Do I Have Character or am I One?

Why does the Bible include skeptical Thomas, impulsive Simon Peter, and Judas Iscariot, an uncommitted follower?

Because God knew there would be unconvinced believers that needed proof like Thomas did. And when they caught hold of the truth they would jump from following Jesus as Rabbi to knowing Jesus as Lord and God.

God knew that there would be rash believers that would jump in fully unprepared to walk on water, but they like Peter would press on, have success, and grow to do mighty works in the name of Jesus the Messiah.

And God knew that there would be people in churches listening each week, speaking God’s words; words that would never reach their hearts.  People like Judas who called themselves Christ followers who would never really understand nor accept Jesus’ deity.  Did you notice that Judas was the only one who called Jesus Rabbi at the Last Supper while all the others claimed him as Lord?

God shines a light on the Jonah’s who run from his calling. On the Noah’s who endure years of ridicule and long obedience, and He shines on the Job’s of the world who lose so much yet never lose their trust in God.

Why does God shine a light on the Daniel’s and the Dorcas’, and the David’s? 

Why? So we can see the virtues and the failings of these people all through God’s spiritual lens. Scripture has given us earthly examples, full of devasting letdowns and glorious mountain tops vistas, so that we can see ourselves in His Story.

We too will fall somewhere between the pages of our personal story. Though our failings need not keep us from the call of our Bridegroom as long as we continue to learn, listen, and obey his voice. So that when our call comes, we can be like Abraham climbing that spiritual mountain and rise to glory.

And upon arrival, we too will echo Thomas’s words, “My Lord and my God!”

Be encouraged, it all starts by moving one step closer.

Be blessed and be a blessing.

~Debbie G

Thomas said, “My Lord and my God!” John 20:28

Judas, who would betray him, answered, “Is it I, Rabbi?” Matthew 26:25

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