Did you ever have a hero who wore a cape and had special powers?
Fantasy heroes pale in comparison to real-life heroes! Awe-inspiring people from biblical times can seem like heroes to us, and their stories open our eyes to the source of their greatness.
No doubt as a child you heard some Bible stories that highlighted the mighty works of God. You learned about Noah’s animal-filled ark or David’s successful sling shot or Daniel’s safe lion encounter. As you delve into Bible stories as an adult, richer insights are gained than you could have understood as a child. Often times, biblical accounts for children are tempered as to not be dark with sin or convey shocking works of a jealous, holy God.
Too often as adults, though, we do not revisit and study those “children’s Bible stories.” We, then, miss out on the depths of what God wants to teach us through history. When we reread the biblical accounts, our eyes open to patterns of what God commanded, how he was at work, and when he extended mercy or consequences. Through wisdom and understanding, God works upon our hearts to reveal his holiness, power, and faithful love.
When we dig into these amazing stories of old, we might see how we relate to the main character.
Are there similar character traits and personal struggles? In these, may we be encouraged that God works in his best ways. It is through our weakness that God showcases who he is! As God told the apostle Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9a NIV). Let’s remember that life itself is because of God, about God, and points to God. God’s kindness, forbearance, and patience is meant to lead us to him (Romans 2:4). Isn’t it encouraging to know that we are wanted, valued, loved, and used by the God of the universe?
If we only gloss over the stories of the great people of faith, we catch sight of the events but may miss the heart of the person in whom God was working.
Our situations will likely be different from theirs, but we each have a heart that God wants to join with his.
Like faithful Noah, will we obediently follow God when surrounded by wickedness (Genesis 6-8)?
Like dependent David, will we confidently trust God when overwhelmed by evil (1 Samuel 17)?
Like committed Daniel, will we steadfastly stand for God when we are told to oppose him (Daniel 6)?
As with those of ancient faith, may God display his mighty work in us and through us, for his glory!
Why not pick up your Bible and read one of your favorite childhood Bible stories today?
And, if you work through Follow and Lead, you’ll be reading a Bible story each week!