Favorites

     With all of the examples in Scripture of fallen human beings like us, do you have a favorite story or a favorite person in Biblical history, that has taught you a valuable lesson? Peter spoke without thinking, yet Jesus forgave him and used him in mighty ways. Paul was an enemy of the church and God transformed him to become the greatest evangelist of all time. He wrote most of the New Testament.

     Daniel remained true to God, even as a young man in enemy territory, refusing to bow down to the king. God protected him, even from death in the lion’s den.  Ruth stayed true to her mother-in-law  after their husbands died, making the decision to remain in a strange land, God guided her into new love and hope. Moses began his ministry at age 80. Caleb was one of only two Jewish men from the original group of millions to make it into the promised land, still full of strength and passion at an old age. Joseph was betrayed by all of his brothers, and years later, had the opportunity to save them from starving and to offer forgiveness. The list goes on and on. Become familiar with all of the great stories of real men and women, like you and me.

     Jesus is our redeemer and everything from Genesis to Revelation points to Him, to His forgiveness, to His ability to redeem and restore, to His gift of eternal life. I am looking forward to spending time with my favorites in heaven.

     One of my questions to Paul will be, “What was the thorn in your side that God did not heal?”  He found strength in his weakness and many have pondered the meaning of the thorn. He was a writer and I believe he may have suffered some sort of blindness, just like me. He mentions his friends being willing to give him their eyes (Galatians 4:15) and that he wrote in his own hand in large letters.

See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand? Galatians 6:11

     Isn’t that amazing? It brings me comfort. Who do you identify with in the Bible? Do you have a favorite?  The opportunitiy to meet them and speak with them will be here soon. We can take all the time in the universe to meet all of our favorites!

Father,

Thank You for Biblical examples. All of them had flaws and frailties, just as we do. You can use us, just as You used them to change the world. We identify with the real stories of the ancient paths in Your Word. (Jeremiah 6:16)

In Jesus name,

Amen