The best stories include characters we care about, an interesting plot, as well as some seemingly insurmountable obstacles. There are elements of surprise, suspense and discouragement; even despair and seeming hopelessness. In the hands of a skillful writer, the journey raises questions, but it is all resolved in a satisfying ending.
Is it any wonder the Creator of life uses these components when He is writing the stories of our lives?
The stories recorded for us in the Bible show the ups and downs of unique and eventful lives as well as the infinite creativity of the Author. Noah spent a year on the ark after the flood, waiting for the waters to recede. God used a creek and ravens to feed Elijah during a drought and famine. God sent Isaiah to proclaim a message to people who wouldn’t listen.
Through whatever challenges people faced, God revealed He had a higher purpose than what might be evident in the moment. God used years of sheep-tending to prepare both Moses and David to lead His people. The unjust treatment that sent Joseph into slavery and then prison prepared him to serve in the palace. Joseph’s position then paved the way for God’s people to grow and thrive in Egypt. After they became enslaved in Egypt, God led them out, and sustained them for forty years in the wilderness with manna and with clothes and shoes that didn’t wear out.
The story of life that unfolds in the pages of Scripture, reveals periods of uncertainty, conflict and doubts. Underneath it all, the faithfulness of God carries His people through whatever they experience. He always fulfills His promises.
The Bible is the story of how a Sovereign God accomplishes His purposes regardless of the failings of His people. God created a perfect world. He created man to tend and enjoy it. Adam and Eve deliberately disobeyed God’s direct command. They thought they knew better. The world and mankind have suffered the consequences ever since. We live in a fallen world. Each of us, in our own way has also gone outside the boundaries God has prescribed for us.
Sin could have ruined the story. Sin breaks our relationship with God. But God promises hope. From the beginning, He sprinkled clues about a coming Redeemer. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He took on Himself the punishment for all the sin we have all committed. When we acknowledge our own willfulness to disobey, we can turn to Him for forgiveness. He restores the relationship sin has broken. He is the answer to our questions. He is our security in the midst of instability. He doesn’t promise an easy, trouble-free life, but He does provide a satisfying life to those who trust Him. Each of our unique, individual stories fits into His eternal story. God promises a new world, fully restored, to those who come to Him.
Living by faith is trusting the Author and eagerly anticipating what He is going to do next. It is knowing we head toward a satisfying conclusion.
When we are in Christ, we can know we are part of the best story of all.
. . . Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith . . . Hebrews 12:1,2
Blessings,
Phyllis
I would love to hear your thoughts. Please leave a comment below.
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Copyright 2023 Phyllis L. Farringer
Phyllis,
Your opening sure caught my attention. And as I think about God’s writing of our lives, it is full of mystery, power and wonder. And surely, it is all meant to carry out God’s purposes and to give Him the glory. Your scriptural sharing here calls us to see God’s will every day.
Thank you, Charlotte
I’m so thankful that I am a part of His story and He can use even me to accomplish His purposes! I really enjoy your blog Phyllis. Keep it coming!
So glad you take time to read it. Thank you Holly.