The Bible is God’s inspired word. Why are we not surprised that God has incredible skills as a writer?
Recently, our Writers Cafe group shared where we were at in our writing goals. As usual, our writing couldn't be separated from stories of our private lives. As I listened, I was struck by how easily we could communicate, using the stories from scripture. When speaking of a family member's situation, one explained, “God showed us she was like Moses.” We all knew exactly what she meant in the context of the situation.
The Old Testament and the Gospels overflow with examples of show-don’t-tell. Honest, no-holds-barred stories of human failings, fear and folly speak to us in ways no lecture ever could.
Why would God inspire his prophets to write about the worst of mankind? Because God isn't looking to be popular. He's looking to show us that no matter what we've done, or what's happened in our lives, we needn’t be afraid we've lost his protection.
When we find ourselves like David, betrayed, or as a betrayer, we know God is there.
When we suffer the repercussions of making a worldly choice, as Abraham did with Hagar, we know God is there.
When we find ourselves threatened, in a precarious position as Esther was, we know God is there.
When we run from his call, as Gideon and Jonah did, we know God is there.
Even lost in the depths of depression, unable to face life any longer, as Elijah was, we know God is there.
God's word tells of the worst of the human condition, yet no one was abandoned. From his heavenly heights God reached down to each of these miserable souls. In a way that was personal to their situation, he drew their eyes back to him, away from this world and back to his, to discover his glory.
And then he had someone write about it.
And then he had someone write about it.
Today is no different. The light of God's hope can penetrate the darkest circumstance, the darkest soul. And we, my writer friends, are the ones he's called to tell the story.
Dear Lord, just as did the people of old, your Word Warriors have lived, and are living stories that need to be told. As we ride the unpredictable waves of writing, may we seek you as reluctant Gideons, determined Ruths, confident Davids, broken Rahabs, and impetuous Peters, so you can manifest your glory in all we write. May your hope shine through us to a dark and hurting world. Amen.
It's been a joy to share my 14th of the month InScribe Blog spot with you this past year. I now open this spot for someone else who God is calling to do a regular or occasional guest post. Is that you? If so, contact Tracy Krauss.
Blessings on your Christmas season. May the Lord's glory shine on you and through you.
