Written To Teach

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

Romans 15:4

WHY DOES THE Bible have so many stories? Especially stories of failure, lust, deceit, and violence? One reason may be to teach us, to give us hope and encouragement when we fail or are tempted to sin.

Maybe God wants us to read and study the Bible because those stories will dig deep into our hearts and show us how to triumph in difficult times. Job, Samuel, Abraham, and King David all went through tough circumstances, but we can take comfort and strength from their experiences.

What story in the Bible most encourages you? Which one do you consider precious because it has helped you so many times? Everyone has different favorites. God gave you those stories to keep you stoked, make you believe things can work in your life, and motivate you not to give up.

Through stories God teaches us the great principle that he is with us and works in a mighty way. His promise is to use those stories to build us up.