In Genesis 38, we find the account of Tamar. She was married to Judah’s oldest son, Er. He died. And as was custom in that day, Judah ordered his next son (Onan) to be Tamar’s husband, but he also died. [Tamar, what are you doing to these men?] So Judah told Tamar to go back and live in her family’s house as a widow. When his third son was of marrying age Judah promised to send him to be Tamar’s husband. [Let me tell you, this family knew how to share.]

Are you with me so far? It gets better. Judah (now a widow himself) made a trip to Timnah where Tamar lived; however, his trip was not for the purpose of Tamar. Tamar learned of Judah’s travels and was angered by the fact that Judah did not follow through with his promise. But she had a plan to seek revenge on Judah. Tamar discarded her widow’s clothing and disguised herself outside the city gates. Judah saw Tamar and thought she was a prostitute, so he proceeded to “enjoy” some time with her, never knowing who she really was.

A few months later Tamar announced she was pregnant. Judah, not knowing that Tamar was pregnant with his twins ordered that she be put to death for her sin. [Hmmm, what about Judah’s sin?] No worries, Tamar kept some items that belonged to Judah to prove he was the one who had relations with her. [Too bad paternity tests weren’t around at that time in history.]

“I am pregnant by the man who owns these," she said. And she added, "See if you recognize whose seal and cord and staff these are.” Judah recognized them and said, "She is more righteous than I, since I wouldn’t give her to my son Shelah." Genesis 38:25-26

Of all the women we have studied thus far, Tamar stumps me. I don’t believe her intention was to become pregnant with her father-in-law’s children. She just wanted to embarrass Judah by exposing his indiscretion with her. So, what is the significance of her story? What can we learn from Tamar? She believed in a promise that was never to be, and took it on herself to right a wrong. Perhaps that is the lesson. She believed in a human promise. How many times have we fallen victim to man’s promises only to be disappointed?

"All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field.” Isaiah 40:6b

“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8

And there you have it. God’s promises (His Word) stands forever. Thank you Lord for Tamar’s story and the reminder that you keep your promises. And what great promises they are.