Don’t Forget the Old Testament

There is so much more we can glean if we strive to learn from the whole Bible.

Genesis 44:1-34

Reference:  v.12  Then the steward proceeded to search, beginning with the oldest and ending with the youngest.  And the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  The story of Joseph is my husband’s favourite Bible story.  He’s not even that partial to musicals but there is something about Joseph’s life that grabs his attention.  It contains a roller-coaster ride of events and emotions and concludes with a much anticipated happy ending.  We can learn a great deal from Joseph as he upholds a Godly character of faithfulness and perseverance through all the trials of his life.

Application:  The story of Joseph is not the only Old Testament passage that contains much wonder and depth for us to draw from today.  In our churches and Bible studies we are often more comfortable drawing examples and illustrations from the New Testament.  And yet there is so much more we can glean if we strive to learn from the whole Bible.  Yes, the Old Testament contains some long genealogies; yes, there are copious amounts of laws listed in it; yes, there is much gruesome fighting.  But the God who lives and breathes through us today is the very same God who lived and breathed through those faithful followers in the Old Testament too.  Don’t rule it out as 37 books you don’t understand.  Show some good Old Testament perseverance and dive right in!

Prayer:  Lord, you have given us many things to guide our way.  We have faith communities to support us, Christian mentors to guide us and the scriptures to teach us.  Help us to draw on all these strengths so that we can be greater followers of You.  Amen.

What is your favourite Bible story?  How do you feel about the Old Testament?

Genesis