Devaluing our part in His plan by degrading our natural gifts damages our dignity!
Let’s appreciate our influential situation that allows us to be blameless in our motherhood. They help us and give us joy! Let’s value our part as Jesus regards us.
Marlo, unintentionally perhaps, shares her opinion about our responsibilities in Christ among other people. I’m a believer that Heavenly Father not only wants us to watch out for ourselves but He also asks us to be like His son Jesus Christ and help others.
Each service in my church is a new opportunity to trust Jesus provides the skills I need. I attain more than new talents, I gain new friends and it is fun! We can protect our lives by keeping gratitude in our hearts. Let’s covenant to serve like God’s son.
God has a plan for everyone. Resurrection is a gift to all from our Savior, Jesus Christ. Heavenly Father’s plan is for our happiness! He invites us to receive eternal life, dwell with Him forever (Heaven), by following Jesus. We must choose to keep His commandments.
The Bible tells of a merchant who gave everything to buy a pearl of great price. This pearl is like the Kingdom of Heaven. If we interest ourselves in following God’s son, Jesus, we can have this great pearl. It is essential that we involve ourselves in His work and choose to become like Jesus Christ.
I plan to be confident in being guided by the impressions I gain that flow from Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. Let’s strive to honor Christ.
A Samaritan Woman
I loved Marlo’s observation of Jesus’s finesse with the Samaritan woman at the well. It reminds me of the way He spoke to an adulterous woman. He spoke the truth in love. He 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 them when they repent.
Until we believe the same things in the scriptures, we can listen. I love that Marlo reminds us of our value to God. Jesus heals and justifies. He is there if we follow Him.
The hyperlinks in the ebook copy of Women of the Bible Speak Out to the scripture stories is a great feature. This made it easier to study while reading this book.
As Marlo reminds us, Jesus showed himself to Mary before His disciples. He loves you and will help you in your needs.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted on Book of Ruth Ann!
May 20, 2020
A deep and challenging look at 20 women of the Bible. This one will empower you to live life fully in the love of God, even in the face of gender-based hardships in your past. A must-read for women who want to heal and grow deeper with God, no matter what.
June 16, 2020
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 sex, 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. Sone 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.
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 sex, 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. Sone 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.
June 15, 2020
When I started reading this book, I didn’t know the journey it would take me on, the mix of emotions I would feel, or the awe I would experience after finishing a chapter. There were a few times I teared up, there were a few times I got angry at the world-especially the chapter on the woman caught in adultery in John 8, but every night I read a chapter, I felt feelings of humility and thankfulness toward God and my Savior. Which is exactly what these types of books are intended to do.
I will admit, I did not agree with everything the author said in her book, but they were just minor things. The point that Schalesky is truly getting across is that God is a loving and forgiving God, and that women-no matter the circumstances they go through-still receive God’s grace, love, and care. There is nothing that happens to us nor anything we do that can separate us from Him. And that, right there, is something that we should all be able to agree on.
I liked how she would tell a modern day story about a woman and then tie it to the story she was using from the Bible, to show that these Bible passages are still relevant today. And that we can still connect to them and the women from the Bible. And I liked how when she was telling the Bible story from the viewpoint of the woman, she would heavily use scripture as her guide.
I’m glad I got the opportunity to read this book. It gave me new insight and new appreciation for these women. I think it would be interesting to go through the Bible and look at other women’s stories, too-the ones not mentioned in the book. It would be interesting to see how they may have been mistreated and how God used their situation for His glory.
I would definitely recommend this book to any woman out there. We have all felt oppressed or dominated or less than, etc., at least once in our lives, and this book is relatable and eye-opening, and will leave you wanting to thank God over and over again.
I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
October 24, 2020
Marlo Schalesky's Women of the Bible Speak Out: Stories of Betrayal, Abuse, Healing, and Hope was a book I was excited to read as a woman in the church in 2020. Surrounded by heartbreaking stories of abuse, brokenness and mistreatment of women in the world around me + in history, the church has often been silent on these issues. Preferring to remain quiet on these issues has been the church's default to save the appearance of being above 'controversial culture' or worldly topics. In recent years the church has made great strides in addressing these issues, on a personal and general level, listening with empathy, responding with honesty, and lamenting sin. Marlo Schalesky takes this approach as she leads her readers through Scripture and different Biblical female characters who were used, abandoned, betrayed, rejected and devalued.
In each chapter, Marlo would outline the story of various Biblical characters by diving into their minds and stories in a fictional way, before dissecting the situation in a non-fictional way with grace, truth and compassion. She also took great care to link each story to situations that still happen in the world around us today. I really appreciated the non-fictional portions of Marlo's chapters, highlighting much of what was said and digesting the information in the context of today. The fictional portions of each chapter were not my favourite. I felt Marlo took too many artistic liberties or filled in blanks that could've been left empty.
The power of Women of the Bible Speak Out is that it welcomes an open, honest conversation about how women have been and still are often treated. This is an important conversation to have, especially in the church where we can highlight God's compassion, mercy and love despite those awful circumstances. Women are a part of God's story and His redemptive plan. They are His daughter and He loves and treasures them, even when the world does not.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
In each chapter, Marlo would outline the story of various Biblical characters by diving into their minds and stories in a fictional way, before dissecting the situation in a non-fictional way with grace, truth and compassion. She also took great care to link each story to situations that still happen in the world around us today. I really appreciated the non-fictional portions of Marlo's chapters, highlighting much of what was said and digesting the information in the context of today. The fictional portions of each chapter were not my favourite. I felt Marlo took too many artistic liberties or filled in blanks that could've been left empty.
The power of Women of the Bible Speak Out is that it welcomes an open, honest conversation about how women have been and still are often treated. This is an important conversation to have, especially in the church where we can highlight God's compassion, mercy and love despite those awful circumstances. Women are a part of God's story and His redemptive plan. They are His daughter and He loves and treasures them, even when the world does not.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 9, 2020
I was excited to read Women of the Bible Speak Out when I saw that the author speaks on women in the Bible no one else really writes about. This is geared toward women who have been hurt, abused, betrayed, etc and in need of healing. Schalesky deftly weaves their stories into her message and while I did not agree with everything she said, I still enjoyed this book very much. Schalesky is definitely unapologetic in her approach, not hesitating to call out the men in our society and church who use their authority or position to victimize women. However, I couldn't help but feel there was an agenda of some sort. Not that I necessarily disagree with it, but there were some things that just didn't vibe with me.
I definitely need to do a dive into Scripture to check on a few things, but I'm not mad about that. Any book that steers you toward THE Book is a good thing. I might need to watch the documentary Audrie and Daisy again but I'm pretty sure she mixed up the two girl's stories. An odd mistake but this book actually made me want to watch it and I discovered her error in the first 30 minutes. Small point but it bothered me.
With that said, what I really enjoyed was Schalesky's take on the womens' stories as they may have told them. Each one made me consider something I'd never thought of before, which is surprising. I've read the story of the first sin countless times yet never really looked at it from Eve's perspective. I never considered how Adam's finger pointing could have destroyed everything they had together. I'd never noticed that though Sarah does speak in other parts of Genesis, she doesn't say a word during the two times Abraham denies her the protection of marriage and tells her to pretend she's his sister to save his hide.
I'll probably end up eating this again just so I can do that deep dive. Will I recommend it to others? Sure, as long as they check it against Scripture. Thanks to NetGalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I definitely need to do a dive into Scripture to check on a few things, but I'm not mad about that. Any book that steers you toward THE Book is a good thing. I might need to watch the documentary Audrie and Daisy again but I'm pretty sure she mixed up the two girl's stories. An odd mistake but this book actually made me want to watch it and I discovered her error in the first 30 minutes. Small point but it bothered me.
With that said, what I really enjoyed was Schalesky's take on the womens' stories as they may have told them. Each one made me consider something I'd never thought of before, which is surprising. I've read the story of the first sin countless times yet never really looked at it from Eve's perspective. I never considered how Adam's finger pointing could have destroyed everything they had together. I'd never noticed that though Sarah does speak in other parts of Genesis, she doesn't say a word during the two times Abraham denies her the protection of marriage and tells her to pretend she's his sister to save his hide.
I'll probably end up eating this again just so I can do that deep dive. Will I recommend it to others? Sure, as long as they check it against Scripture. Thanks to NetGalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2020
With the recent headlines about gender-based abuse, power, harassment, and assault, it seems as if everyone is searching for answers. Marlo Schalesky provides a biblical response to the tough questions raised by these issues. She explores the stories of twenty women in Scripture, including Eve, Sarah, and Bathsheba—women who were betrayed, abused, endangered, blamed, and shamed. As she leads us in studying the biblical text, she draws our eye to God’s responses to these women and their situations: Eve: The Way It Was Supposed to Be
Sarai: Betrayed
Hagar: – Used
Lot’s Daughters & A Levite’s Concubine: Abused
Two Tamars: Rejected
Hannah: Devalued
Abigail: Endangered
Bathsheba: Sexualized
Esther: Dominated
Mary & Martha: Oppressed
A Samaritan Woman: Shamed
A Sinful Woman: Scorned
A Woman Caught in Adultery: Blamed
Women at the Tomb: Disbelieved
She points out a way to healing, wholeness, and freedom. In the midst of today’s #MeToo conversations, this book will give new voice to the remarkable women of Scripture—and new hope to many, many women today.
My Thoughts: This is an interesting book about women who have overcome betrayal, abuse, and how the Bible shows the healing that helped these women. The book shows us women like Sarah, Hagar, Lot's daughters just to name a few. The author then shows us through the Bible how they overcame their situations. The true-life illustrations help illustrate how women do feel in these situations. The one thing that the reader can remember is, is that God always offers grace in every situation. We see that throughout the Bible. Each woman mentioned in this book was offered grace from God and that He offers it to us as well. This is a book that would be useful for women who have been through difficult situations and are in need of healing. The author has done a wonderful job of illustrating her points in this book.
Sarai: Betrayed
Hagar: – Used
Lot’s Daughters & A Levite’s Concubine: Abused
Two Tamars: Rejected
Hannah: Devalued
Abigail: Endangered
Bathsheba: Sexualized
Esther: Dominated
Mary & Martha: Oppressed
A Samaritan Woman: Shamed
A Sinful Woman: Scorned
A Woman Caught in Adultery: Blamed
Women at the Tomb: Disbelieved
She points out a way to healing, wholeness, and freedom. In the midst of today’s #MeToo conversations, this book will give new voice to the remarkable women of Scripture—and new hope to many, many women today.
My Thoughts: This is an interesting book about women who have overcome betrayal, abuse, and how the Bible shows the healing that helped these women. The book shows us women like Sarah, Hagar, Lot's daughters just to name a few. The author then shows us through the Bible how they overcame their situations. The true-life illustrations help illustrate how women do feel in these situations. The one thing that the reader can remember is, is that God always offers grace in every situation. We see that throughout the Bible. Each woman mentioned in this book was offered grace from God and that He offers it to us as well. This is a book that would be useful for women who have been through difficult situations and are in need of healing. The author has done a wonderful job of illustrating her points in this book.
June 12, 2020
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.
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.
June 19, 2020
Props to the author for this game-changing, Biblically based, oh so relevant book. While this book deals with women's issues, I feel lay leaders, pastors, and our Christian men need to read it to understand the reality of these women's issues. The church in general for too long has silenced women crying out for help, justice, encouragement and more, and now is the time to end it. The author takes Biblical women and actually focuses on how the women most likely felt while facing betrayal, being used, being lied to and more just because they were women. The book is not a political movement, it is a Biblical movement. This book is for those who have been hurt, used, abused, and more just because they are a woman to find hope, understanding, compassion, and a fresh start while not demeaning the horrific experiences many have suffered. While I can't say I agree with the theology 100%, this is an absolute must read to at the very least provoke discussion on difficult topics, and to hopefully change the way we look at the reality women face so often and be an agent of Biblical change. The book takes Eve, Sarai, Hagar, the women at the tomb, and more and shows the story from their perspective, how that can relate to women's experiences today, and how the Lord never called for this. At the same time, the author doesn't politicize the Bible, or try to minimize the differences between men and women, but rather celebrates what the Bible explains women were uniquely created to be. Don't miss this absolute must read, and consider using it as a ministry/counseling resource as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
June 15, 2020
“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.
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.
June 16, 2020
The book "Women of the Bible Speak Out" by Marlo Schalesky is a book that I whole hardly recommend to every woman. But, at the same time, I am afraid that what I post doesn't do the book justice.
This book was one that at first glance at the title, I was thinking "oh great, this is going to take me forever to read and I won't be able to understand most of what is written because it is going to be a test book type book, but I am happy to say this book was not that way at all. It was a fast read and easily understood and I am glad I read it. It is one that I will keep and reread. I even brought the ebook copy to have on my iPad to reread when I need a reminder that when I feel rejected, devalued and blamed and controlled, and used, God still loves me and I am of valve to Him.
I knew each of these stories, but the way the author points out that even Abram abused Sarah when he lied about her being his sister instead of his wife shows that he left her vulnerable to sexual violation because his fears were more important then her safety.
The examples in this book explains the abuse and than the author goes on to explains what God does to makes us know that He loves and that He does not approve of abuse in any form.
I think this book is my favorite non fiction book of 2020.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
This book was one that at first glance at the title, I was thinking "oh great, this is going to take me forever to read and I won't be able to understand most of what is written because it is going to be a test book type book, but I am happy to say this book was not that way at all. It was a fast read and easily understood and I am glad I read it. It is one that I will keep and reread. I even brought the ebook copy to have on my iPad to reread when I need a reminder that when I feel rejected, devalued and blamed and controlled, and used, God still loves me and I am of valve to Him.
I knew each of these stories, but the way the author points out that even Abram abused Sarah when he lied about her being his sister instead of his wife shows that he left her vulnerable to sexual violation because his fears were more important then her safety.
The examples in this book explains the abuse and than the author goes on to explains what God does to makes us know that He loves and that He does not approve of abuse in any form.
I think this book is my favorite non fiction book of 2020.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
June 21, 2020
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.
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.
November 4, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! Women of the Bible Speak Out gives the reader an unique look at social injustice through the eyes of women that are in the Bible. It gives us a lens that helps us to see that God is for women and not against them and that He does not approve of the social injustice that can be imposed on them at times. It gave me a new perspective of the Bible stories referenced in the book that I had never heard before. I loved that the Bible Women gave their own account of what happened to them in the Bible. Being a woman on which injustices have been imposed on, I appreciated that the injustices laid out in the book were not swept under the rug, but were dealt with. I also appreciated how the author continued to tell the reader over and over that if these injustices happened to them that Christ still loves them and and has a purpose for them--to tell their story and to not be ashamed to get help. As soon as I started reading the book, I started telling people about it. I recommend this book to women who have experienced injustices of any kind--especially abuse or assault.. I believe and pray that anyone who reads this book will find strength to be the person God means them to be. Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
June 22, 2020
“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.
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.
May 11, 2020
Marlo Schalesky uses a variety of women’s stories from the Bible to help modern-day women heal from betrayal, abuse, healing, and more. She uses a different approach with her devotional which some may find quite appealing. She takes liberty to fill in the missing thoughts and emotions of the women during the parts of the story the Bible isn’t specifically clear about what may be going through their minds and hearts by using a first-person dialogue. I love the variety of women she showcases, from the more well-known Eve, Sarai, and Esther, to the lesser thought about Lot’s daughters, Tamar, and “A Sinful woman.” This book definitely got me thinking about the positions the women in the Bible were placed in, but more importantly, how God sees women and values and loves them, and we can always trust Him to help us out of situations we find ourselves in, whether they are circumstances of our own doing or due to circumstances beyond our control.
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.
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.
June 17, 2020
Thank you, Marlo Schalesky, for writing this book! Thank you for the courage to approach the subject of the sacred value of women with honesty and thoughtfulness. The author nailed the topic with sound, Biblical theology in support of the equality of women. This book will get added to my library as a resource I will use in my own ministry.
The book is easy to read because it is well organized and because of the author’s engaging writing style. This book would be an appropriate read for a wide range of readers, from church leaders to Bible study and small group members, to clients in counseling. Anyone, men and women, young and old would benefit from reading this book.
I wish there were more than just five stars to choose from. This book deserves every one of them. Well done, Marlo!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
The book is easy to read because it is well organized and because of the author’s engaging writing style. This book would be an appropriate read for a wide range of readers, from church leaders to Bible study and small group members, to clients in counseling. Anyone, men and women, young and old would benefit from reading this book.
I wish there were more than just five stars to choose from. This book deserves every one of them. Well done, Marlo!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
June 19, 2020
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.
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.
September 3, 2021
Isn't it amazing that a book written by a woman about women of the Bible can have a completely different perspective and framework than one written by a man! This book of stories of betrayal, abuse, healing, and hope certainly opened my eyes to another side of the lives of women, such as Sarai, Hagar, Lot's daughter's, Bathsheba, the woman caught in adultery, amongst others. God's redemptive grace shown to these women is seldom preached about. The author has revealed how each of these women has been used by God for His higher purposes. They have been seen, heard, and vindicated by their Creator. At times I felt angry as I read this book at how the patriarchy had forced women into subjective roles. The author's research into the early Church writings also repeated this; no wonder it has been such a long journey to #metoo. For readers who have been betrayed and abused, this book shows God's healing grace and new perspectives on how these women were indeed beloved daughters of the Most High. I was given a free copy of this book
June 13, 2020
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Most leaders in churches are men. A council of men decided what books made up the Bible. With so many male voices, finding a female perspective can be difficult. This book brings female Biblical perspectives front and center.
Its narrative sections give the reader insight into the women's possible thoughts and feeling during their lives as depicted in the Bible. Their challenging situations are then connected to the lives of women today and how God sees them.
This book rebukes the "traditional" Christian culture with its interpretation of the Bible. Women were made to be in God's image and then equal to men. Women's roles in life are more than wife, mother, and Bible school teacher.
The author's words hit my heart and gave me hope for my life and my continued journey as a Christian. I am thankful for the opportunity to have found and read this book.
Most leaders in churches are men. A council of men decided what books made up the Bible. With so many male voices, finding a female perspective can be difficult. This book brings female Biblical perspectives front and center.
Its narrative sections give the reader insight into the women's possible thoughts and feeling during their lives as depicted in the Bible. Their challenging situations are then connected to the lives of women today and how God sees them.
This book rebukes the "traditional" Christian culture with its interpretation of the Bible. Women were made to be in God's image and then equal to men. Women's roles in life are more than wife, mother, and Bible school teacher.
The author's words hit my heart and gave me hope for my life and my continued journey as a Christian. I am thankful for the opportunity to have found and read this book.
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