Index to Profiles

Index to Profiles

Profiles

ADAM AND EVE The Beginning of Suffering

THE MOMENT EVE AND ADAM bit into the forbidden fruit, their sweet innocence turned to bitter guilt. In the garden, they had known bliss and contentment. Suddenly their happiness gave way to anxiety and fear. Paradise began to suffer.

From that day on, Adam and Eve groaned for release from the iron grip of misery and pain—just as we do now. As a result of their disobedience to God’s single command, the curse brought suffering on all of creation. As God’s unique creations, the first man and woman both experienced the curse, but in different ways.

The woman’s most precious experience, giving birth to her child, would come at the expense of greatly increased physical pain (). Man’s work to provide food now came at the cost of heavy toil and sweat (). For the rest of their lives, Adam and Eve ran the gamut of physical difficulties, not the least of which was the experience of aging itself. From these two “first sufferers” arose the entire human population, which today includes one billion persons with disabilities.

Suffering began with one act of disobedience

Due to one willful act, emotional suffering also struck the first couple. Feelings of shame, fear, and dread became part of living in a fallen world. Adam and Eve experienced alienation—pain that stems from damaged personal relationships—bringing with it isolation, rejection, and loneliness. Throughout their lives, Adam and Eve suffered emotional crises, including the heart-wrenching agony of seeing one child murdered by another ().

The first human suffering began in a paradise designed for warm fellowship with God and joyous worship of him for all that he had created. Shockingly, Eve and Adam rejected this glorious gift on the advice of a snake to eat the fruit and “be like God” (). But before we judge them too harshly, we must consider what it is that we may be choosing over a life lived in fellowship with our creator. If we don’t like the answer, there is hope in God’s promise of the second Adam—Christ, our “life-giving Spirit” ().

CAIN The First Murderer

JEALOUSY CAN BE TOXIC. Cain was jealous that his brother Abel’s sacrifice was accepted by God, and that ultimately led to the first murder. In the willful destruction of his brother, Cain deeply offended the very One whose approval he sought.

Cain’s intense anger at Abel had more to do with his relationship with God than with his brother. Cain worked the land growing tasty crops, some of which he brought to God as an offering. But Abel, a shepherd, brought God the very best of his firstborn lambs. When God rejected Cain’s gift because it failed to honor him on his terms, Cain took it out on Abel. And even though God said to Cain, “You will be accepted if you do what is right” (), Cain’s resentment toward his brother continued to grow. Finally, Cain lured Abel to a field and killed him.

Pain and suffering can tempt us to envy others. We dwell on questions like these: Why are my friends successful, and I’m stuck with so many limitations? Why am I always sick while others are blessed with good health? Cain’s life clearly shows what can happen when we fail to give our pain to God and come close to him, making room for him to come close to us ().

Keep your focus on God and worship him wholeheartedly

Sometimes a family member’s suffering must take precedence over our own needs, at least for a time. Even then, God has not forgotten anyone. He cares deeply—and equally—about all of us and continues to work his purposes in each of our lives.

The story of Cain and Abel could have had a very different outcome if Cain had turned his focus back to God and brought his offering in a spirit of repentance and worship. God will always honor our sacrifice—when we come to him on his terms, allowing God to be God in our lives.

NOAH Faithful Man in a Faithless Time

“IT’S THE END OF THE WORLD!” For Noah, this wasn’t just a dramatic overstatement—it was a fact.

Since the sins of the first family, humanity continued its moral decline to the point that corruption and violence overwhelmed the earth. Evil had become so thoroughly entrenched that God lamented of ever having made human beings. He decided to start anew.

In contrast to his contemporaries, Noah followed a different path. Without arrogance or pride, he deliberately chose to live a righteous life and “found favor with the LORD,” walking in “close fellowship with God” (). Given the depravity of his culture—which was probably worse than our own—Noah’s life must not have been easy. But Noah stood firm, even when the call came to build the ark.

Take a stand for righteousness

Before the flood, Noah likely suffered a great deal of ridicule and scorn from skeptics around him. It must have been painful to watch his friends and neighbors ignore his warnings of God’s impending judgment. When the great flood finally came, Noah witnessed firsthand the destructive fury of God’s wrath against sin and evil poured out on all creation. Though he and his immediate family were spared, they endured close quarters with a drifting zoo of smelly animals for over a year. After emerging from the ark, they faced the daunting task of repopulating the earth and rebuilding civilization. But through it all, God provided.

No matter how severe the calamity, distress, or difficulty, God’s purposes continue and always prevail. Like Noah, we are called to take a stand for righteousness in the midst of evil. It won’t always be easy, convenient, or comfortable. But in the end, we have God’s covenant to protect and watch over us. What better promise could we have than that?

ABRAHAM Father of Faith

ABRAHAM KNEW A THING OR TWO about uncertainty. In a culture where family and heirs were highly valued—even a practical necessity—God asked Abraham to leave his home, his country, and everything familiar. Such uncertainty brought fear and stress. How could Abraham find a new country, a new people? For many years, he and his wife, Sarah, had also struggled with the painful uncertainty of infertility and childlessness. How would he be able to take care of himself and Sarah in their old age? Would they even find a suitable place to live in this faraway land to which God was calling him?

These are practical questions that people throughout the ages have had to face, especially parents of children with special needs. Some have had to relocate to have access to the best medical treatments. Others have left jobs to serve at home. And all of them worry about who will care for their child when they are no longer able to.

In spite of uncertainties, Abraham set out by faith. When his moving caravan arrived in Canaan, God abundantly blessed his family as promised. But like many childless couples, Abraham asked, “O Sovereign LORD, what good are all your blessings when I don’t even have a son?” () God answered with a promise of an heir, but none appeared. So at the urging of his wife, Abraham took matters into his own hands, having a child by his wife’s servant Hagar. This lack of faith brought suffering with repercussions felt even to the present day.

In God’s timing Abraham and Sarah conceived a son in their old age. Isaac, whose name means “laughter,” was a miracle child. He was the promised offspring through which all the nations of the world would be blessed. So imagine Abraham’s terror when God asked him to offer up Isaac as a sacrifice. No, the thought was utterly incomprehensible—how could the same God who had promised Isaac now take away the child who seemed to be the only means of fulfilling the promise? Abraham’s agony at the prospect of killing his son, albeit in sacrifice to God, must have brought him unbearable grief. How could there be a future afterward? And yet, with God, there is always a way. Abraham was prepared to act, trusting in God’s faithfulness, when a ram appeared in the thicket (). The uncertainty of the future was met with dramatic provision from God.

Trust God for his provision

However, Abraham did not always act in faith. On more than one occasion he dishonestly concealed his wife’s identity in an effort to protect his own life instead of trusting God for his safety and protection. But despite his failures, Abraham is called the “spiritual father of those who have faith” in . Through it all, he learned to trust God and to wait for his timing and purposes. He could not always see how God would fulfill what he’d promised, and, like the rest of us, he sometimes stumbled as a result of his cloudy vision. But Abraham believed God—and “God counted him as righteous because of his faith” ().

We tend to think of “giants of the faith” as being somehow in a radically different category than we are. And yet, so many of the struggles they faced are the same dilemmas we encounter today—infertility, fear, and uncertainty about the future. But when all is said and done, we too must believe God. As we do, we follow in the footsteps of Abraham, the father of faith.

In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.

GALATIANS 3:6-7

DOUG MAZZA A Father’s Surrender

MANY FATHERS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES have faced crisis moments when total surrender seemed like the only way through. They’ve walked up the mountain with the same gut-wrenching fear Abraham must have felt while chopping wood to sacrifice his son Isaac, as God had instructed (). Doug Mazza is one of those fathers.

Doug’s son Ryan was born with Crouzon syndrome, a chromosomal imperfection that deforms the skull and affects the respiratory system. For Ryan it meant thirteen difficult surgeries before age three, which left Doug pacing the halls of the ICU asking God, “What purpose could you have in all this? What kind of life will he have?”

Like Abraham, Doug was a leader in business and family matters—a “fixer” of problems. But one night as Ryan lay in a coma, completely nonresponsive for twelve hours, Doug’s heart was broken. He slid to the floor beside his son’s bed and cried out to God. Realizing he was powerless, Doug surrendered Ryan to the Lord. While the solution didn’t come in that moment, as when Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught in a thicket (), Ryan lived.

Let go of the controls and surrender to God’s sovereignty

Reflecting on that day, Doug says he knows Christ had been waiting for him to let go of the controls and trust the One who had always been in authority. Doug had asked God to show him the purpose for his son’s life, and instead God showed him the purpose for his own life.

Today, Doug Mazza serves as president and chief operating officer of Joni and Friends and is the proud father of a grown son with severe disabilities. He is quick to point out that the child who wasn’t expected to live more than a few moments has become his greatest teacher. Ryan has never spoken a word, but his life is a clear testimony that God can be trusted.

JACOB A Scheming Patriarch’s Fresh Start

LIAR. CHEAT. THIEF. SCOUNDREL. SCHEMER. These words described Jacob well. But sometimes the trajectory of a person’s life turns on a single point. For Jacob, that pivotal moment came late one dark night when—alone, tired, and scared—he met God and came away a different man.

Prior to his encounter with God, Jacob had cleverly used his skills in the art of manipulation to secure the birthright, blessing, and inheritance reserved for his older brother, Esau. Their relationship was so deeply fractured that Esau plotted to kill Jacob, forcing him to flee and live in exile. Jacob sought refuge with distant relatives and after his uncle Laban tricked him, he once again turned to conniving, which enabled him to accumulate large flocks and made him a wealthy man. But his success came at a heavy price. Jacob’s scheming had left terrible devastation in its wake.

Eventually, Jacob became heartsick. He longed to return home, to make a fresh start. Ever been there?

Unsure of the reception he would receive, Jacob sent gifts in an effort to appease Esau. Then he prayed, “O LORD, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau” (). Jacob recognized his desperate need and that’s when God touched him. Isn’t that what we all need?

A life-changing encounter with God

Jacob’s personal encounter with God made all the difference and forever changed him. He could now be used to form a nation through which the Messiah would eventually come. Even his name was changed that day from Jacob, which means “deceiver,” to Israel, which means “God fights.” But Jacob did not emerge from that night-long wrestling match unscathed. He came away with a permanent disability—a valuable reminder of his life-changing encounter with God ().

When Jacob returned home, he was a broken man. He had suffered greatly, much of it the result of his own sin. In the end, Jacob serves as one of the most dramatic biblical pictures of how brokenness and suffering can radically transform an individual’s character and life’s trajectory when touched by the power of God.

JOSEPH Unlikely Savior

SITTING ALONE IN A DUNGEON year after year, Joseph knew the nausea of hunger, the stench of decay, the insanity of isolation. He knew the betrayal of his own flesh and blood. Joseph’s brothers, who had rejected and nearly killed him, instead opted at the last moment to sell him into a life of slavery (). After that, Joseph tasted the bitter pill of injustice when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of assaulting her, which landed him in prison without due process and with no end in sight ().

Had God forgotten Joseph? Given the circumstances, it would have been difficult to think otherwise.

Surely Joseph must have prayed for an end to his suffering, but he had no way of knowing that God’s answer would be a means of saving an entire nation from famine and starvation. He couldn’t have known that his family would eventually be reunited, his relationship with his brothers restored, and his father laid to rest in peace. Joseph couldn’t have envisioned that he would someday be second-in-command to Pharaoh himself, wielding immense power in a land neither of his birth nor of his choosing.

Yet in the midst of difficult circumstances, Joseph remained faithful—so faithful, in fact, that the prison steward came to trust and rely heavily on Joseph, putting him in charge of the day-to-day operations of the prison. Even in terribly unjust suffering, Joseph was learning valuable skills that would later prove extremely useful. No, God had not forgotten Joseph.

God does not forget those who suffer

When called upon to serve his fellow prisoners by interpreting their dreams, Joseph did not hold out, bitterly refusing to use his gifts on behalf of others. Instead, he delivered the messages given to him from the Lord and trusted him for the outcome. Later, when called upon to serve Pharaoh with his God-given gifts, Joseph again gave freely, despite having been wronged. Ultimately, he was used by God to bless and save the lives of many ().

Have you had a dungeon-like experience where you’ve felt mistreated? Have you cried out to God, wondering if he even hears? God has not forgotten you. In the midst of injustice, you can humble yourself in the sight of the Lord because he will be faithful to lift you up—in his time, for his purposes, and to his glory.

MOSES Leading in Weakness

MOSES STOOD BAREFOOT on the sharp pebbles of the Judean desert. He had been standing in awe of a single bush that was engulfed in flames yet not burned. Suddenly, he heard a voice calling out his name. He hardly felt the hot sand between his toes because it was the Lord’s voice saying, “Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground” ().

Born under the threat of execution, Moses knew the Lord had provided for him in his suffering even before he could remember. When Pharaoh’s daughter heard Moses’ cries from a crude basket in the Nile bulrushes, she rescued him. She then raised him in the courts of Pharaoh, aided by Moses’ own mother’s nurture as a nursemaid. Schooled in all of Egypt’s wisdom, Moses enjoyed the privileges of Egyptian royalty and lived a pampered life. But one day he killed an Egyptian slave master for abusing a Hebrew slave. This one act was a rejection of his royal Egyptian heritage, and Moses became a Hebrew fugitive on the run. God was working in his heart and, unbeknownst to Moses, preparing him for his later mission: leading the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land.

Leadership is not limited to the elite

God had heard the cries of his people and was faithful to the covenant he had made with Abraham (). When commissioned to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt, Moses initially declined on the grounds that he was incapable due to a speaking disability. God chided Moses for questioning his Creator and provided a way for Moses to overcome his weakness. Moses needed only to trust and obey.

In time and through more suffering, Moses eventually became the servant God called him to be. This reluctant messenger gave the Hebrews God’s perfect law and also was instructed to build the first earthly Tabernacle so that God could dwell among his people. It was also through Moses that God spoke Israel’s official statement of faith: “Listen, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone” (). To this day God’s people remember Moses as a great teacher, national leader, and God’s prophet. God enabled his reluctant messenger to complete the mission that was given him. God will enable us, too—very often in and through our suffering and disabilities.

FOREIGNERS Under God’s Protection

IMAGINE BEING ALL ALONE without protection. The Israelites were called “aliens” and “strangers” during this time because they did not have the security of a place to call home. They literally were people without a country—refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers for economic, political, and religious reasons.

Now imagine living within the precincts of Israel as a foreigner. You would have heard the law as it was read. Amazingly, over and over again, it stated that non-Israelites were to be loved, guarded, cared for, and given provision (, ). Hospitality was a Near Eastern tradition, but to be protected by law within a foreign nation was rare! Further, people with physical disabilities—such as those blind or deaf—were also sheltered!

If you were a stranger in other countries in the ancient Near East, chances are you would be enslaved. But if you were a foreigner in Israel, you would be protected. Why? Because they are made in God’s image, all people have worth, value, and dignity. Part of the reason for such generosity was that God wanted his people to remember what it felt like to be ostracized (). Even Abraham had been a foreigner (, , )!

God’s love and faithfulness extend to all people

The basis for graciousness toward others comes from the character of God. God’s love and faithfulness extend to all people. No matter our family heritage, health problems, immigration status, ethnicity, or intellectual ability, the gospel is open to all ().

Caring for others shows our adherence to the eternal law—that loving others is a demonstration of our love for God. Disability, infirmity, frailty, and supposed weakness of any kind find resolution and acceptance through God’s law; it’s a source of hope for those who consider themselves to be “different” or “less than”—a foreigner or stranger in the eyes of the world.

PRIESTS Imaging a Perfect God

TRANSFORMERS THAT SIT ATOP TELEPHONE POLES move thousands of electrical watts from power lines into homes and businesses by transforming them into safe, usable amounts of electrical energy. Electrical currents are safely accessible for everyday use because of transformers. This is similar to the role of Israel’s priests—they served as transformers. They stood between the untouchable holiness of Yahweh and his people. Holy sacrifices demanded holy sacrificers.

The reason strict physical restrictions were required of the priesthood in Leviticus was to symbolize the perfection and holiness of God (). Today, Jesus Christ is both our perfect priest and our perfect sacrifice. He is the mediator between us and God (; ). Christ’s redemption makes salvation possible for all people, no matter their physical condition or ability. Our weaknesses are no longer an issue for our faith, because we are enabled by Jesus’ strength ().

Israelite priests were required to offer sacrifices, intercede in prayer, communicate laws, and provide moral examples for the people. Jesus fulfilled and exceeded all these requirements, yet he is also our brother (; ). His unblemished personhood and sacrifice mean our disabilities will no longer keep us from our heavenly Father.

Restrictions due to disabilities are a thing of the past

Because of Jesus’ perfection (), we can now all become priests to one another. Disabilities become irrelevant if we have first come to know him (). We offer sacrifices (), we pray for others (), we teach (; ), and we are to be examples of ethical purity ().

God had justifiable reasons for imposing limitations on the Israelite priests since they were the mediators between holy Yahweh and his people. How grateful we are that these Old Testament limitations no longer exist. Jesus, our perfect High Priest, makes us perfect; and all Christians, no matter their physical, intellectual, or emotional condition, can now approach the throne of God ().

THE COMMON ISRAELITE 

Worshiping an Uncommon God

DISPLACED. HOMELESS. REFUGEE. STRANGER. Words that described the common Israelite as they wandered the wilderness can also describe us. We feel lonely at times, destitute and hopeless in the midst of our troubles. We live in a world that Scripture assures us is not our ultimate home (). God’s Levitical law connected the Israelites with his direction and protection. It can also be a map for us, establishing common ground with one another within the difficulties, distresses, and disappointments of life. God’s decrees can limit and lessen both the consequences and the frustration which come with these negative circumstances.

The world of tyranny shifted to a world of grace

The Levitical law provided a basis for the Israelites to view themselves differently. Calling it “life-changing” would be putting it mildly! The world of tyranny and slavery they knew in Egypt shifted to a world of gifting and grace under God’s rule. In some ways Israel’s experience mirrored that of surrounding nations—deities, sacrifices, and priests were a normal part of life. But what was unusual was God’s demonstration of grace and his command for monotheism—worship of him alone. Sabbaths, covenants, land redemption, indentured servant release, Jubilee years, and even dietary restrictions made Israel stand out from other nations. For instance, tells the common Israelite to take care of those who cannot care for themselves—the poor and the enslaved.

But what was truly unique for Israel was the covenant. Other nations based their laws on external conformity. Israel's Levitical law was based on internal compliance (). The common Israelite was expected to treat people as persons, not as possessions. Persons with disabilities were to find refuge in Israel as they would have no place else. Other nations believed only the king was made in the image of the god. But in Israel, all people—no matter their physical, intellectual, or social stature—were viewed as God’s image-bearers. Being made in God’s image meant that all people had worth, value, and dignity. The Levitical laws protected and prospered all people. In Israel, hurting, needy people would feel right at home.

MIRIAM A Life Spared

MOSES OWED HIS LIFE to five women: Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives who refused to kill the male Hebrew babies; Jochebed, his mother, who wove the basket and risked her life to conceal her baby boy; Miriam, his sister, who watched over him as he drifted on the Nile; and Pharaoh’s daughter, who defied her father and raised Moses as her own.

Miriam helped save her brother’s life, and her quick action allowed Moses precious time with his mother and the Hebrew people before he was weaned (). She grew to become a leader, and God considered her instrumental to the Israelites’ gaining their freedom ().

Even though they spent many years apart, Moses, Aaron, and Miriam appear to have established a close bond. But Moses’ marriage to a Cushite caused tension in their familial relationship, and the siblings began to criticize Moses. Sometimes the most hurtful and severe wounds come from those we love the most. The tongue can be such a destructive device in families, organizations, and churches ().

The tongue can be a destructive device in families, organizations, and churches

God intervened on Moses’ behalf, saying the criticism was unfounded and striking Miriam with leprosy (). Many believe Miriam convinced Aaron to join her in grumbling about Moses’ wife. This may have been why she alone was stricken. As a leader, it must have been very difficult for Miriam to be ostracized as “unclean.” Yet in answer to Moses’ prayer, God mercifully restored Miriam’s health so she could once again help lead the Israelites until her death (). Her disciplinary experience, however, became a warning to future generations ().

We are often too quick to criticize the motives and actions of family members and leaders. Our tongues become weapons against those who fail to meet our expectations. This doesn’t mean that we can’t ask honest questions and offer helpful suggestions. However, we need to humbly respect those we love and those in authority. Our comments toward them should be the kind that build others up rather than hinder their spiritual and physical lives ().

CALEB A Man of Courage

HAVE YOU EVER FELT MOCKED, laughed at, and ignored? If so, you’ll relate to Caleb.

When Moses sent out twelve spies to explore the land of Canaan, ten of them returned with bad news. They reported that the people in the land were too large and powerful for the Hebrews to conquer—even if the land had been promised to them (). But Caleb, along with Joshua, took the opposite stance. His courage didn’t go unnoticed by the Lord, who made him a promise: “But my servant Caleb has a different attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land” ().

Caleb tried to motivate the people, telling them: “Let’s go at once to take the land. . . . We can certainly conquer it!” (). He pleaded that the Lord would surely keep them safe (), but the rebellious majority won the day. They even tried to stone Caleb and Joshua for their dissenting opinion until the Lord intervened ().

While others focused on the “giants” in the land, Caleb stuck with the promise that God would provide his people with this “rich land flowing with milk and honey” (). Caleb’s character showed a “different attitude” ().

Courage doesn’t go unnoticed by the Lord

It is easy to be driven by what people think or what others say about us. It’s much harder to stand firm on God’s promises when we’re in the minority and circumstances don’t add up. Like Caleb, we must examine our attitudes to see if our courage holds in a world that rejects our Savior and us for believing in him (; ).

In the end, the faithful suffered for the faithlessness of others. Caleb and Joshua wandered in the wilderness for almost forty years. Yet Caleb’s steadfast commitment to God during that time only adds to his enduring testimony. What joy Caleb must have felt when God’s promises were eventually fulfilled and Moses instructed the Israelites to take the land.

BALAAM A Prophet’s Greed

PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC PAIN and long-term illnesses can be vulnerable to various dubious healing remedies claiming to alleviate pain and suffering. These treatments rarely live up to their promises, and they typically share one common factor—they’re costly.

Balaam was a kind of wizard whose talents were for sale. His name means “devourer, one who swallows up, glutton.” For a fee, Balaam performed for any religious or political entity. The greed that consumed him was idolatry (; ; ). His lust for treasure warped his heart and led him to great evil (; ).

Greed flows through our psyche like blood through our veins

While Balaam possessed genuine magical powers, like the magicians in Egypt (), he was not a prophet of God, nor did he serve the one true God. But his oracles in were prophetic words of divine truth. King Balak recognized this and said: “I know that blessings fall on any people you bless, and curses fall on people you curse” (). This is why Balak asked Balaam to curse the Israelites. However, the Lord prevented Balaam from speaking this evil curse. Instead, he pronounced blessings upon God’s people and therefore lost his promise of rich rewards from Balak ().

It has been said that greed flows through our psyche like blood through our veins. It is lurking, waiting to pounce and devour. Greed has many facets: lust for money or material things, lust for a better life, or lust for a life without illness or disability—a “normal” existence. We refuse to see the danger of continually looking beyond the sufficiency of our Lord and his will for us. Our relationship with the Lord is not deepened by magical formulas. It grows through living by an abiding faith during days of hardship, burning pain, limited ability, being minimized and overlooked. It’s found in giving one more day to care for a hurting loved one.

JOSHUA Commissioned to Lead

A CHANGE IN LEADERSHIP can be a difficult time for any organization or church. Imagine the tremendous responsibility that fell on the shoulders of Joshua. Often, a powerful visionary leader will die before his vision is fulfilled. So it was with Moses. His vision of leading the people of God into the Promised Land was not to be. Due to his failure to follow the Lord’s instructions—striking the rock twice instead of speaking to it ()—Moses was instructed to bestow that privilege on to Joshua (). Joshua was a worthy heir, with both God and Moses acknowledging his leadership capabilities (; ; ; ).

Leadership may change or fail, but God’s promises do not

He was originally named “Hoshea” (“salvation”) but Moses renamed him “Joshua” (“Yahweh saves,” ). He was Moses’ handpicked successor (). Joshua was a military leader during the battle with the Amalekites, and he accompanied Moses up Mount Sinai to receive the law (; ). He was chosen to represent his tribe of Ephraim as one of the twelve spies sent out to survey the Promised Land. He and Caleb were the two who stood strong against the majority report that rejected going up and taking the land (). When everyone around him cried out in disbelief and fear, Joshua stood firm in his loyalty to Moses’ leadership and in his faith in God’s promises.

The years at Moses’ side observing his encounters with the Lord taught Joshua that while leadership may change or fail, biblical principles and promises do not. If our Moses dies or is no longer able to provide leadership, will we trust God to provide a Joshua to continue to lead and guide our lives, organizations, or churches? In our pain, suffering, or disability, we can be prone to lean too heavily on powerful, charismatic leaders and might even give up hope if something happens to them. We must remember that circumstances change and people change—or even die. But God does not change (). Our trust must be in the greater Joshua, Yeshua, Jesus Christ our Lord. He will never fail, never leave us, and never allow the enemy to overtake us (; ).

THE ISRAELITES God's Chosen People

IN DEUTERONOMY, GOD REMINDED his chosen people that he still loved them—even after many years of difficulty, rebellion, and suffering. For the Israelites, their lives had been defined by difficulty for forty years. Sometimes when we walk in a dark wilderness of suffering, we forget what we learned in the light before life was hard.

Whether we have lived with suffering for a long time or only for a brief season, we need to remember the goodness and promises of God. Our heavenly Father so loves his children that he often reminds us of the blessings we have through him. It’s easy to understand how the Israelites might have questioned God’s goodness after so many years of hardship. Their parents and grandparents had been slaves in Egypt when God chose to deliver them from bondage with mighty signs and wonders. He dramatically rescued them from the army of Pharaoh and provided for their every need. But time and time again, the Israelites demonstrated that they were taking his gracious provision for granted.

We are given a choice about whether or not we will trust God

How much we are like the Israelites. God redeems us and provides for us; yet we can become obstinate when life continues to be difficult. In Deuteronomy, God is saying in effect, “Yes, the journey can be difficult, but the promises I have made for you are sure. I will bring you home into a land flowing with milk and honey” (see also ). The phrase “flowing with milk and honey” was a metaphor for everything good and desirable.

We, too, are given a choice about whether or not we will trust God. When our journey includes suffering and the days are hard, will we continue to believe that God will lead us to the “promised land” of fellowship with him in heaven? There may be days when we feel like giving up and placing our trust in someone or something else. But God continues to demonstrate his love and keep his promises, just as he did for the Israelites.

CHUCK COLSON A Prisoner Redeemed

UNTIL THE AGE OF 42, Chuck Colson was a man driven by success, willing to do almost anything to achieve his goals. He served in the military, built a career as a respected lawyer, and rose to power as a special counsel to the president of the United States under Richard Nixon. But like all of us, Colson was a broken and sinful man.

Colson was indicted for his part in the infamous Watergate political scandal. While awaiting trial in 1974, a friend gave him a copy of Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis. When Colson accepted Christ, his conversion was ridiculed by major American newspapers and magazines as a ploy for a light prison sentence. After his release in 1975, he continued to live as a changed man, founding Prison Fellowship, the largest outreach to incarcerated people throughout the world. Chuck Colson spent the remainder of his life as a humble servant of Christ, helping prisoners and advocating for the weak and marginalized wherever he found them.

When God changes our hearts, we are able to love him and then live so that future generations are impacted

Colson not only provided a powerful example of life change but also of living out one’s faith in Christ. When we recognize our weaknesses and begin to rely on Christ’s strength instead of our own, God can redeem our past in ways we could never imagine. God assures us that he wants to use every part of our lives, especially our weaknesses, for his glory (). When God changes our hearts we are able to love him and then live so that future generations are impacted ().

Colson was quick to point out that he learned much more through his suffering than through his earthly successes. In fact, he often acknowledged that he learned some of life’s most important lessons from his grandson Max, who lives with autism. Max helped his grandfather become more humble, more trusting in the goodness of God to save. The final years of Colson’s life, as a child of God, serving and loving his Savior, were a testament to God’s redeeming grace.

RAHAB Taking a Chance on God

WHEN FIRST ENCOUNTERING someone with an obvious disability, it’s easy to make assumptions about the person’s limitations. Perhaps we lack the faith to consider that they are uniquely gifted and have something special to offer. But we also need to realize that people with disabilities often doubt their own abilities to make friends and serve others.

While Rahab did not have a disability, she probably didn’t see herself as being of any value or use to Israel’s God because she had several strikes against her: She was a single woman in a male-dominated culture, worked as a prostitute, and was a despised Canaanite. Rahab’s mind must have been racing when two Israelite spies came knocking on her door. What to do? Who to trust? Risking her life and her family’s lives as well, Rahab took a chance on God.

Although our life experiences may vary, God wants to use each of us

Rahab acted with courage when she protected the Israelite spies, who were sent to scope out Jericho, and helped them escape the city unharmed. This act expressed faith in the Hebrews’ God. She could not have known then that taking such a risk would play a significant role in God’s plans for Israel and serve as a great encouragement for his people. Rahab exemplified faith in action (; ). As a result, her family was saved, she was honored by Joshua, and she became part of the lineage of Jesus ().

Just as Rahab was reconciled to God and was welcomed into the Hebrew community, people with disabilities must be welcomed into and connected to today’s church. Disabilities occur in every age group, class, race, and culture. Whatever the disability or label, people often experience a profound sense of devaluation and wounding that can be reinforced by societal attitudes. We may unknowingly create obstacles for people based not on their functional limitations but rather on society’s response to them. It must not be so in the church! We share a common story as people created in God’s image, and although our life experiences may vary, God wants to use each of us.

JOSHUA Unwavering Trust

JOSHUA BECAME AN EXEMPLARY LEADER. As Moses’ second-in-command, he was an intimate observer of Moses’ trust in God over several decades together. But now he faced the daunting task of leading the people of Israel in their conquest of the land of Canaan.

Joshua must have experienced some fear and uncertainty in his new leadership role, especially when God’s instructions were very unusual or even illogical. No military leader would lead his troops across the Jordan River when it was in flood stage, or march them around Jericho blowing trumpets and expect the city walls to simply collapse. These were not sound battle plans! Joshua probably wondered how Israel’s army would react to such seemingly crazy strategies. Joshua may have thought, These fighting men will scoff if I give them such strange orders.

However, Joshua was absolutely sure of one thing—he was not alone. God would not fail him. Joshua had meditated on the Book of the Law () and had faith in God’s command: “be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (). And, as a visible reminder of God’s presence, the Ark of the Covenant was to be carried by the priests as they led the way across the Jordan River and marched around Jericho (; ). The Lord’s battle plans proved to be perfect in each situation and brought victorious results.

God’s plans always prove to be perfect

God’s promises to Joshua apply to us today. The Lord will never leave us or forsake us! We can trust him even when his plan doesn’t make sense to us and the journey gets strenuous.

Many individuals and families affected by disability struggle with loneliness and discouragement. They feel cut off from family, friends, and even the church. Some find it difficult to trust God, wondering how twisted limbs, sensory disorders, or broken relationships can ever fit into his plans for them. David acknowledged these fears and tells how he faced them in : “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” We, too, can be strong and courageous with God by our side.

ELIOT An Unexpected Leader

MOST PEOPLE THINK OF A “MODERN LEADER” as a person who is brave, smart, and charismatic. But this is not always the case. Take Eliot, for example. Eliot is a powerful and inspirational worship leader in West Africa. His love for the Lord is obvious, and he leads his congregation into deep and meaningful times of worship.

When Eliot was only ten years old, he knew that the same strength and courage God had offered Joshua () was available to him as well—despite the fact that Eliot has cerebral palsy (CP), which limits his voluntary muscle control and results in awkward movements of his arms and legs. He uses a walker for stability and can’t speak because speech therapy wasn’t available when he was younger. But these facts do not make him different from many others with CP.

God always understands the language of the heart

What sets Eliot apart is his willingness to wholeheartedly seek God and allow the Holy Spirit to move in and through him. Instead of letting his disability disqualify him from leading worship, Eliot puts it on full display. He can’t use recognizable words to sing or pray, but Eliot enthusiastically volunteers to intercede. While his form of communication is understood by some and not others, his expression of love for God is evident through the way he draws others into worship—God always understands the language of the heart. When Eliot leads worship, there is a greater sense of God’s presence and pleasure. Eliot believes that he is loved by God—just as he is—and he uses his gifts to lead others to the throne of grace.

What makes leaders like Moses, Joshua, or Eliot powerful? A willingness to take God at his Word and respond as Isaiah did, “Here I am. Send me” (). Even though we may not fully understand the purposes that God has for us, we can praise him for who he is, surrender ourselves to the work of his Holy Spirit, and place our unconditional trust in him.

GIDEON Reluctant Hero

IN DESCRIBING HIMSELF, Gideon said, “My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!” (). But the angel of the Lord called Gideon a “mighty hero” ()—the reluctant kind that God could use to rescue Israel from the formidable Midianites. Still, Gideon had doubts: “If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about?” (). He even asked to be shown several signs, and God patiently responded to each request. The dangerous risks Gideon took to follow God could have cost him his life. Instead, his obedience bolstered his faith and convinced others to follow him. Their battle cry became, “A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!” ().

Reluctant obedience can lead to bold faith

Gideon assembled an army of 32,000 men. But God said that was too many soldiers: “If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength” (). So God whittled the army down to 300 who went to battle against a vast army riding too many camels to count. God gave them a great victory. Gideon’s obedience led the way for the nation to be freed from the suffering and oppression they had been facing at the hands of the Midianites.

Perhaps you are faced with a fearful situation. If so, consider Gideon’s battle plan: 1) be humble in your weakness; 2) don’t be afraid to ask questions; 3) step out in obedience; and 4) take others with you. Notice that the Lord didn’t directly answer Gideon’s why question. He simply challenged a feeble farmer to become a mighty hero—for nothing is impossible with God (see ).

SAMSON An Arrogant Judge

IT HAS BEEN SAID THAT ARROGANCE STIFLES MISSION because it puts the focus on the leader rather than on that person’s call from God. Samson’s life was a perfect example of this.

Although he was blessed with godly parents, a strong body, and the advantages of being brought up as a Nazirite devoted to the Lord, Samson was a slave to his own passions—a man with no self-control. God gave him everything he needed to complete his mission of rescuing the Israelites from their enemies. But Samson relied upon himself rather than the Spirit of the Lord, and this eventually led to his undoing.

Given the ways in which Samson manipulated others, interacted with women, and killed violently, some might wonder if he had an impairment that affected his judgment. While that might have played a role in his behavior, it was Delilah’s simple act of cutting off Samson’s hair—the source of his strength—that brought this giant of a man to his knees. In his last days, Samson was a broken man—blinded, enslaved, and tortured.

Brokenness deepens our faith and leads to dependence upon the Savior

Like Samson, our suffering can, at times, be self-inflicted due to our arrogance, pride, or egotistical desires. Suffering is often the tool that God uses to carve self-sufficiency and self-dependence out of our lives. Brokenness deepens our faith and leads to dependence upon the Savior. The apostle Paul knew that nothing was quite like suffering for eradicating his selfish desires and transforming him into the image of Christ. In Philippians he declared: “I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!” ().

In spite of Samson’s many failures, he is remembered as a judge of Israel and a champion of the faith (). His suffering eventually brought him to the point where he cried out to God for the strength to bring about one final, definitive act of judgment on Israel’s enemies. God did not abandon Samson, nor will he abandon us in our suffering. God always forgives a repentant heart.

NAOMI & RUTH Journeying Home

WHEN ISRAEL’S RICH LAND OF PLENTY was ravaged by famine, Elimelech did what he thought was best for his family—moving to Moab. Then, without warning, Elimelech died, leaving his wife Naomi to raise two sons. The boys married Moabite women, and life went on. Then, suddenly, both sons died, and Naomi again felt the devastating sting of death. Everyone and everything she held dear was gone, and she faced the ultimate challenge: Would she abandon all hope and give up? or could she follow God and trust him with her future?

While names and places change, people today are often confronted with similar circumstances. Be it the death of a dream or the death of a loved one, there are times when the Lord calls his people to persevere under unimaginable hardships. Naomi chose to follow God and return to her homeland in Bethlehem, where crops were once again plentiful. Ruth chose to turn her back on the false gods of her youth and follow Naomi to an unknown land.

There are times when the Lord calls his people to persevere under unimaginable hardships

Naomi and Ruth set their course for “home” with a fresh devotion to one another and to God. Even in the midst of their grief, they moved forward. Naomi confessed her deep bitterness even as she reunited with her excited kinfolk. But God’s goodness proved to be more powerful than the bitterness Naomi felt over her losses. God not only provided for their daily needs, but also gave Ruth a new husband—a picture of redemption. Boaz provided more than a solid future for both women, and he and Ruth were blessed with a son, Obed, who grafted this family into the genealogy of Christ.

If your heart is weighed down with sorrow and you’re standing at a crossroads, there is a place for you in the Father’s house (). You’ll discover, as Ruth and Naomi did, that there is both deliverance from devastating disappointment in the here and now and pleasures in God’s presence in heaven forevermore.

HANNAH A Persistent Faith

MOTHERHOOD IS A PROFOUND AND CHERISHED BLESSING from God. Scripture affirms that it is a privilege to bear, nurture, and raise a child. Every culture in the ancient Near East saw infertility as a curse which brought unspeakable sadness and even shame to a woman who could not bear children.

As Samuel’s narrative opens, we find Hannah grieving over her barrenness. To complicate matters, Hannah’s husband, Elkanah, had another wife, Peninnah, who had given birth to several children and cruelly mocked Hannah’s childlessness (, ). This rivalry within the family caused great pain for Hannah and tension for her husband as Hannah continued to lament her unrealized dream of motherhood year after year.

Hannah is an example for all who wrestle with unrealized dreams and unanswered prayers

In her desperation, Hannah attempted to bargain with God. She prayed for a child, promising that she would “give him back” to the Lord if he would hear and answer her prayer (). Extended times of suffering and heartache can challenge our faith, and sometimes they can even make us question God’s goodness. But Hannah remained faithful, pouring out her pain before the Lord as they made their annual pilgrimage to the Tabernacle.

Hannah is an example for all who wrestle with unrealized dreams and unanswered prayers. Are we willing to continue bringing our desires back to God, trusting that he has a perfect plan for our lives even if we have to wait for an answer? God chose to answer Hannah’s prayer, and she faithfully relinquished her young son, Samuel, to a life of service in the Tabernacle as she had promised. Even that sacrificial act required tremendous trust in God. May we be persistent in our faith, proclaiming with the psalmist: “Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you” ().

JONATHAN A Man with Broken Dreams

WHILE SCRIPTURE DOES NOT GIVE THE DETAILS, Jonathan was probably a young boy when his father, Saul, became king of Israel. Even as a young man, Jonathan displayed unusual courage, tenacity, and bravery in battle. He was also known as a man of faith who trusted in the Lord God. In the face of overwhelming odds against the Philistines, Jonathan said, “Perhaps the LORD will help us, for nothing can hinder the LORD. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!” ().

What happens when your dream becomes someone else’s reality?

As the king’s son, Jonathan surely expected that he would one day succeed his father and assume extraordinary power and responsibility. After David defeated the giant Goliath, the two men developed an immediate bond (). Jonathan’s commitment to David was seen in his gifts of armor and a robe for his new friend. But David’s rise to prominence and his anointing by the prophet Samuel would ultimately end Jonathan’s dream of kingship. Even then, Jonathan’s deep faith and loyalty to David remained. When his own father attempted to kill his friend, Jonathan helped David escape and live (). The last time they spoke together, Jonathan said, “Don’t be afraid. . . . My father will never find you! You are going to be the king of Israel, and I will be next to you, as my father, Saul, is well aware” (). The two men made a pact before God (), and their friendship remained true to the end of Jonathan’s life.

When another person enjoys the successes you had been dreaming of, it requires a deep faith in God to lay down your dreams and support theirs. Have you learned to give God glory and to love the one who “wins”? In a way, what Jonathan did for David is a small picture of what Jesus did for us. Though Jesus deserved all praise, he took our punishment so that we could become children of the king and inherit all of his promises. We can trust that his dreams for us are perfect and that they will come to pass in his timing.

MEPHIBOSHETH A Rich Inheritance

IN THE ANCIENT WORLD, kings often killed off all the survivors of their opponent’s family to remove future threats to the throne. But King David was a merciful man. At the height of his power and success, David sought to show kindness to the survivors of King Saul’s family because of his deep friendship with Jonathan, Saul’s son. In God’s providence, there was one survivor, Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul. But Mephibosheth seemed like an unlikely candidate for David’s mercy.

Mephibosheth had been crippled as a child. Since people who suffered from crippling disabilities were considered worthless liabilities and non-contributors to society, Mephibosheth had good reason to be afraid and confused when he was called to David’s palace. It was no wonder that he questioned David’s offer to give him property and a place at his table, since he saw himself as equivalent to “a dead dog” ().

David’s kindness to Mephibosheth paints a vivid picture of God’s merciful love toward people with disabilities. David’s love for Jonathan extended to Mephibosheth, who rightfully deserved to inherit his family’s lands. But David went the extra mile by giving Mephibosheth servants to work the land and a home in the palace. In his quest to follow God, David rejected the stigma and shame that his culture attached to disabilities.

God loves, accepts, cares for, and watches over the most vulnerable, broken, and marginalized people

Later in his life, Mephibosheth was willing to let all his inherited property and wealth go to others, content to remain under David’s care in the palace (). His life is a beautiful demonstration of how God loves, accepts, cares for, and watches over the most vulnerable, broken, and marginalized people. God saw Mephibosheth, lifted him from his hopeless condition, and gave him peace.

Today, God continues to use those who trust in Christ to care for people in their brokenness and need around the globe. Like Mephibosheth, we’re all part of the family, and we all have a place at the table.

TAMAR Moving from Desolation to Restoration

DESOLATE. BEREFT. Tamar’s half brother Amnon lied and schemed to get her alone. He raped her, and then he cast her out. Tamar loudly expressed her grief, but King David couldn’t face the sordid truth and seemingly did nothing to punish Amnon or care for Tamar.

Sadly, as tragic as Tamar’s story is, she’s not alone. Because many instances of sexual abuse and assault go unreported, statistics do not adequately represent the quantity of such cases. The numbers are sobering in the general population, but research has shown that those with disabilities are even more likely to be victims of violence or rape and are less likely to obtain police intervention, legal protection, or preventive care.

Just as Amnon used his position and power to isolate and rape Tamar, abusers of people with disabilities are often stronger and have greater social prestige than their victims. Sometimes the abuse continues for years.

Safety protocols and education can be helpful in preventing some cases, but once an act of abuse comes to light, it must be addressed. Unfortunately, the church is not immune to these kinds of crises. charges us: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.” This can be especially critical in regard to abuse among individuals with developmental disabilities, as many times the victim cannot adequately understand or vocalize the seriousness of what has occurred.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and see that they get justice

Most of all, the victim of sexual assault needs to be assured of his or her innate worth and value. Making counseling available to the victim, both immediately following the event and going forward, is critical as changing circumstances can trigger additional counseling needs. Then take steps to protect the individual from future assaults.

With adequate support and care, a person who has experienced the broken trust and personal violation of sexual abuse can be restored to a place of knowing his or her identity as a treasured child of the heavenly Father.

SOLOMON A Wise Decision

FOR KING SOLOMON, THE UNUSUAL CASE of two women fighting over one child was a test of his godly wisdom. Unlike his earlier conversation with God (), this encounter was no dream. For the mothers, it was a brutal contest of raw human emotion.

On one level, this drama of two illegitimate sons born in prostitution with absentee fathers was a scene straight out of a modern reality television show. On another level, the courtroom drama captured the grief and pain of a mother who had lost a child prematurely. Imagine her feelings of injustice and jealousy as she reasoned, “Why should this mother be allowed to keep her child and I lose mine?” But her desperate attempt at a replacement was born more out of pain than rational planning. The death of a child can drive anyone to extremes.

God’s gracious gift of wisdom to Solomon was a gift for the people

The child’s real mother became the victim of a crime—the attempted theft of her baby. Naturally, she fought to keep her son. This emotional whirlwind took a violent turn when the king proposed splitting the child in half with a sword. The compassionate response of the honest woman reunited her with her child, while the dishonest woman was left with nothing but painful memories.

We could marvel at how brilliant King Solomon was to come up with such a bold solution. But that would overlook God’s gracious gift of wisdom, which served as a gift for the people that he served as king. That day he passed the test in the eyes of his people and became truly trusted as a person who would operate the highest “court of appeals” in the land with true wisdom. Solomon’s wisdom cut through the painful realities that both mothers were facing and provided exactly the right answer to the dilemma. If you pass through times of testing, especially when others seem inexplicably to fare better than you, remember that God alone is able to give you wisdom to live in the midst of that tension.

ELIJAH Two Miracles

ASKING OTHERS FOR HELP IS HUMBLING and can be life-changing for everyone involved. If the person you ask has little available to give, your request may seem selfish or insensitive. But what if God told you to ask that person for assistance?

Elijah had a word from God directing him to go to Zarephath, where he would meet an impoverished widow and single mother who had no way of knowing that God was about to set in motion a miracle—one that would not only provide for her needs, but also impact her faith forever. This story plays out in three acts.

Act One. Elijah instructed the widow to use her meager supplies of flour and cooking oil to bake some bread to feed him first, then her and her son. Elijah acted with God’s assurance that there would be enough food from that day until the new rains and crops arrived (). The widow followed the prophet’s instructions, and there was just enough flour and oil to meet their daily needs. The promise of God was fulfilled.

Act Two. When the widow’s son became sick and died, the desperate woman turned to Elijah for help. He carried the child to his own room, where he prayed. Elijah’s first prayer was a complaint: “Why bring this tragedy on a poor woman who is simply struggling to stay alive? How can this be fair?” His second prayer was a request: “Give back the child’s life.” And God did.

Miracles can result when we trust and obey

Act Three. The grieving mother was given back a healthy, living son. The woman’s response went beyond simple joy or relief—she acknowledged the activity of God in the life and words of his prophet.

Elijah was obedient, willing to trust God and humble himself to ask for help, even when it made no sense. The result? An abundant provision came through an unlikely source, and a struggling woman’s faith was strengthened.

NABOTH A Victim of the Powerful

MANY OF US GREW UP HEARING: “Life’s unfair, so get used to it!” But when we see the success of unrighteous and unscrupulous people—especially if we’ve fallen victim—we yearn for justice! The good news is that God is fair and just, and he assures us that he stands on the side of the victim. Naboth was one such person.

Naboth owned a vineyard that would serve well as a vegetable garden for the palace. Ahab saw the garden plot as something to add to his estate. But for Naboth it represented his inheritance from generations past. He refused the king’s offer of a new vineyard.

Like a spoiled child, Ahab took to bed in a huff and refused to eat. His wife, Jezebel, thought her husband’s actions were absurd and was enraged by this commoner’s defiance. Taking matters into her own hands, Jezebel determined to obtain the vineyard by setting a devious trap. She ordered others to falsely accuse Naboth of cursing God and the king. The plot worked, and the vineyard quickly became Ahab’s. Evil had won the day—or so it seemed.

God is fair and just, and he stands on the side of helpless victims

The powerful monarchy crushed the innocent commoner. Greed and pride brought immeasurable suffering and pain to a man who simply tried to stand for what was rightfully his. But God did not let this injustice, murder, and robbery go unnoticed. Elijah was sent to inform King Ahab that his dynasty would be brought to an end because of the sins against Naboth.

We struggle to understand why God chose not to intervene to save Naboth, because that’s the way we would have written the story. But his ways are not our ways () and there are times when we simply won’t see how justice is meted out. Whenever we see injustice, God calls us to stand for what is right—especially in situations affecting people with disabilities. They often encounter ill-informed decision-makers in education, medicine, and government who are motivated by politics, money, or convenience. Consider how God might want to use you to speak up when life isn’t fair. The results are in his hands, and his justice will prevail in the end.

NAAMAN Healing of the Heart

LEPROSY WAS A CHRONIC, INFECTIOUS DISEASE that caused much suffering in biblical times. It was no respecter of persons, affecting even mighty warriors such as Naaman (). This devastating condition often resulted in permanent disfigurement and social isolation. People with leprosy were feared and sent to live as outcasts beyond the city walls with other lepers. Their social group was defined by their disability, and they were ostracized even by their families.

Fortunately, the king of Aram admired Naaman for the many battles he had led and won. When a young slave girl from Israel suggested that one of God’s prophets in Samaria could heal people, the king told Naaman to make the journey, sending gifts of gold and silver to the prophet.

God wanted something more for Naaman than just physical healing

At first, Naaman was insulted when Elisha sent him a message to go wash in the river. Certainly a man of his status would meet the prophet face to face, but Elisha had a different protocol. While Naaman knew how armies worked, he knew nothing about the ways of God and his prophets. The commander had to learn: to disengage from his own agenda and relinquish control. Naaman’s personal and professional success didn’t mean he was qualified in spiritual matters (the same is true for us). God wanted to give Naaman something greater than physical healing. What good was it for him to be physically whole while retaining his sinfulness and negative attitude?

God did something bigger in Naaman’s life. The commander’s eye was on immediate, measurable results. He focused on the outcome. The prophet’s eye was on the process, knowing the outcome would follow. When Naaman meticulously adhered to Elisha’s instructions, he experienced the miracle of physical healing. The leprosy and all of its associated physical, social, religious, and psychological suffering disappeared. Yet the greatest outcome was that this pagan commander’s heart was changed. He honored God in two ways: First, he declared God’s supremacy; second, he honored God by living a changed life. Naaman’s experience with God was not momentary; it was monumental.

THE WOMAN OF SHUNEM 

A Woman of Faith

ANY PARENT who has ever rushed a critically-ill child to an emergency room can relate to the woman of Shunem. A child gasps for breath, seizes with convulsions, or screams out in pain and parents race into action, grabbing car keys, medicines or portable oxygen, and praying without ceasing until an ER physician finally utters those beautiful words: “Your child is going to be okay.”

These learned behaviors of faith in action grow over time, becoming second nature for many parents whose children struggle with challenging health issues and disability. For the woman of Shunem, the events leading up to her son’s healing began years before, when she and her husband offered their hospitality to the prophet Elisha (). They not only provided meals for him but also built a room so he could stay at their house whenever he was in town (). Elisha received their kindness with gratefulness and wanted to do something for them in return ().

Your child is going to be okay

Upon discovering that the woman was childless, he immediately recognized the shameful stigma she faced in that society and promised her a son. Though she was afraid even to hope for such a thing, within the year she gave birth to the promised child (). As he grew older, he worked with his father in the fields.

One day he took ill and died in his mother’s lap (). This woman of faith took swift action. She placed the dead child in Elisha’s room and prepared to travel to Mount Carmel, assuring her husband of a good outcome. On finding Elisha, she threw herself down before him, insisting he go to the boy (). After Elisha spent some time in prayer with the child, the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes (). All was well, just as the woman had believed (). In her time of testing and trouble, she found extraordinary strength to trust the Lord.

HEZEKIAH A King Learns Humility

THERE WAS NO ONE LIKE HEZEKIAH among all the kings of Judah. He pleased God immensely, even going so far as to remove the pagan shrines. He remained faithful to God in everything. God was with him, and Hezekiah experienced success in his endeavors.

But even in success, Hezekiah faced threats, intimidation, and false accusations. Sennacherib, king of Assyria, prowled the land and conquered the towns of Judah (). In a moment of weakness, Hezekiah sought to appease this hostile king (). But Sennacherib sent devious messages undermining Hezekiah in the eyes of his people ().

Hezekiah’s immediate response was to seek God’s help by asking for assistance, admitting weakness, and pleading for rescue (, ). He interceded for the people and took the lead spiritually, committing himself to the Lord’s power to win the battle. God answered through the prophet Isaiah, and deliverance soon followed. Hezekiah experienced deliverance as a result of his humility before God.

Later, Hezekiah became very ill and was bedridden. This time, Isaiah’s visit did not bring encouragement. The prophet told Hezekiah that he should set his affairs in order ().

Hezekiah prayed, reminding God of his faithful service. He reaffirmed his trust and authentic devotion to the Lord. Meanwhile, while leaving the palace, Isaiah received a fresh message. God heard Hezekiah’s heart and promised him 15 more years ().

Healing is of no value unless it comes with humility

Shortly after this, envoys from the king of Babylon arrived with best wishes and a gift. With new life surging in his veins, the king celebrated by pridefully showing off all he owned. In response, Isaiah delivered the Lord’s verdict: Everything Hezekiah had shown his visitors would be taken away by the Babylonians ().

While Hezekiah’s humility allowed him to govern his people in a way that pleased God, his desire to be great in the eyes of the visiting Babylonians led to the utter destruction of his kingdom. Hezekiah took God’s gift of restored health but neglected to remember God’s mercy. Healing is of no value unless it comes with ongoing humility.

ASAPH The Sacrifice of Praise

AFTER THE ARK OF THE COVENANT was brought to Jerusalem (), David appointed some of the Levites to a special calling. They would be responsible to make petitions, give thanks, and praise the Lord. Of these Levites, Asaph was the chief (). Not only did he lead singing and sound the cymbals, he set up a music school ().

Unlike the lion-killer Benaiah (), Asaph was not a “mighty man” kind of guy. In the twelve psalms Asaph wrote, he made it clear that he suffered all day: “every morning brings me pain” (). He envied those whose bodies were “healthy and strong” (). He had firsthand knowledge of how oppressive and grievous suffering could be (, ; ). Yet God used Asaph despite his battles with doubt, fear, loneliness, and depression. In fact, when he performed his assigned sacred duty in the sanctuary (), God took Asaph by the hand, guided him, and assured him of his glorious eternal destiny.

God uses those who struggle to accomplish his great purposes

Yes, God can use lion-killers to accomplish amazing things. But God also uses those who know hardship, confusion, and suffering. All that Asaph struggled with is not specifically identified in Scripture, but we know that it was serious and presented him with a chronic condition that caused him great spiritual conflict at least twice during his ministry (; ).

It is amazing to see how God honors and uses people who are as different as Benaiah and Asaph to accomplish his great purposes! How might the Lord use you today, even in your struggles and uncertainties?

NATHAN A Mistaken Prophet

NATHAN WAS A BOLD AND COURAGEOUS PROPHET. After David’s adultery with Bathsheba and the conspiracy to kill her husband, Nathan boldly denounced David’s sins by telling him a parable about a wicked man () and saying to David, “You are that man!” (). While that took great courage, it wasn’t Nathan’s first go-around with the king.

In , we find a previous encounter between King David and Nathan over the Ark of the Covenant. David said, “Look, . . . I am living in a beautiful cedar palace, but the Ark of the LORD’s Covenant is out there under a tent!” (). Nathan responded with his own advice, instead of seeking guidance from the Lord: “Do whatever you have in mind, for God is with you” (). Remember, this was not merely a chat between friends. The king had specifically summoned the prophet, counting on his wise counsel.

It takes great strength to acknowledge your own errors

Later that night, God spoke to Nathan, “Go and tell my servant David . . . ‘You are not the one to build a house for me to live in. . . . I will raise up one of your descendants. . . . He is the one who will build a house—a temple—for me” (, ). Upon learning that his original counsel did not align with God’s will, Nathan immediately went back to David and corrected himself. He did not equivocate or try to qualify his earlier statement. He simply told David precisely what the Lord had instructed him to share.

Now that took courage! Many people have the courage to confront others with their mistakes, but it takes even greater strength to acknowledge one’s own. Perhaps one of the reasons God blessed Nathan’s ministry was that he was as quick to fix his own errors as he was to point out the errors of others. It is wise to take regular inventory of your own words. Is there a mistake you need to correct to keep your witness for God pure and strong? Do it today!

HENRY MOORHOUSE 

A Preacher’s Greatest Lesson

THERE WAS A TIME when Henry Moorhouse’s name was familiar to countless Christians in Great Britain and the United States. Born in Manchester, England, in 1840, Moorhouse was a poor young man from a poor family. The Victorian era offered many opportunities to get into trouble. During his first twenty years of life, he was in and out of jail. At one point, he enlisted in the army in order to try to make something of himself. After becoming a Christian at the age of 21, Henry quickly became one of the most prominent evangelical preachers in England. In 1867, at the age of 27, he visited the United States and preached in Dwight Moody’s church on seven consecutive evenings. This one week of preaching had a profound effect upon Moody. In fact, Moorhouse is credited by many with having taught Moody how to preach the gospel from the Scriptures.

What initially seemed to be a cause for great sorrow became a source of tremendous blessing

There was someone, however, who taught Henry Moorhouse an equally important lesson—one that made him an effective preacher on the love of God. It was his own daughter, who was born with paralysis. What initially seemed to be a cause for great sorrow became a source of tremendous blessing, Moorhouse later wrote. He credited her for transforming him into a different—and better—person. He spoke more softly and controlled his temper; his habits and lifestyle had been radically changed forever.

Moorhouse shared his testimony of how a paralyzed child changed his life in a small tract titled “Sorrow Sanctified.” And the sanctification that God accomplished in him never wore off. Henry was only forty years old when he died in 1880, but his ministry of proclaiming God’s love carried through to the very end. According to one of his friends, Moorhouse’s final words—addressed to his beloved daughter as he lay on his deathbed—were simple but profound: “God is love.”

ASA The Dangers of Self-reliance

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED how someone could go from having complete trust in God to neglecting him altogether? King Asa’s story shows such a transition and helps us understand how even people of great faith can fall into worldly thinking.

Early in his reign, King Asa sought to please God by leading the Israelites to repent and turn from false idols. He experienced God’s blessing and protection for many years as a result. When Asa faced a vast army from Ethiopia, he recognized that God was his only hope and completely trusted in the Lord for the victory (). But years later, when Asa was battling for his life because of a severe foot disease, he put his trust entirely in human physicians (). In both of these situations, the text emphasizes the overwhelming or severe nature of the problem Asa faced and the exclusive object of his hope. What caused Asa to waver in his allegiance to God?

God wants to strengthen those who are fully committed to him

The answer is found in Asa’s response to a relatively minor threat. After many years of peace, King Baasha of Israel invaded Judah. Instead of calling out to God for help and wisdom, Asa began to strategize and explore diplomatic options (). Although Asa’s human strategy worked and King Baasha withdrew his army, God sent a prophet named Hanani to confront Asa. Hanani chided the king for his foolish actions, “The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (). Rather than humbly responding to God’s corrective message, Asa reacted in bitterness and turned further away from God. Later, when he suffered from his foot disease, he refused God completely.

King Asa, who had once been eager to trust God, started to trust in his own abilities and in others who held positions of power. Self-reliance and pride had crept in, displacing his faith in the Almighty God. No matter what troubles we face, whether big or small, let us continue to put our trust in God alone. He is always watching over us ().

JEHOSHAPHAT A Powerful Choir

DIETRICH BONHOEFFER ONCE SAID that in times of care and sorrow, music will keep a fountain of joy alive in us. David must have experienced the great power of music to encourage the soul as he hid in a cave from King Saul, who sought to kill him. He wrote: “My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises!” ().

King Jehoshaphat was terrified when he learned that surrounding armies were headed to attack Judah. He called on the people to pray and fast and seek the Lord’s guidance. God assured them through a prophet that they need not be afraid or discouraged because he was with them and the battle was his ().

Victory can be ours for a song

When it was time to face off and the fighting men stood armed and ready, Jehoshaphat appointed a choir of singers to lead them into battle (). Their voices rang out in praise, proclaiming God’s love and faithfulness before a single enemy had been slain! They didn’t know that the Lord would cause the enemy armies to turn on each other “at the very moment they began to sing and give praise” (). They had secured the victory by lifting their voices in confident praise—the mighty warriors didn’t even lift a hand!

Satan also knows the power of godly praise and worship. He is in a battle for our minds and watches closely how we choose to respond to our circumstances. When we respond in faith, trusting and praising God regardless of our situation, we have victory over our enemy. Victory can be ours for a song.

MIKE KING The Gift of Encouragement

AT THE AGE OF TWENTY, Mike King had it all! He was a man’s man: strong, athletic, and handsome. Until one life-changing day when a car pulled out in front of his motorcycle and CRASH!—Mike was left paralyzed, broken, and angry. He’d always been active in all kinds of sports and enjoyed meeting challenges head-on. But paralysis was a different story. Unable to walk, Mike struggled to find his life’s purpose.

Then a few years later, by coincidence—or divine appointment—Mike heard about two wheelchair athletes who traversed the continental United States in their chairs. The idea aroused his competitive nature and prompted him to do one better—he set a wild goal to push his wheelchair from Fairbanks, Alaska, to Washington, D.C.

Fortified with his usual determination, Mike started out with his eye on the prize. He thought he had trained enough, but the long hours of wear on his hands and arms quickly brought discouragement. He wasn’t able to go as fast as he’d planned, and the 5,600-mile trip seemed to be too much for his 120-day plan. Mike wondered if the naysayers had been right in warning him that the task was too big, too unrealistic.

Encouragement can come from some unlikely sources

But Mike gained encouragement from an unlikely source. A group of high school students surrounded him on their bicycles, asking questions as they rode along. This kept Mike occupied and, unlike before, he was able to travel sixty miles that day. From then on, Mike continued to benefit from the company of others, as he pushed mile after mile, all the way to the steps of the United States Capitol.

The experience changed Mike’s outlook and eventually his life. Realizing that the key to his success came in the camaraderie and encouragement received from others, Mike determined to support other people. Today his organization, Powered to Move, teaches adaptive sports and empowers fledgling wheelchair athletes. Mike also travels around the world, sharing the hope of Jesus Christ with hurting people who have lost their ability to walk. Mike embodies the spirit of —the importance of rebuilding in the company of encouragers.

EZRA The Praying Scribe

EZRA WAS A MAN WHO clearly deserved respect. A direct descendant of Aaron, Moses’ brother, he came from a long line of priests who were duty-bound to know God’s law. Ezra was skilled, “well versed” (), and gifted in teaching God’s law to the Israelites. As a scribe, he gave serious attention to detail and was proficient in both reading and writing.

When King Artaxerxes searched for a knowledgeable leader to reestablish proper worship of the Hebrew God, Ezra’s name rose to the top of the list. His overwhelming task was not only to manage the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the Temple but also—and more importantly—to address the suffering resulting from the people’s spiritual apathy. The king of Persia gave him full authority to punish and enforce laws, but Ezra resisted the temptation to abuse this power. Instead, his life was a godly witness to the people.

Ezra believed big things of God. On the treacherous journey from Persia to Jerusalem, he trusted God to protect their caravan without the assistance of an armed escort. Recognizing one shouldn’t put God to the test, he humbled himself and the entire group by calling for a time of prayer and fasting before starting the four-month trip.

The book of Ezra gives us a beautiful window into the prayer life of this man of God

One of the most beautiful aspects of the book of Ezra is the window into the prayer life of this man of God. In Ezra’s prayers of praise and confession (), he showed a deep love and respect for God that can only come from an intimate knowledge of God’s law. As the psalmist put it, “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” ().

In Ezra’s testimony and prayer life, we see a model for turning to God in times of fear, sorrow, repentance, and also in need.

NEHEMIAH A Heart God Uses

NEHEMIAH’S STORY BEGINS IN PERSIA, where he is serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I. Although Jewish exiles had been released in waves to return to their homeland, Nehemiah had not been released from his duties. As the book opens, God has given Nehemiah a heavy burden to help rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. But why Nehemiah?

Nehemiah was a man who knew brokenness. A lifetime of living in exile, seeing his people always under the thumb of a foreign power, had broken his heart for his people. When Nehemiah heard of the condition of the walls of Jerusalem, he wept and mourned for days. His grief was not over bricks and mortar but rather the knowledge that city walls represented the future and vitality of Jerusalem. No city wall meant no future for his people.

Nehemiah demonstrated his faith by placing his confidence in God’s promises. He had a passion for prayer and God’s Word. Out of reverence and fear of God, Nehemiah focused his petition on confessing the sins of the people and calling on God’s faithfulness (). His heart for the things of God overshadowed his fear, even risking death for approaching the king with his request to return to Jerusalem ().

Nehemiah was trustworthy. Cupbearers were among some of the most trusted of the king’s entourage, as the king relied upon their integrity to assure no one had poisoned his drink.

His broken heart became the tender heart that our Father delights in using

Nehemiah had a heart for the vulnerable and oppressed. He had compassion on the downtrodden and marginalized of society. It was not enough to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem; he desired to rebuild the lives of the poor and oppressed and to secure fairness and justice for them ().

No wonder God chose Nehemiah. Nehemiah went from being a servant of an earthly king to a servant of the King of kings by living a life of faithful prayer, devotion to God’s Word, and advocacy for the most vulnerable in society. His broken heart became the sort of tender heart that our heavenly Father delights in using.

THE RETURNED EXILES 

Better Together

HAVE YOU NOTICED how slogans can draw people together for a cause? Nike gets people to “Just Do It.” The Marines are looking for “A Few Good Men.” Even the Musketeers are “All for One, One for All.” Although Nehemiah is the central figure in the book that bears his name, the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem was not his alone. It would take the collective effort of all the returned exiles working together.

The restoration of broken lives, relationships, and dreams takes the people of God working as one

Restoring broken walls—clearing away rubble, realigning foundations, and bringing in new building materials—is never easy and cannot be done alone; it can only be done in community. records the many groups of people who joined the work in Jerusalem. Each group contributed significantly to restoring sections of the wall. It required faith, a willingness and desire to overcome apathy and the status quo, and a firm conviction that the life of a city could rise out of the ashes of ruin. It also required a willingness to take a stand for righteousness in the face of opposition. When threatened by attack, the people chose to work side by side with tools in one hand and a weapon in the other ().

Similarly, the restoration of broken lives, relationships, and dreams takes the body of Christ working as one. When people are devastated by suffering, disability, and disappointment, they need others who have faith and vision to come alongside them and help restore the “walls” of their lives. When faithful servants are overwhelmed by despair and hopelessness, they need a community that will hold them with one hand and fight in prayer for them with the other hand. They need people who know that we are better together.

XERXES Uncontrolled Passions

KING XERXES WANTED TO PROVE that he was the most powerful man in the world. For six months he brought in military officers, nobles, and other government officials to celebrate his vast empire. Then he gave an even more lavish feast to show off his opulent wealth, where he decided to flaunt the beauty of his wife for all to see. But Queen Vashti refused to be put on display, making King Xerxes appear powerless within his own home.

In a fit of anger, the king had the queen deposed and launched an empire-wide beauty pageant for a new queen. Much like how the obsession with sexual gratification objectifies of women today, the king treated these young women as sexual objects and brought them to live at the palace. He had his way with each of them until he found one he liked and named her the new queen. Those who didn’t please the king were treated worse than widows. These women effectively became palace prisoners. Xerxes’ heartless behavior left behind a wake of hurting women and families.

God can use even an unpredictable despot to accomplish his purposes

King Xerxes thought nothing of the very real individuals hurt by his selfish agenda. Even Esther, the woman who ultimately gained his favor, suffered as a result of his fickle nature. When Mordecai challenged Esther to tell the king about Haman’s intent to kill the Jews, Esther was afraid, because Xerxes had not requested her presence for thirty days (). Not even the “best of the best” could satisfy Xerxes’ untamed passions.

Xerxes’ fickle despotism, however, was used by God to save God’s people. A fitful night without sleep and a random desire to hear the history of his reign revealed to Xerxes that Mordecai was a faithful ally. And God used that revelation to protect his people. Like Esther, we may not always see it, but God works today on behalf of the well-being of his people.

HAMAN AND MORDECAI 

A History of Hatred

ROYAL BLOOD COURSED THROUGH MORDECAI’S VEINS. A descendent of Kish, he came from the same family as King Saul. His ancestors had been among the royalty and noblemen first brought as captives to Babylon. Haman’s bloodline included royalty as well. He was an Agagite, a descendant of the kings of the Amalekites.

King Saul of Israel and King Agag of the Amalekites—sound familiar? First Samuel 15 tells the story of when God commanded King Saul to destroy every trace of the wicked Amalekites. Instead, King Saul saved the best of the plunder and failed to kill King Agag. Due to King Saul’s failure to fully obey God’s command, the Amalekites lived and produced a lineage fueled by hatred for the Israelites. Although centuries had passed, both men keenly remembered the long, bitter history between their ancestors.

Some conflicts have a long history behind them

However, the animosity on the part of Haman and the disrespect shown by Mordecai were not just matters of prejudice or prolonged family feuding. In the book of Esther, we see a profile of two very different prestigious men, one good and one evil. Haman used his power to gain wealth and recognition as well as to oppress those he governed. Mordecai ruled with fairness and integrity, as recorded in .

These two men characterize kingdoms that are still at odds today—the kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of light. When we face circumstances in which it seems that darkness may triumph, we need to remember God’s history of faithfulness to his people and strive to fully obey his commands.

JOB Blindsided

BLINDSIDED. In American football, this term is used most often for when the quarterback gets hit from behind while looking downfield as he’s trying to throw a pass—he never saw it coming. Often the team loses the ball, and sometimes the quarterback gets seriously injured. Being blindsided accurately describes the unexpected grief we experience in life. The awfulness of having one’s job taken without notice or reason, suffering the death of a loved one, or being given the diagnosis of cancer are only a few of the many ways we can get blindsided. In moments like these, we are apt to question the rules and The Referee of life.

Job probably wished for a referee to rule on the hit he took, but he didn’t find one (). His wealth taken and children killed, Job had done nothing to deserve what he received. The first verse of the book of Job declares that Job was a good man who lived a good life. In fact, the first two chapters explain that the why? question could be answered only in heaven. Job often called out to God only to hear the echo of his own voice. His cry in chapter 3 was the cry of every human being: What did I do to deserve this?

Undeserved suffering is a principal reason why many reject belief in God

Undeserved suffering is a principal reason why many reject belief in God. However, if Job is the oldest book in the Bible (as many scholars contend), God addressed the problem early and head-on. Of course, the fact that God dealt with the issue up front is no solace to those experiencing suffering. Here, at the onset of grief, Job knew his theology well. But he still felt the hurt, suffering, groaning, wailing, moaning, and screams of overwhelming sorrow.

At our greatest point of need, can we agree with Job that God gives and takes away? Sure. We may even be able to describe in detail our doctrine of sovereignty. But can we also have a view of God that reveals our humility as well as our humanity? We can certainly cry out to God in our suffering, but we must also acknowledge that he does not answer to us.

LARRY AND MARY WATERS  A Journey through Pain

NEUROSCIENTISTS HAVE DESCRIBED cluster headaches as the worst pain known to man. They can be so severe that they’re often referred to as the “suicide headache.” Missionary and professor Larry Waters has suffered from these debilitating headaches for over 18 years.

The pain can attack during the day, but it always attacks Larry at night. He is suddenly awakened with a painful, burning sensation in his left eye that radiates into his sinus cavity. His eye feels like it is being pushed out of his head. Clear fluid leaks from his left nostril as the left sinus cavity becomes blocked. The pressure and pain keep building. Eventually, Larry usually falls to the floor, whimpering like a lost little boy; he cries out, begging God to stop the pain.

Larry’s wife, Mary, comes quickly to try and help. She goes to the refrigerator and wraps an ice pack in a small towel. Returning, she picks up his head slowly and rests it in her lap, placing the ice on Larry’s face. She helps with his medication and waits with him for it to take effect. Mary speaks softly, and her touch means so much. Larry sees the worry and concern in her eyes. He knows that she would do almost anything to make the pain stop.

We can cherish the life God has given us, even in the face of excruciating suffering

Mary doesn’t have to wonder what Job’s wife felt as she saw her boil-ridden, suffering husband sitting on a dung pile feeling helpless. Unlike Job’s wife, who suggested to him that death might be better than this type of life (), Mary has always prayed fervently for Larry’s pain to stop and rejoiced with him when he has found periods of relief and peace.

We all hate to suffer and to see our loved ones in ongoing pain. News reports on the laws establishing one’s “right to die” urge society to accept euthanasia as common practice and even make the argument that it is a kind and merciful approach. But the book of Job makes it clear that suicide and euthanasia reflect “godless” thinking and are unacceptable ways of dealing with suffering and disability. We must choose to cherish the life God has given us, even in the face of excruciating suffering. Larry and Mary Waters make that choice daily, honoring the Lord by the way they live.

ELIPHAZ, BILDAD, AND ZOPHAR Toxic Friends

THE ORIGINAL OBJECTIVE OF JOB’S THREE FRIENDS seemed to be to offer him sympathy and comfort, but this plan was never realized (). Troubled by Job’s death wishes, they changed course in order to convince him of their wisdom. Through a series of three debates, they heaped cruel attacks upon the head of this wounded man instead of giving encouragement. They were antagonists who, knowingly or not, spoke wrongly about God ().

Eliphaz, the oldest, appealed to Job’s personal experience: “Stop and think! Do the innocent die? When have the upright been destroyed?” (). His implication was clear: Job was not an upright man, and he was reaping the evil he had sown.

Bildad, the traditionalist, quoted from the fathers and elders who also concluded that suffering was related to the sins of the sufferer (). Bildad agreed with Eliphaz and made it clear that it would be unfair of God to even allow a righteous person to suffer. He even saw Job’s declaration of innocence as an accusation that God was not just (, ).

Zophar, the sanctimonious one, based his arguments on a superior understanding of God. He accused Job of pride, describing him as being no better than dung, a bad father, and one whose vigor and appetite had been lost due to his own mistakes ().

Christians are people who offer hope to the hurting

All three friends spoke a false theology. God’s grace and love were not absent in Job’s suffering, as they had claimed. His woes were not punishment for sin. Unfortunately, this kind of toxic philosophy is still alive and well today. Individuals and families affected by disabilities often report encountering similar attitudes among their friends and in society. These false points of view can be even more painful than one’s actual disability.

Scripture’s teachings on sickness and health provide us with a balanced perspective we can draw from to offer empathy and hope for people who are suffering (see ; ; ).

FANNY CROSBY Finding Solace in Psalms

YOU MAY NOT KNOW FANNY CROSBY’S NAME, but if you grew up in church, you’ve probably sung one of the 8,000 hymns or gospel songs she penned during her lifetime. Fanny was an inspiration to many, and for much more than her prolific writing. Blinded due to an illness shortly after birth, she lived during the nineteenth century when people with disabilities had few rights and were viewed by many as unable to be educated. Thankfully, her family encouraged her love of writing, music, and memorizing Scripture. They sent her to the New York Institution for the Blind, where she graduated and later returned as an instructor. Fanny also became an advocate lobbying in support of education for the blind and was the first woman to speak in the United States Senate.

When she leaned on the Psalms, Fanny found a wellspring of inspiration

While Fanny was a brave voice for those with disabilities, as well as the poor and needy, she also experienced many hardships. Her only child, a daughter, died in her sleep at a few months of age. With a mom’s grieving heart, Fanny wrote the hymn “Safe in the Arms of Jesus.” She always found solace in the Psalms, especially those that encouraged her to hold on until the day she would see her Savior’s face. Fanny realized her physical limitations exposed her to powerful emotions which, if left unattended, could sway her faith. But when she leaned on the Psalms, Fanny found a wellspring of inspiration, as well as the foundation for many of her hymns. inspired the hymn “He Hideth My Soul”:

He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock

That shadows a dry, thirsty land;

He hideth my life in the depths of His love,

And covers me there with His hand.

Other beloved songs Fanny wrote include “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior,” “Blessed Assurance,” and “To God Be the Glory.” Even today, Fanny Crosby’s songs and poetry continue to bring comfort and hope throughout the world.

HOWARD The Cost of Denial

WHAT’S THE POINT OF FEELINGS ANYWAY? People seem to talk about their feelings either too much or too little. It’s hard to find a happy medium. Feelings can be embarrassing and even hard to control at times. But trying to avoid our feelings altogether can lead to a world of emotional problems, as Howard discovered the hard way.

Howard was a successful businessman, husband, and devoted father. In his mid-forties, he was paralyzed in a car accident. After the accident, he determined to recover quickly and not see himself as a victim. Howard’s positive, upbeat attitude impressed everyone. Soon, he was back at work, maneuvering his wheelchair through airports on business trips, not letting anything stand in his way. But Howard had a secret—he was struggling with increasing anxiety. A severe panic attack ultimately sent him to the hospital and into therapy.

Howard’s determination to overcome his life-changing accident caused him to deny his crushed spirit and his grief. His unexpressed emotions created anxiety that became too great to control. Howard’s positive attitude ended up hurting him! His “outer self” took the significant life change in stride, but his “inner self” was in deep pain.

Emotions can be God-given indicators that something needs to be addressed

Through therapy, Howard learned to accept his feelings, especially the painful ones. He learned that his anxiety was a signal that he needed to pay attention to his crushed spirit and not try to suppress his feelings. You see, sometimes emotions function just like the pain receptors in the body. Physical pain can be a gift from God to warn us that our bodies are being harmed. Similarly, our emotions can be God-given indicators that something is wrong and needs to be addressed.

Expressing and acknowledging our emotions in a healthy way can also help us to connect with God and others. Paul said, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (). We live in a world with emotional suffering, but we do not have to go through it alone.

A WISE WOMAN Active Faithfulness

BEGINS with life lessons from a mother to her son. More than simple admonitions about respect and hard work, this godly mother had the ear of the king and a burden for those he would lead. She hoped her son would be a wise king who was strong-willed, sober-minded, and just. She advised him to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. . . . Speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice” ().

Later in this chapter, we meet an ideal woman who is described as virtuous and capable and is considered more precious than rubies (). This godly wife didn’t believe in idle hands and always took notice of those in need: “She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy” (). In Bible times, many people lived in isolation and poverty, especially those with diseases and disabilities. Seeing the needs around her, this ideal woman answers the call of the psalmist: “Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people” ().

Women have often led the way in caring for the sick and dying

Historically, women have often led the way in caring for the sick and dying. Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) was a pioneer in nursing. She was drawn to help those in poverty and would not let anything interfere with her God-given call. Clara Barton (1821–1912) worked tirelessly tending wounded soldiers in the Civil War. And Dorothea Dix (1802–1887), an outspoken activist for those with emotional disabilities, was the force behind the first mental hospital.

Today women of faith are still working as professionals and volunteers in many fields, ensuring that all people are treated with the care and respect they deserve—simply because they are human beings created in the image of God. Walking the path of the woman, they’re energized by Jesus’ words: “When you did it to one of the least of these . . . you were doing it to me” ().

ISAIAH Here I Am, Send Me

WE KNOW LITTLE ABOUT THE PROPHET ISAIAH apart from the book that bears his name. He moved in elite circles, advised kings, compiled royal histories, and—most importantly—spoke the word of God without regard for personal safety (). In ancient Israel, telling a king that he was sinning was a good way to shorten one’s life expectancy! Perhaps Isaiah found the strength to speak so boldly because of the astonishing vision he had that changed his life forever ().

Several elements of Isaiah’s vision stand out with stark clarity. First, God is holy—utterly, gloriously, and dangerously holy. The Temple cannot contain God, who fills the entire earth with his glory (). Secondly, God calls his people into relationship with him, but in order to survive God’s holiness their hearts must be purified. That is why Isaiah cried out in despair that he was doomed (). But God mercifully makes his people fit for the tasks to which he calls them (). He does not overrule or overpower people. God asked, and Isaiah freely replied, “Here I am. Send me” (). The essence of obedience is committing to serve God faithfully even when the future is unknown.

God makes people fit for the tasks to which he calls them

Isaiah’s vision illustrates what it means to be called by God. Our human qualifications are less important than our readiness to respond. A prophet, just like an evangelist, is a spokesperson—an ambassador or representative—of God and only speaks God’s messages. This often comes at significant cost—personal rejection, financial poverty, physical suffering, and sometimes even death. Jesus himself told his disciples to expect this from the world, which first persecuted him ().

The discouraging message God gave the prophet in was often quoted by Jesus when describing the results of his ministry: The people would refuse to hear and their hearts would be hardened (). Although God promised that a remnant would be saved, Isaiah was never told that he would see the fruit of his lonely labors. The prophets spoke of what they did not live to see (), living and proclaiming by faith rather than by sight—a life of trust to which we all are called.

HEZEKIAH In Sickness and in Health

LIKE MOST OF US, KING HEZEKIAH HAD good moments and not-so-good moments. He cleaned house after his wicked father, Ahaz, died—purifying the Temple, reinstituting Passover, and eliminating idols throughout Israel (). Against this backdrop of religious reform, Assyria threatened Jerusalem (), directly challenging the people’s faith in God’s provision. In despair, Hezekiah asked Isaiah to pray for deliverance. His appeal to God models godly leadership. Hezekiah acknowledged God’s unique sovereignty, asked for rescue that only the true God could provide, and reminded the Lord that this deliverance would testify to the nations. Through Isaiah, the Lord assured Hezekiah that despair was unnecessary because God was in control and would defeat his people’s enemies.

Seek God first, in good times and bad

Later, during a life-threatening illness, Hezekiah cried out to God, who mercifully granted him fifteen more years of life. Hezekiah composed a beautiful hymn of thanksgiving that acknowledged God’s sovereignty over life, death, sickness, and health, and testified to the importance of suffering as a means of discipline to restore right relationship with the Lord.

Not long after that, Hezekiah showed off his possessions to visiting Babylonian ambassadors, revealing his proud heart and practically asking to be conquered. Isaiah prophesied that Babylon would take all those possessions—including Hezekiah’s own sons, who would be made into eunuchs and forced to serve a foreign king—after Hezekiah’s death. This time, rather than seeking God’s forgiveness and asking Isaiah to intercede, Hezekiah retreated into a falsely pious acceptance of the Lord’s word. Hezekiah’s response was astonishingly shortsighted—and yet so very human. We are all tempted to see consequences as insignificant if they don’t affect us directly. Godly leadership means thinking of those we are responsible for, interceding on their behalf, and working for their good. The contrast between Hezekiah’s leadership and Isaiah’s prophecies about a better ruler—the Servant who would suffer personally for the sake of his people—is quite remarkable.

CYRUS God Chooses Kings

GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY OVER HUMAN AFFAIRS is so extensive that he chooses even pagan kings to accomplish his purposes. Isaiah prophesied that a king named Cyrus would be appointed by God to liberate his people (; ). Jeremiah prophesied a seventy-year exile in Babylon (). A Persian king named Cyrus fulfilled both of these prophecies by conquering Babylon and allowing the Jews to return to their homeland to rebuild the Temple (; ).

God delights in acting contrary to human wisdom

By calling Cyrus to this task—restoring the Jewish people from exile—God vividly demonstrated how the unwitting actions of humans, including mighty rulers, can be mysteriously bent toward God’s ultimate purposes. Isaiah even referred to Cyrus as “messiah” (“his anointed one,” )—a title reserved exclusively for David and his descendants. Such a bold claim met with skepticism, as makes clear. But God delights in surprises and in acting contrary to apparent human wisdom (). God’s strength is made manifest in our weakness, especially because we are no longer able to boast in our own wisdom or strength (). If we are to depend on God alone, we must surrender our claim to know better than God. Relinquishing that stance is no easier or less painful today than it was for Isaiah’s audience—but it is just as necessary.

Cyrus, too, might have bristled at the idea that he was acting out the commands of the God of the Hebrews. After all, he was the most powerful person on earth, the leader of the mighty Persian Empire. If anyone on earth was completely in control of his own decisions, it was Cyrus. And yet even he was subject to the plans of the Lord, whether he knew it or not.

SUFFERING SERVANT A Man of Sorrows

THE FIGURE OF THE SERVANT appears throughout the last several chapters of Isaiah and has been the subject of much discussion. Who is this Servant? At times the Servant is identified with Israel as a whole (; ; ), but ancient Israel clearly failed to carry out the Servant’s mission to witness to God’s glory and shine light in the darkened pagan world. Elsewhere, the figure sounds like Isaiah himself (), but Isaiah’s suffering never seems to have reached the level described in . The Suffering Servant would reveal God in a paradoxical way: through suffering and humiliation, sacrificing his life to rescue the people of God.

Hundreds of years later, Jesus opened his public ministry with a sermon from (), emphasizing that people affected by disabilities were at the center of his saving activity. Later, the New Testament writers clearly identified Jesus as the Suffering Servant, and they regarded many of the details in Isaiah as being specific prophecies about Jesus.

Jesus understands our experiences perfectly and completely

The Suffering Servant was described as appearing not in majesty but “despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief” (). He would bear our weaknesses and carry our sorrows. He would be pierced for our sin and rebellion, whipped and beaten for our healing. Our sin would be laid on him. His death would be undeserved—like a lamb led to slaughter without resistance. His body would be buried in a rich man’s grave. His death would (miraculously) produce a host of descendants, and he would be satisfied by the accomplishments of his anguish.

Every line of this prophecy fits the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. It is particularly meaningful to contemplate how the very Son of God identifies so deeply with suffering humanity. The figure described here is no stranger to alienation, abandonment, and anguish. As Hebrews says, Jesus Christ is our great High Priest who learned obedience and was made perfect through suffering, who understands perfectly what we experience (; ; ). Every aspect of our experience of suffering is familiar to Jesus Christ, and he accompanies us in the midst of each painful moment.

JEAN VANIER Transforming Hearts

IN THE 1960S, a highly-educated Canadian theologian named Jean Vanier invited two men with developmental disabilities to live with him in a small French village. This was the beginning of L’Arche (French for “The Ark”), inclusive communities of faith and friendship where people with and without intellectual disabilities share life together. L’Arche intentionally focuses on relationships of mutual assistance, not on building institutions where professionals merely “help” people with disabilities. Life together in L’Arche communities is about shared vulnerability and humble service on the basis of equality. These communities exemplify a kind of life based on radically different standards than those found in most cultures.

The strong need the weak just as much as the weak need the strong

In 2015, Vanier received the Templeton Prize, a prestigious award recognizing insights into the “big questions” of life. In his acceptance speech, Vanier described these communities as a laboratory for healing as people learn to enter into real relationships with one another. This is difficult because we tend to value what we can do on our own. However, the “strong” need the “weak” just as much as the “weak” need the “strong”—people with intellectual disabilities and those with “typical” intellectual abilities need one another in order to become fully human. Vulnerability is part of what it means to be fully human, and that reality is simply more evident in people with intellectual disabilities. Our value as human beings is not ultimately found in our accomplishments, wealth, or status. Instead, our value is inherent in our humanity. Our self-perception of that value often derives from our relationships, from being accepted for who we are rather than what we do.

The prophetic testimony of L’Arche communities is seen in their living demonstration of mutuality and communion, of acceptance based on love rather than earned accomplishments. The communities are not perfect—they are composed of people, after all. But they exemplify the kind of place where God loves to dwell. God, the high and lofty one, dwells with those whose spirits are humble ().

JEREMIAH Perseverance in Suffering

IMAGINE WALKING A FEW MILES IN JEREMIAH’S SHOES. He was told about the impending doom of his country, which he’d have to live through. God asked him to speak and write messages that few people would listen to or obey. His prophetic days began under the care of a good king, but later an evil king took the throne, who persecuted him day and night. He was never allowed to marry and was told that his life would be filled with disaster, danger, defeat, and a national catastrophe.

No one would choose such a life.

Saints are sinners who keep on going

Jeremiah responded with perseverance and great courage. He was tough as nails, like a Special Forces soldier sent on God’s most arduous missions. As one of the greatest Hebrew prophets, he mourned the loss of Josiah, Judah’s last good king. He preached the great Temple discourse () and watched Jerusalem fall as the Hebrews were taken captive by Babylon. But he never ceased to plead for the promise of divine grace for sinners (; see also ). The book which bears his name is a testimony to Jeremiah’s relentless pursuit of truth. And although he did not live to see their fulfillment, Jeremiah’s prophecies came true in the life of Jesus (). His testimony rang true through decades of struggles and its truth endures beyond his lifetime.

How do we respond when given bad news, maybe even the worst life-changing news ever? What if our suffering were to go on for years or decades and include our precious families, friends, and communities? Like Jeremiah and the prophets of old, we can determine to persevere en route to a “country” we cannot see or even imagine, but upon which we can depend with the full assurance of God’s Word (). The path is well-traveled and the journey worth taking, so lace up those shoes and keep walking!

JUDAH’S PROPHETS True or False?

THERE ARE AT LEAST TWO SIDES to every question. Confronted by conflicting prophecies, Judah’s leaders struggled over how to decide between Jeremiah’s messages and the booming declarations of the other prophets. The stakes were high as they waged their game of “true or false.” Everyone’s eyes were on the contest between these opposing prophets.

While claiming to speak for God, the false prophets spoke of hope and security, peace and prosperity (; ). They sought to countermand Jeremiah’s prophecy of coming destruction, saying everything was going to be all right. But false words spewed from the mouths of the lying prophets who were “as wicked as the people of Sodom and Gomorrah” ()—and everyone knows what happened to them! Yet, Jeremiah was steadfast as he bravely preached “what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies [said] concerning the prophets” (). He accused them of making up everything they said and stubbornly following their own desires.

The truth is not always easy to hear

We find the same type of dynamic in the New Testament. The Sanhedrin debated how they should treat Peter and John. The Romans tried to understand the issues surrounding Paul’s arrest. Jesus’ trial included the cries of wicked leaders spewing trumped-up charges and a perplexed Roman magistrate who just wanted to squelch any kind of uprising. People spoke what pleased their own ears and condemned their enemies, but it never aligned with what God was actually saying to them.

In today’s digital information age, it is easier than ever for false prophets to mislead through slick ads and hyperbole, promising cures that offer false hope, especially to patients with terminal diagnoses. If an email or infomercial is offering promises that your trusted physicians aren’t willing to give, exercise caution. Life is a high-stakes game best played on our knees, praying over every option and asking for godly discernment. God has promised to give us true wisdom when we ask for it (). Sometimes our suffering is due to our failure to weigh the words of others against Scripture. Yes, there are always (at least) two sides to life’s many questions, but there is only one side that counts—God’s truth!

J. TODD BILLINGS Rejoicing in Lament

AS THE PROFESSOR ASCENDED THE PODIUM, his students expected another lecture on theology; instead, he was about to make theology come alive. This forty-year-old teacher was about to tell his students that he had recently been diagnosed with a rare, incurable cancer.

The professor was J. Todd Billings, research professor of Reformed theology at Western Theological Seminary. During the time he had left on earth, Billings wanted to educate his students—and the church—on what it meant to live out the theology of suffering he had taught for so long. So in 2015, he published a book titled Rejoicing in Lament.

The hope of Christ enables us to rejoice in lament

How do we rejoice in lament? The book of Jeremiah gives us a hint. At its core is God’s promise that he would one day establish a “new covenant” with his people, in which he would write his laws “on their hearts” (). He would be their God, and they would be his people—enjoying sweet, unbroken fellowship with him forever. Centuries later, Jesus Christ instituted that new covenant through the shedding of his blood on the cross, making it possible for broken humanity to be reconciled with their Maker. Because of this, we can look forward with eager anticipation to the renewal of all creation, including our bodies—the same bodies that now suffer from rare, incurable cancers. In the meantime, we have the presence of Christ and his indwelling Spirit, which gives us a sustaining hope. That hope, in turn, empowers us to rejoice in the midst of lament. For we know that God, when he makes all things new, “will not forget the blind and lame,” nor anyone else who suffers (). Instead, “the young women will dance for joy, and the men—old and young—will join in the celebration,” and God himself “will turn their mourning into joy” ().

As the title of Billings’s book suggests, rejoicing in the midst of lament is made possible in the context of a vibrant, living relationship with Jesus Christ. For Billings, there will come a day when he will no longer be behind the lectern. Instead, he will be behind the curtain (), under the altar (), awaiting the blessed hope ()—and he will lament no more. There will only be rejoicing.

EXILES Hope for Those in Exile

ALEXANDER SOLZHENITSYN. NATAN SHARANSKY. Nelson Mandela. Martin Luther King, Jr. What do these names have in common? Each suffered in prison. Each was separated from those they loved. Each was banished from their home. They were exiles.

Modern political refugees mirror Judah’s exilic plight. Exiles are displaced and barred from returning to their homeland. They are often mistreated by the native people in their new land and have no standing in society. As outsiders, exiles cannot always depend on their host country’s laws to give them justice. In some cases, they even have to defend their own humanity.

Exiles suffer in every conceivable way: physically, emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and vocationally. So what is an exiled person to do?

The book of Jeremiah is a letter to an exiled remnant, the people of Judah. God’s word to his suffering people is that they should continue to live life as best they can, benefiting the people and the culture around them. In times of suffering, there is a crucial difference between “biding one’s time” and “using one’s time.” God’s people are called to do the latter.

God’s remnant has a hope that transcends all suffering

The notion of a “remnant” ()—a small nucleus of loyal followers through whom God works his eternal purposes and who he will never abandon ()—is found throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, God’s remnant in Judah maintains the hope of a whole nation. In the New Testament, Christians are also called exiles. Like the Hebrews, we are temporary residents and foreigners in the world (; ), a group of people committed to God’s Word and God’s promises. Because we know what it is like to be an exile, we bear responsibility to care for and protect those outside the believing community (; ; ; ; ). Exiles suffer more than most. Israel’s past taught them how to treat others. Christians are given the same duty and opportunity.

Whether one’s name is Solzhenitsyn, Mandela, King, or something else, exiles feel suffering deeply. But God’s remnant has a hope that surpasses all understanding: The Messiah will restore all things ().

EZEKIEL An Obedient Watchman

EZEKIEL WAS A MAN OF OBEDIENCE. Even in the most gut-wrenching circumstances, he responded in submission to God without question. From lying on his side for over a year (), to being God’s “watchman” () for people who rejected and ignored him (), to losing his wife (), Ezekiel’s obedience was in extreme contrast to the rebellious exiles who heard his prophecies. God longed to see his people repent in the midst of their suffering, but their hearts were like stone. Ezekiel continually told them that their pain and hardships were also a means to knowing God in a greater way, but they refused to listen. Rather than respond in humble repentance, they simply searched for ways to avoid or remove their suffering that would still allow them to continue in their sin.

God has called us not to success but to faithfulness

As a watchman, Ezekiel was responsible for relaying the prophetic words of God. When the Lord places this sort of call on a person’s life, the teller is responsible for the telling. If people refuse to listen and repent, their suffering is on their own heads. Generations are responsible for their own choices—even when they choose poorly! God allowed the Israelites to be stubborn, keep their stony hearts, and worship idols. Ultimately, they suffered the consequences of their actions.

The cost of being a watchman is high. Despite his own obedience, Ezekiel suffered the consequences of others’ disobedience. But in his compassion, God also gave Ezekiel a message of hope and new life. In , God provided in great detail a picture of the new Temple, representing God’s renewed—and substantially enlarged—presence among his people. This must have encouraged Ezekiel as he shared his prophetic message, prompting him to move from a pronouncement of doom to a hopeful appeal: God still has good plans for his people, but in order to participate, they have to acknowledge that he alone is God.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN 

Calling a Nation to Repentance

A TALL, LANKY FARM BOY with only a limited education, Abraham Lincoln grew up to change the world through his choice to follow God. President of the United States during the Civil War (1861–1865), he is one of the greatest leaders America has ever known. His statements about the bloodshed during the Civil War are instructive in our day and for all people. In his second inaugural address, he drew on Jesus’ words in the King James Version of to argue forcefully that the “woes” being experienced by his country were the direct result of national sin, particularly the abuse of slavery.

Lincoln saw the sinful practices of a nation and the expectations of a holy God

President Lincoln saw a connection between the sinful practice of American slavery and the devastation of a bloody and protracted civil war. Slavery was an appalling evil—both an offense against God and against innocent people. Lincoln’s address asserted that the scourge of war was God’s judgment against the offense of slavery. He also made it clear that we reap what we sow and urged the nation forward to complete the good work of ending this sinful practice in order to enjoy a just and lasting peace (). Ezekiel also offered hope to his contemporaries: “If wicked people turn from their wickedness . . . and do what is just and right, they will save their lives. They will live because they . . . decided to turn from their sins” ().

Lincoln’s response to the national crisis of his day was to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (). He sought forgiveness from the Lord and, even in the midst of the scourge of war, continued to affirm that “the laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair” (). Lincoln prayed for America. Let us pray that all nations will recognize the evil of sin, seek godly leaders, and humbly ask for God’s mercy.

DANIEL Tested and Proven Faithful

IMAGINE BEING a well-educated, handsome, 16-year-old boy and finding yourself captive in a strange land 900 miles away from home. This was reality for Daniel and other young nobles of Judah.

Daniel’s Hebrew name means “God is my judge.” When taken into exile, Daniel was given a new name by his Babylonian captors: Belteshazzar, referencing a Babylonian deity instead. His captors had the authority to change his name, but not his allegiance. Daniel remained faithful to his identity as a believer in the God of Israel and refused to worship anything or anyone else.

Daniel’s first test came when he was offered the delicacies of the king’s table, which was filled with the finest wines and meats. He resolved not to be defiled by the king’s food and continued to trust in God’s provision for both sustenance and protection. Servants were expected to follow protocol, but God’s favor kept Daniel safe as he refused to partake.

When called upon to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel sought the Lord in prayer. God revealed the meaning of the dream, and Daniel praised God for giving him wisdom (). Although Daniel was highly educated, he acknowledged that true wisdom and understanding came from the Lord.

Daniel’s choice between obeying God or people came with extreme pressure—eventually bringing him face to face with a den of hungry lions. But Daniel chose to remain faithful to God. His persistence was rewarded as God shut the mouths of the lions (). And Daniel gave all the praise and glory to God.

Daniel always chose to remain faithful to God

Daniel’s attitude included personal confession and humility. He never stopped praying for captive Israel and claiming God’s promise of restoration. Throughout his life Daniel sought the Lord for wisdom and deliverance (; ).

We should follow Daniel’s example and strive to be people of faith, trusting in God’s goodness, love, and power regardless of our circumstances. May we continually seek the Lord on behalf of our loved ones, our nation, and ourselves, proclaiming: “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power” ().

SHADRACH, MESHACH, AND ABEDNEGO Four in the Furnace

SEVERAL YEARS after the Israelites were taken into exile, King Nebuchadnezzar erected a golden statue of himself and decreed that everyone in his kingdom would bow to the ground and worship his statue. Anyone who disobeyed this order would be thrown into a blazing furnace. But three Israelites—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—refused to worship the idol. They witnessed to the king about their faith in God and their belief that God could deliver them even from the burning flames. Their defiance angered King Nebuchadnezzar, who did not hesitate to order them thrown into the sizzling-hot furnace.

It’s likely these three zealous believers had never experienced burning pain. The same cannot be said for many people whose physical conditions cause burning pain throughout their bodies. Helen’s diabetic neuropathy sends such burning sensations into her feet and legs that even the touch of a bed sheet is unbearable. Bobby’s juvenile arthritis causes extreme inflammatory joint pain, keeping him from school and play. Molly loved serving on missions trips to Romania before the extreme burning pain of her quadriplegia required her to take heavy mixtures of pain medications that bring only short periods of relief. While Helen, Bobby, and Molly didn’t choose these fiery trials, they share the miracle of the Israelites in this story: the power of God’s constant presence.

God is with us in the fire

When King Nebuchadnezzar looked into the blazing furnace, he saw not three people but four! The Most High God walked beside Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, which caused the king to declare in amazement, “There is no other god who can rescue like this!” (). God used the brave faith of these three young Hebrews to change the heart of a cruel king.

When we bear witness to Christ’s presence in our trials and sufferings, people’s hearts will be changed. Others will be astounded by our steadfast faith in God and by God’s sustaining grace. We can claim God’s promise from , “When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”

HOSEA Husband of Unfailing Love

GOD’S LOVE IS PERSONAL AND UNRELENTING. This truth was illustrated powerfully in the life of the prophet Hosea, whose personal odyssey became a living example of God’s unfailing love for his people Israel. The Lord told Hosea to marry a woman who was a prostitute—most likely a temple prostitute for a local pagan god, as this was very common during this time. Hosea found Gomer and married her. They had three children, each one given a name showcasing Israel’s unfaithfulness. Just as Israel was unfaithful to God, so Gomer would prove to be unfaithful to Hosea.

Gomer didn’t stay long with Hosea. Whether because she had an addiction to her former lifestyle that she never overcame or because she felt unlovable or unworthy of the love of an upright man like Hosea, Gomer left, returning to her old life. Hosea was most likely left forlorn. Humiliation and rejection were a daily part of his life during this time. Many questions were probably going through his head: Why couldn’t I keep my marriage together? Why was I not enough for her? To his dismay, he was now a single father—and surely the talk of the town even though he was a prophet of God.

God loves you unconditionally and without limit

Hosea and Gomer’s story did not end with her leaving and going back to her life of prostitution. God instructed Hosea to go after her and bring her back home. Hosea rescued and redeemed Gomer. This was an image of the unfailing love that God had for his people—the same love that sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to the cross for us.

In some ways, the feelings and emotions that Hosea dealt with are similar to those people face in their daily struggles to cope with disability. If this is where you find yourself, take comfort in the life of Hosea. God made it clear that Hosea’s suffering was not the result of anything he himself had done but instead was intended as a powerful illustration of God’s love. No matter where you are today, God’s unfailing love is there for you, too. Just as Hosea loved his wife through adultery, ridicule, shame, and loneliness, God loves you unconditionally and without limit.

AMOS The Prophet Confronts Injustice

AMOS’S NAME probably means “one sustained by the Lord.” Indeed, the Lord’s sustaining power was vital to Amos’s survival as a prophet. Before the Lord called him, Amos was a shepherd from Tekoa, a small Judean town located about 10 miles outside of Jerusalem. He apparently made a good living. He was not a trained prophet and had no intention of becoming one (). But when his people faced a crisis, a divine call came to him (). That is often how the Lord gets our attention. He uses a trial to wake us up to our true calling.

In obedience to the Lord, Amos left the comforts of his home and went to Samaria in order to confront the leaders there. His message from the Lord was particularly difficult for two reasons: First, Amos was from Judah, the southern kingdom, while his prophecy was aimed at Israel, the northern kingdom. Second, the people of Israel were living very comfortably and enjoying great wealth and prosperity. No one wanted to hear Amos’s call to repent of their social injustices and false religious practices, even if they would face exile and utter ruin. Though we may not want to hear it, Amos’s message is also relevant for any nation in any time period living in great comfort but under false pretenses.

Before God can speak to us, he must get our attention

The eighth century BC witnessed the fall of Israel in the north. If it weren’t for the reforms of King Hezekiah, Judah would surely have fallen then as well. The writing prophets began their ministries in times of trial. Although they were from different backgrounds, they all had one thing in common: a deep conviction that they were called by the Lord to witness to his people who were going astray. The spiritual decay of those in the north showed up most clearly in the way they treated the most vulnerable among them, which precipitated Amos’s cry for social justice.

Amos was a prime example of the loyal ministry of the writing prophets, even though he was untrained. He is worthy to represent those who came before and after him.

JONAH A Bitter Prophet

JONAH’S SPECIFIC MISSION from God was to go to the city of Nineveh and proclaim a message of judgment on the people’s wickedness. As God’s prophet, he should have looked forward to calling people to repentance as well as celebrating their changed hearts. Instead, he boarded a ship headed in the opposite direction. He was running from God—or so he thought. When a great storm arose and Jonah realized that his disobedience was putting himself and his shipmates in mortal danger, he insisted that the crew throw him overboard.

Jonah sunk into the sea’s depths, clinging to his last bit of air. But God sent a great fish to swallow him. Then, he sat sulking in the murky, smelly pit of the fish’s stomach for three long days and nights before he finally surrendered and cried out to God for help.

The three dark days that Jonah spent in the belly of the fish foreshadow the death and resurrection of Christ (). Jonah was given new life, so to speak, when on the third day the fish spit him out on the shore. He arose as a new man who was ready to fulfill his mission and calling.

Hanging on to bitterness or vengeance poisons the soul

Jonah immediately headed for Nineveh and began proclaiming the message God had given him. The people heeded the prophet’s warning and turned to God. But when thousands were saved from judgment, Jonah was deeply disappointed. He was angry with God over the mercy, grace, and forgiveness that God had extended to the Ninevites, who were Judah’s enemies. What was at the core of Jonah’s vengeful bitterness? Was it fear? Or did his pride long to see his enemies destroyed? Either way, Jonah’s character needed more refinement. Hanging on to bitterness or vengeance poisons the soul.

Through Jonah’s life, we see God’s great love for all people and the need to be careful “that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many” ().

ZECHARIAH Visions of the Messiah

NEARLY HALF OF THE BOOK OF ZECHARIAH details the eight visions that he received directly from the Lord. This indicates how important they were for Zechariah’s day and how significant they would be in every subsequent generation. These visions foretell several details of the mission of the Messiah. They also reveal the immediate issues facing the people of Israel, particularly threats from their enemies. Thus, each vision has present and future implications.

Through Zechariah, the Lord exhorted the high priest Jeshua (who foreshadowed the coming Christ) and the people to be obedient by completing the Temple. The Lord assured them that he would judge the nations who were oppressing them and send the Messiah, who would cleanse them once and for all and usher in his everlasting Kingdom. Evil would be stamped out forever.

Each of Zechariah’s visions had both present and future implications

The book of Zechariah is an incredible encouragement regarding God’s ultimate victory over all the forces of evil in the world. Suffering and disability will be a distant memory. Zechariah’s message contains the most messianic prophecies for its length in the Old Testament, including the first coming of Christ (); his betrayal with 30 pieces of silver (); his death and the scattering of the disciples (); his priesthood (); his kingship (; ); his return (); his establishment of peace (; ); and God’s judgment on the nations ().

When Christ returns, what a glorious day it will be! Zechariah’s message is meant to lift the spirits of the oppressed and to give them a sure hope for the future.

MARY AND JOSEPH Obedience in Difficult Circumstances

THE IMPENDING BIRTH OF A CHILD can engender all sorts of fears and other complex emotions. Even Jesus’ earthly parents experienced this. Imagine Mary and Joseph finding out that she would become pregnant while they were still engaged (a surefire recipe for slanderous gossip!). It’s hard when others don’t understand and even harder when you don’t fully comprehend all that is happening—or why.

Understanding is optional, but obedience is always required

Sometimes fear can cause us to hesitate, but we must remember this: When God orchestrates the events of our lives, understanding is optional, but obedience is always required. God chose Joseph and Mary to be the earthly parents of Jesus, just as he has chosen you to fulfill your responsibilities on the path your life takes, even if you never understand the why—or the how.

Mary and Joseph had to travel—on short notice and under less-than-ideal circumstances—first from Nazareth to Bethlehem, in obedience to the decree of the Roman emperor, and then to Egypt, to protect their child from King Herod. These were unexpected, long, and difficult journeys, but they were part of God’s plan and also fulfilled prophecy. Perhaps you have been uprooted unexpectedly—maybe by a required move to an unfamiliar place in order to secure medical treatment for yourself or to gain access to resources needed to care for someone you love. You don’t know how you can afford this or how you will survive. But God had some special accommodations waiting for Mary and Joseph (a stable that was humble but private and warm), and he had some special newborn welcome gifts for the baby (valuable gold, frankincense, and myrrh that would help with expenses). Those who embrace God’s plan for themselves and their families find that he has already gone ahead of them to provide for their needs.

JOHN THE BAPTIST Expressing Doubt

JOHN THE BAPTIST had a pretty clear idea about who Jesus was. After all, when Jesus came to John to be baptized, John initially declined because he felt unworthy to do it (), and then John heard the voice of God from heaven and saw the Spirit descend like a dove, confirming Jesus as God’s beloved Son ().

Yet when John found himself in prison, he had serious doubts and sent some of his followers to ask Jesus, “Are you the Messiah we’ve been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?” (). Somehow, suffering in prison didn’t seem like the right plan if Jesus was in fact who John thought he was. We also can begin to doubt God when our lives don’t make sense or our expectations are not met. We wonder if God is who we thought he was when we first met him. But God’s plans are not subject to our desires or dreams. His plan for us often involves suffering and pain in this present world.

Doubts may come, but hold on to Jesus!

Jesus’ reply to John’s disciples was gentle and understanding—yet challenging, too. “‘Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen. . . .’ And he added, ‘God blesses those who do not turn away because of me’” (, ). We don’t know how John responded to this answer from Jesus because John was unjustly killed by Herod Antipas before being released from prison (). We can imagine that when he found himself in heaven, all his doubts were put to rest, and God’s plan was revealed to be just.

Life on this earth is incomplete and even contradictory at times. We rarely have all the explanation we desire for the seemingly conflicting circumstances of life, especially when they are painful and lonely. Our hopes and prayers often seem to be battered by the whims of life’s harsh realities. But when we arrive in the presence of God all questions and doubts will cease, for God’s plan will then be seen to be perfect and just in every way.

PETER Imperfect Understanding

JESUS ASKED HIS DISCIPLES one of the most significant questions any person can ever be asked: “Who do you say I am?” (). Peter’s answer got an A+: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” ().

But then, almost immediately, Peter tried to correct Jesus’ prediction that he was going to die in Jerusalem and be raised from the dead. For this response, Peter received an F and a sharp rebuke! Peter’s first declaration was better because he did not learn this truth from any human being but from God the Father. His second response, however, was a “dangerous trap” because he was looking at things “merely from a human point of view, not from God’s” ().

Many of us are like Peter, having true insights from God sometimes and yet at other times speaking from a worldly perspective. When you are under pressure, you especially need to discern between these two viewpoints. Not everything another believer says is true, even if it sounds like good advice at first.

Discernment is important when listening for truth

A person’s perspective should only be embraced when it comes from our Father in heaven and is compatible with the revelation of Scripture. Lots of well-meaning people will counsel you “from a human point of view,” just like Peter. He didn’t want Jesus—the conquering King—to go to Jerusalem and die on the cross, so he declared that it wouldn’t happen. But our views of what is good and necessary are often limited. We need God’s perspective.

Some believers want desperately to assure you that things will get better—that God is going to bring miraculous physical healing if you have enough faith. But they may not have any substantial biblical truth to stand behind these assertions. The Bible teaches that full and complete healing will occur when Christ—who conquered death—returns. He has promised to “wipe every tear from [our] eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain” (). God promises hope and healing, but it is according to his timing. We must exercise care and discernment when listening for truth, so that we are not led astray by worldly thinking but are instead encouraged by biblical truth.

MAN WITH PARALYSIS Counting the Cost

JESUS WAS TEACHING IN CAPERNAUM when four men, through great effort and ingenuity, presented a man who suffered with paralysis to Jesus. While their creativity was impressive, the crux of the story is whether Jesus could do what the religious teachers believed was strictly within the purview of God. Only God could pronounce forgiveness of sins. Yet here was Jesus, making such a pronouncement.

Jesus told the man his sins were forgiven. When pressed, Jesus did more. He healed the man with a simple directive, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” ().

The remarkable obedience of the man on the stretcher must not be overlooked. What did he expect? What did he think would happen? Were his sins forgiven? Was he healed? Was he the beneficiary of two miracles and blessings from Jesus for the price of one? With a room full of those gathered to see, hear, and evaluate this rabbi from Nazareth, Jesus would be proved by what the paralytic did next.

Doubt and delay would have been completely reasonable responses in that moment. What would it cost the man to remain still? What would it cost to try to get up and fail? What would it cost to get up, pick up his mat, and go home?

What would it cost this man to get up, pick up his mat, and walk home?

With a hundred conflicting thoughts swirling around in the mind of the man with paralysis and with everything to lose and gain, he stood up, picked up his mat, and went home. Without a word, he proved himself as faithful as his ancestors who built the Tabernacle under Moses, following God’s instructions down to the last detail (). Likewise, this new follower of Jesus did exactly what Jesus told him to do.

It takes great courage to embrace change, step forward in obedience, and leave the only life we’ve known—even with the hope of a better life ahead. Yet this is exactly what Jesus offers.

THE PEOPLE OF NAZARETH Rejecting the Familiar

THE PEOPLE OF NAZARETH knew Jesus well. They could recite his dossier. He was Joseph and Mary’s son, the carpenter. He had brothers and sisters, whom they could name (). How could this same Jesus teach in the synagogue and cause such amazement?

Jesus was the young man from ’round the way, whom they had watched grow up. He came from an unremarkable family and did an unremarkable job in their unremarkable town—just like any of them. Yet they could not deny that his teaching in the synagogue amazed them. How could they possibly reconcile the unremarkable Jesus they knew from the neighborhood with the remarkable Jesus who now stood before them? The people of Nazareth had to decide how to resolve their dilemma. Would they claim that the past was past and acknowledge Jesus as an amazing teacher? Or would they reject him?

They missed the Messiah who had been in their midst all along

Their choice revealed more about them than it did about Jesus. Yes, they had observed the circumstances of Jesus’ upbringing, but they did not understand the big picture. By refusing to acknowledge that Jesus had actually become the amazing teacher standing before them, they revealed that they did not believe that one of their own could be God’s instrument for the miraculous. Thus, they didn’t think God could use any of them; they were unworthy and beneath God’s notice. The miraculous happened elsewhere. Not there in Nazareth. And not by one of their own ().

The people of Nazareth resolved the conflict between their perception and the reality in front of them by rejecting the image of Jesus that was new to them. In so doing, they missed the Messiah who had been in their midst all along. Often, rejecting another person says more about the one doing the rejecting than it does about the one being rejected.

THE DISCIPLES Widening Perspective

ONE COMMON THEME in the Gospel of Mark is the secrecy of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. He performed miracles and healings, frequently followed up with an entreaty to remain silent about them. This was undoubtedly difficult for those whom Jesus healed, and many clearly failed to keep quiet.

The emotional urgency of being healed must have been significant and difficult to process. The disciples, however, were in a far more difficult position. They witnessed miracle after miracle. It wasn’t just difficult to explain away—it was impossible! The power of God was being released upon his people time and time again. How could the disciples account for this? Who was this man Jesus, through whom so much power flowed?

It may be easy for us to look back with the benefit of hindsight and see what the disciples missed. We know that Jesus was God incarnate standing in their midst. But what the disciples experienced was unprecedented. No wonder it took them so long to work it out!

Looking around at the crowd of thousands, they wondered, “How are we supposed to find enough food to feed them out here in the wilderness?” (). How could they have forgotten so quickly? Jesus had just fed 5,000 people ().

While in the boat without sufficient food, they worried about their stomachs. “Don’t you understand yet?” Jesus had to ask ().

Discovering who Jesus really is can take time

When Jesus asked, “Who do people say I am?” The disciples reported John the Baptist, Elijah, or another prophet. This was merely a prelude for the important question: “But who do you say I am?” Peter replied, “You are the Messiah” (; see also ).

It took time for the disciples to grasp that he was God’s Son. Regardless of how long it takes us, what matters is that we recognize Jesus for who he is. As evidenced by the disciples, it can have less to do with proximity and experience than it does with having hearts that understand our Savior and what he has done for us (). And as we spend time getting to know our Lord, we also come to see other people through his eyes.

FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT The Purposeful Life

THE 32ND PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES did not want to be defined by his disability. Nor did he want to be known for his accomplishments. He wanted to be known for his enemies. What does this mean? President Roosevelt made enemies because of what he stood for. Roosevelt was basically saying that he wanted to be known for living up to his purpose in life.

Roosevelt was stricken midlife with polio, costing him the use of his legs. It also nearly cost him his political career. He overcame those challenges, built a polio treatment center in Georgia, and later served as president for 13 years, making him the longest-serving president of the United States.

Roosevelt had a strong sense of purpose. He faced the Great Depression by taking decisive action that put millions of Americans to work, yet people worried that he wanted to become an American dictator. Roosevelt committed the United States to military action against the Nazis in World War II, yet some felt that Roosevelt was too friendly with Soviet premier Joseph Stalin.

“I ask you to judge me by the enemies I have made”

Agree or disagree with Roosevelt’s politics, he stood resolutely for what he believed in. He knew his purpose. And he made enemies.

Jesus knew his purpose and refused to be distracted or defined by anyone or anything else. In , Jesus reminded the disciples that he had come to reconcile humanity to God. And he accomplished his purpose because Jesus’ enemies broke his body and ended his earthly life.

LUKE Observant Healer

LUKE WAS A PHYSICIAN with a keen understanding of the human suffering associated with the birth defects, diseases, accidents, and wars common in his day. Often Paul’s traveling companion, Luke likely faced many of the hardships Paul faced. Following God’s calling on his life meant taking personal and professional risks, as well as experiencing suffering.

Since Luke often dealt with people’s sicknesses and frailties, he took note of Jesus’ compassion toward adults and children who were suffering and in pain. He no doubt marveled at the contrast between the temporary and partial extent to which he, a finite human being, could heal his patients and the lasting and complete healing that effortlessly flowed from Jesus’ simple touch or spoken word.

As he traveled with Paul, Luke witnessed the Holy Spirit working in the midst of the early church. He also saw something else: People who were turned away by society due to their illnesses, diseases, and disabilities. But Paul and the other apostles welcomed these people, responding to them with the same compassionate care, healing, and love that Jesus had displayed.

We must do what Jesus did, even if it means loving those society would rather ignore

Women, too, were discriminated against in Jewish society. Luke points to Jesus’ compassion for them more than any other Gospel writer. Mary, the mother of Jesus, described herself as the Lord’s willing servant (); a sinful woman who anointed Jesus’ feet is forgiven (); Mary Magdalene is identified as a supporter of Jesus’ ministry, along with other women who followed Jesus (); and a woman “bent double for eighteen years” () receives Jesus’ healing touch (). Thanks to Luke’s account, people with disabilities, women, and other marginalized individuals stood as a living refutation of the dominant culture’s assumptions that disability was a result of sin or weakness or divine disfavor.

Luke teaches us that as followers of Jesus we must do what he did, even if it means loving those whom society would rather ignore. Following Jesus may open us up to suffering and opposition. Ultimately, Luke reminds us that only Jesus can heal our deepest “disability”—our need for spiritual healing. Jesus is indeed our Great Physician.

NICODEMUS Yearning for More

NICODEMUS LOOKED LIKE he had it all. He was a Pharisee—a religious leader of the Jews (). As such, he was successful, enjoying high status and the respect of his people. His life would have been the envy of most people in Israel. However, he realized that he was missing something, and he saw what he was looking for in Jesus. When he met Jesus, he listened but did not understand. Nevertheless, this learned teacher of the Law sought the wisdom so obviously possessed by this “uneducated” teacher.

As we see in the next chapter, Jesus ministered freely to all, regardless of rank or status—whether a Samaritan woman () or one of the religious leaders of the Jewish people (). Despite Jesus’ openness to all, it’s easy for those of us without rank or privilege to dismiss or even despise Nicodemus. We cannot relate to him. Whether it’s through medical bills, government aid, or access to essential services, it makes us very uncomfortable when powerful people have control over our lives. Nevertheless, in a book that emphasizes Jesus’ ministry to the poor, sick, weak, and marginalized, Nicodemus also plays a prominent role.

People are more alike than we often think

Nicodemus had his problems. He was afraid of being seen and losing his status, so he went to Jesus at night. He was cautious and didn’t want to commit to anything too quickly. He had a lot to lose. But whatever his doubts and fears, Nicodemus stood up for Jesus when he had the opportunity. He spoke up for Jesus among his peers () and ensured that Jesus got a proper burial ().

Nicodemus helps us see that people are a lot more alike than we often think. Everyone has needs. We have fears, are reluctant to commit, and yet seek after truth. We all need Jesus. Thankfully, Jesus accepted everyone whether they had status or not. Thus, whatever our position in society—whether poor or rich, disabled or fully functioning, ill or healthy, low status or high—we know we are accepted. And because Jesus did so, we can accept those who are different from us.

THE SAMARITAN WOMAN 

Out of the Shadows

THE SAMARITAN WOMAN has gotten a bad rap. Some accuse her of being a prostitute, even though there is nothing in the passage to suggest that idea. Others condemn her for her immorality, assuming that this was a lifestyle she chose. That idea has some merit; however, this “choice” must be understood in context. Opportunities for women were minimal, and apart from being associated with a man through marriage or another relationship of influence, it was extremely difficult for a woman of little means to survive. Most likely, she was doing the best she could. Nevertheless, from society’s perspective she was undesirable. It’s likely that she also made some bad choices. Like all of us, she was a sinner in need of grace.

The woman understood her situation. She chose to draw water at a very hot time of the day, when contact with other women was unlikely. Maybe she believed what others thought about her. Maybe she just didn’t want to subject herself to open shame again. Like all people with a reason to be ashamed, it was easier to live in the shadows.

Jesus treated her like family, and it transformed her life

Then, a remarkable thing happened. She met Jesus. He did not treat her as either she or society expected. Even Jesus’ disciples were “shocked” () that he was associating with her. It was not proper for a man to talk in public with a woman who was not his relative. However, Jesus met her where she was not to condemn but to minister to her. One could almost say that Jesus treated her like family. And it transformed her life, turning her into a person who ran back into her village to tell everyone she could find about Jesus.

All we know about the Samaritan woman is in this passage. It is a story about a person, rejected and despised, who suffered and was unable to function in society. Seemingly without hope, she experienced God’s grace in one of the most remarkable ways recorded in Scripture. This is a story of God’s love and concern for all those in need.

THE MAN BORN BLIND 

To God Be the Glory

THE BLIND MAN WAS SIMPLY minding his own business, probably begging. He just happened to be present as Jesus and his disciples walked by. When the disciples saw him, he became the subject of a theological discussion. The disciples asked, “Why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?” (). The questions revealed the disciples’ misunderstanding, and Jesus corrected them, explaining that the man’s disability was not the result of sin. In fact, he was blind in order that Jesus could show God’s power to the world.

Have you ever considered that your suffering may be a means to show God’s glory to the world?

Then Jesus acted and gave sight to the man. The change was instantaneous. The overwhelming sensation of seeing for the first time must have been incredible. Many of us would simply want to take in all we could. There would be time for the man to do this. But first, he showed that his focus was in the right place—on Jesus. He immediately faced opposition from the religious leaders, and even his own family. Ultimately, he was rejected and cast out of the synagogue (). But he was not deterred, because Jesus’ healing had been complete. This man could see—not just the sun, the trees, and people but also the most important sight of all: He could see Jesus for who he truly was. And he responded by worshiping Jesus (). The facts were clear: Only a man from God could heal a man born blind. The religious leaders had been able to see with their physical eyes since birth, but despite this advantage, they were spiritually blind—a blindness so severe they weren’t even aware of it.

Have you ever considered that your suffering and disability may be a means of showing God’s power to the world? Some of us, like the blind man, may be made whole in this life—and this will glorify God. However, if we remain in our present state this side of eternity, the fundamental purpose—bringing glory to God—remains unchanged. Instead of seeing our circumstances as a form of divine punishment, we should view them as an opportunity to glorify and honor God.

JOHN The Beloved Disciple

JOHN WAS AN APOSTLE and, along with Peter and James, a member of Jesus’ inner circle (, ). Tradition tells us that John lived a long and fruitful life in service to the Lord, eventually suffering persecution and exile in his old age. However, in his story about Jesus, John prefers to refer to himself simply as “the disciple Jesus loved” (). We are first introduced to him as he sits close to Jesus at the Last Supper. Here his close proximity to Jesus is highlighted—being next to the one holding a feast is an honorable position. But it is more than that: It is an expression of intimacy.

Next we find the beloved disciple at the foot of Jesus’ cross with Mary, Jesus’ mother, where she is entrusted by Jesus into John’s care (). Unlike the other eleven disciples, John risked his life to be at the cross with Jesus. It’s likely that he was also there for Mary, who he knew would be suffering unbearable pain as she watched her son die a horrific death.

Later, John was alongside Peter as they ran to the tomb after Mary Magdalene informed them it was empty (). He was the first to arrive and was the first person recorded as believing in Jesus’ resurrection (). Although not identified in his usual way, he was among the disciples who were present at the Sea of Galilee when Jesus made a post-resurrection appearance ().

Finally, the disciple whom Jesus loved was the topic of conversation between Jesus and Peter (). After this, the disciple identified himself as the author of this Gospel ().

If you could be remembered for anything, what would it be?

John was a remarkable man. He was a faithful friend, caregiver, evangelist, and believer. However, based on his self-identification in this book, it seems what he wanted to be remembered for was his close relationship with Jesus. He was “the disciple Jesus loved.”

If we could be remembered for anything, what would it be? We are all loved by God. John understood that this was the most important thing about his identity.

STEPHEN The Ultimate Sacrifice

STEPHEN LEARNED that doing the work of God—even in the power of God—didn’t make him immune to the savage attacks of liars bent on opposing the Kingdom of God. As he stood trial with his life on the line, Stephen chose to point his persecutors back to God and to remind the Jewish leaders of God’s faithfulness throughout the generations rather than to defend himself. Hatred had provided him an audience, and Stephen seized the moment to proclaim God’s goodness. Stephen’s personal pain and frustration took a backseat. But the people’s response was not the repentance for which Stephen hoped; instead, it was an immediate sentencing to death by stoning.

As stone after stone took its bloody toll on Stephen’s body, Saul, who was actively persecuting Christians, stood nearby. A short time later, after his dramatic conversion, Saul (later known as Paul) would experience his own suffering on behalf of our Savior (). These two early Christ-followers learned that living in an atmosphere of hatred, suspicion, and fear did not mean that their lives could not glorify God. To the contrary, they shined brightest when surrounded by deepest darkness ().

When we trust God in the midst of pain, persecution, and death, people take notice

Things don’t need to make sense for God to be present and evident. When we trust God anyway—in the midst of pain, persecution, and even death—people take notice.

Throughout history and continuing to the present day, Christians everywhere have faced anger, evil, and injustice fueled by a mob mentality that seems to triumph over reason. Yet Stephen, the first martyr of the early church, died as he had lived, sacrificing for others and for his Savior. He pleaded for mercy—not for himself, but for the very ones who continued stoning him.

ANANIAS Courageous Obedience

RADICAL OBEDIENCE TO GOD can be dangerous. Just ask Ananias, who was minding his own business when he was suddenly presented with an unthinkable task. God came to him in a vision and gave him a risky mission to visit a man with a reputation for murdering Christians. The man in question—a relentless, fanatical Jew named Saul—had attacked the early churches violently and without mercy.

No wonder Ananias struggled to make sense of what God was asking of him. Obedience would mean death, unless God had a greater plan that went beyond what Ananias’s mind and heart could conceive. He could be part of something significant, but it required a huge risk.

He could be part of something significant, but it required taking a risk

Even after Ananias’s initial step of obedience, questions remained. Was Saul’s “conversion” genuine? Was he trying to infiltrate the church in order to spy on them? Or was Ananias witnessing an instance of God’s extraordinary, transformative grace? Only time would tell, but in this one act of obedience, Ananias courageously opened the door—not just for Saul, but ultimately for all Gentiles. Ananias trusted God and welcomed this new brother in spite of his fears ().

In reaching out to people with some kinds of disabilities, you may need courage to overcome your fears of the unknown. Perhaps you wonder what ministry to a person with limited abilities might entail. If you feel awkward and uncomfortable interacting with someone who is dealing with a debilitating condition or life-threatening health issue, ask God to help you understand his or her need and how you can best help meet that need. Ananias had probably never been called to meet with a blind murderer before, but he moved forward in faith. And Saul became Paul, one of the greatest missionaries of all time. Who knows what God will do with the people he asks you to serve? The only way to find out is by taking the courageous step of obedience.

THE EARLY CHURCH 

Advancing the Kingdom

THE BELIEVERS IN THE BOOK OF ACTS were scattered after the death of Stephen (; ). The anger against God and his fast-growing church was like a hurricane-force wind against the sails of a small ship. Persecution had loosened the believers’ moorings, forcing them out of their homeland into new territories. How would these young believers handle such difficulty?

Their zeal for Christ led the way as they told their stories of salvation to all who would listen. Opportunities to witness increased, and the gospel message moved further into the heart of the Roman Empire. Without this catalyst of persecution, they may have simply remained too comfortable, and the advancement of the Kingdom of God might have been much slower.

God has shown that he can redeem our persecution and use it for good

In these new lands, they witnessed to many different types of people. Thankfully, they had “the power of the Lord” (). Like players in a divine drama, they were moving, living, and witnessing with the Lord God as their director and producer. By actively embracing their difficult situations, they honored God—and he honored them in return.

When people encounter change—whether to a new address, job, doctor, or school—uncertainty and turmoil often follow. This distress can become even more intense when individuals and families face the threat of repeated violence and even death because of their belief in Christ—an all-too-common occurrence even today. Yet God has shown that he can redeem our persecution and use it for good, just as he did for the early church. When we are less certain of our physical and material well-being, we learn to depend on God more. While these trials are by no means easy, God can use them to expand his Kingdom.

TAFILLY Finding New Hope

IN WEST AFRICA, a young girl named Tafilly contracted polio, which was almost a death sentence at the time. Tafilly lived, but she had to learn how to accept that her body was not the same after the disease had run its course. By her teen years, the use of her legs was permanently limited. And instead of receiving love and support from her family, she was cast out of her home. Just when she needed support both physically and emotionally, she found herself alone. Thrust out into the streets, Tafilly had to depend on herself for her survival.

Where is hope in such moments? Where is love? Where are the little things that we can hold on to in order to endure?

Tafilly came across a book written by Joni Eareckson Tada. She, too, had been disabled as a teen, and God had loved Joni through her ordeals and enabled her to endure. The book gave Tafilly new hope and showed her a love she felt she could hold on to. Then she read about Christ and his great love for her.

You never know how God will use your story to change lives

In her first days on the streets, Tafilly could not have imagined that one day her story, like Joni’s, would be a source of inspiration and hope. But by the grace of God, Tafilly became a Christian and now addresses the needs of people with disabilities in her community. In a society where people with disabilities are viewed as dispensable, Tafilly reminds them of their potential and purpose. She knows what it means to suffer and refuses to be defined by it. She founded a ministry offering vocational training and Bible study. She understands that we all have something to offer the body of Christ, and we have the privilege of worshiping together in community as we build God’s Kingdom. Tafilly teaches that those who were once isolated can be reconciled to God and belong to his Kingdom through the power of the Holy Spirit.

God uses our stories to reach the hearts of others, sometimes even when we are unaware. Other times, we get to participate in the body of Christ through sharing our faith experiences with others.

PAUL Living for Jesus

PAUL CONSIDERED HIMSELF the spiritual father of the church at Corinth (). Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church spanned several years, including a year and a half stay during his second missionary journey. It began with preaching and teaching that birthed a new community and continued after he left with an exchange of several letters and return visits that provided both encouragement and correction.

The church at Corinth was torn apart by disputes and divisions. Their immorality and pretentious displays of worship were undermining the real work of the Holy Spirit. As Paul reiterated the gospel message which he’d taught them earlier, he called them to live in unity behind a fresh outward expression of the reality of Christ, who was alive in them.

Paul proclaimed Christ as his source of power and purpose

Paul came to Corinth in weakness, timid and trembling (). He preached Christ crucified, but it was not his speech and persuasive words that changed hearts; rather, it was the power of God’s Spirit demonstrated through Paul’s life of service (). Acknowledging his own weakness, Paul proclaimed Christ as his source of power and purpose. While he was away from the Corinthians, he wrote with confidence and authority, as one who had seen the Lord with his own eyes and whose heart was transformed by an encounter with the resurrected Christ ().

Paul’s letters to the Corinthian church contain powerful truths for the church today. Paul continues to call us to live for Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit and united by love. We are to live our lives in a way that is consistent with our beliefs, confident in the expectation of our Lord’s return. What rejoicing there will be on that day when our faith in Christ will be vindicated before the entire world ()!

HENRI NOUWEN Life of the Beloved

HENRI NOUWEN was an ordained Catholic priest, psychologist, and author who found esteem and notoriety as a professor at Notre Dame, Yale, and Harvard but found “home” as a servant to people with disabilities.

Nouwen spent much of his life traveling the world teaching and advocating for social justice. Along the way, he wrote more than forty books. His last book chronicled the years he spent caring for a man named Adam Arnett while serving as pastor at the L’Arche Daybreak community in Canada.

At L’Arche, people with and without disabilities live in community, sharing life and faith. Since Adam could not feed, clothe, or bathe himself, Henri took care of Adam’s every need. He credits Adam, a person who would be dismissed by many in the church and in society, for helping him embrace human brokenness and his own vulnerability.

Already a highly respected Christian author, Nouwen came to terms with what it truly means to be loved by God during his time at L’Arche. He experienced powerful examples God’s love while living among individuals with disabilities, and these experiences transformed Henri’s life and ministry. He came to understand that those who seemed weak by society’s standards were God’s beloved ().

Together we are the body of Christ, the beloved of God

God’s love is unconditional. It does not depend on whether or not we can speak, walk, or express ourselves eloquently. Like Adam Arnett, each of us is loved by God. The body of Christ is made up of many parts. Some are Jews and some are Gentiles, some are slaves and some are free, some are able-bodied and some are disabled—but together we are the body of Christ, the beloved of God.

Have you spent too much time pursuing the security of knowledge or popularity? Take some time to thank God for his unconditional love and for the simple things in life, such as time spent with good friends in a community of faith.

VICKY OLIVAS When Life Isn’t Fair

DISABILITY CAN SOMETIMES ENTER OUR LIVES like a thief in the night. One minute we’re fine, the next we’re encased in a tangled web of metal with a body that will never be the same. Or, a routine check-up turns into a life-changing diagnosis in a matter of minutes. How we respond partly depends on what we believe about God.

When Vicky Olivas was a single mother with a young son, she faced some difficult circumstances. She needed a better job in order to provide a better life for her family. When an employment agency called with a promising interview, she jumped at the chance. In reality, the potential boss was a calculating predator whose only agenda was to lure Vicky into a dark warehouse and attack her.

Vicky fought back and was shot. She instinctively called out to God, “Please, don’t let me die, please!” She lived, but the bullet lodged in her spine, leaving her a quadriplegic. Vicky would never walk again, drive a car, or be able to care for herself—let alone her then eighteen-month-old son.

Initially, Vicky refused to cooperate with her therapy or learn to live with such limited mobility. She tried every potion and prayer under the sun, but to no avail. Eventually, she put life on hold altogether, deciding to wait for God to heal her.

God was able to use Joni’s life to birth new hope for this young mother

Christian friends convinced Vicky to participate in a Bible study group with Joni Eareckson Tada. Vicky was inspired by the full life that Joni enjoyed in spite of her quadriplegia. Those same friends waded through deep discussions on God’s sovereignty and the fact that while he could heal Vicky, no one knew when or if it would happen. They pointed out that she was missing precious moments with her son in the meantime.

Vicky’s friends were willing to come alongside her to offer comfort and point her back to the source of all comfort (). God was able to use Joni’s life to birth new hope for this young mother. Paul teaches us that God wants to minister to every person and then use each of us—even our pain, our struggles, and our disabilities—to minister to others.

BILLY BURNETT A Devoted Heart

WHAT COULD CAUSE a highly successful aerospace engineer, executive vice president, and chief financial officer to fall to his knees, weeping with overwhelming sorrow?

Love! The extraordinary love of a faithful husband as he watches his beautiful wife’s body, racked with pain, being ravaged by debilitating renal failure.

Few people exemplify the heart of a caregiver better than Billy Burnett. Most days, he can be found in his executive office at Joni and Friends from early morning until late into the evening. His devotion to see the Kingdom of God expand is evident to all who know him.

These days, however, there’s another place you’ll find Billy—beside Shirley, his wife of fifty years, who suffers with End Stage Renal Disease. After enduring multiple surgeries, Shirley takes a regimen of medications, spends endless hours connected to a dialysis machine, and battles numerous side effects. Not exactly the plans that Billy and Shirley had for their lives as they near retirement. Yet, you will never hear Billy complain—he counts it a privilege to hold Shirley’s hand through these dark days of uncertainty as she struggles for health and vitality. On good days and bad, they focus on God’s smile and rejoice in his faithfulness—even in the midst of suffering.

Hope is our safe harbor in the midst of life’s raging storms

Billy has been a pillar of strength, assuring Shirley that she is not alone. On one occasion, after a prolonged and painful surgery, Shirley fell asleep on Billy’s shoulder while he wiped her tears and stroked her hair. When she awoke in the morning hours, Billy was still beside her, holding her hand.

During one of Shirley’s many hospital stays, Billy was wiping her mouth with a warm towel to get moisture to her cracked lips, when her cardiologist walked in. Later, the doctor told Billy that he had never seen a husband so engaged in his wife’s illness and that it moved him to tears. In that moment, Billy understood that through his devotion to Shirley, he was reflecting Christ’s sacrificial love for the world—nothing could be a higher priority.

EPAPHRODITUS Devoted Caregiver

ASK FAMILIES AFFECTED by disability about caregivers, and they might paraphrase a familiar proverb: “Who can find a virtuous and capable [caregiver]? She [or he] is more precious than rubies” (). Good caregivers love people and usually become a respected part of the family and medical team. The best ones embrace their task as a calling from God, which seems to have been the case with Epaphroditus. He exemplified Paul’s admonition to “work hard to show the results of your salvation” ().

While Scripture tells us very little about Epaphroditus, a closer examination of the details reveals an honorable man and dedicated caregiver. His church family selected him as a trustworthy person to carry their gifts and offerings to Paul. We can assume he was a man of courage because his very life was probably at risk while serving Paul, who was an unpopular prisoner with an uncertain future. Epaphroditus also made the sacrifice of being separated from his own family, friends, and the comforts of home for an undetermined amount of time. Then, like many committed caregivers who get burned out and exhausted, he became very ill—so ill he almost died.

Good caregivers love people well

As a result of his nurturing heart, a strong bond was formed between the apostle Paul and the relatively unknown Epaphroditus. What joy and satisfaction he must have felt returning to Philippi with Paul’s letter tucked safely in his belt. The apostle graciously acknowledged Epaphroditus’s sacrifice, referring to him as a “true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier” () and one to whom God had shown mercy by healing him (). No doubt the believers at Philippi welcomed their brother home with the honor he deserved.

It would be wonderful if today’s church would catch the vision to love and support those who are willing to serve as caregivers the way Epaphroditus did. As we value caregivers and esteem their work as done unto the Lord, we honor our Savior who is the ultimate model of service and sacrifice for others.

HYMENAEUS AND ALEXANDER  Turning Away from Truth

THE APOSTLE PAUL MENTIONS TWO MEN BY NAME so that almost 2,000 years later we can still learn from their mistakes. What sin did they commit to deserve this? They were false teachers who blasphemed God. The details are few, but Paul said that Hymenaeus and Alexander had “shipwrecked” () their faith, so he threw them out of the fellowship and “handed them over to Satan” ().

These men insulted God by openly questioning his word given through divine revelation. They made a deliberate choice to speak in opposition to the Word of truth. Paul and the other New Testament writers stand in stark contrast to our postmodern world, where truth is considered relative and subjective. “Faith” (mentioned 18 times in 1 Timothy) is not about the act of belief and trust, but rather it is the truth that was revealed by Jesus Christ and preserved in the Scriptures. It is what we believe and live out in the Christian life.

In 2 Timothy, we learn that Hymenaeus “left the path of truth” (). We also learn that Alexander had done much harm to Paul, in part by fighting against everything Paul said ().

We must be faithful to the truth revealed through Jesus Christ and the written Word of God

Young leaders face the temptation of wanting to make a name for themselves or do something to make themselves stand out. As Timothy’s mentor, Paul used the example of Hymenaeus and Alexander to challenge Timothy to remain faithful to what he’d been taught and cling to his faith in Christ.

While believers, young or old, may be innovative in their ministry techniques or embrace the latest technologies, the core doctrines of their faith must remain firmly rooted in the unchanging truth. We too must be faithful to the truth revealed through Jesus Christ and the written Word of God. This truth includes Jesus’ example and his commands to care for children and adults affected by disability. If these friends are missing in our churches, we must go back to the Word and ask ourselves how we will live out this mandate in our everyday lives.

TIMOTHY Carrying the Torch

SOMETIMES INEXPERIENCED YOUNG PEOPLE find it difficult to empathize with hurting people who are facing serious trials—but not Timothy. Paul saw in Timothy a servant pastor with a compassionate heart for all of God’s people. In Paul’s second letter to Timothy, he gives some practical advice on how to come alongside others and help them hold on to their hope in Jesus Christ even during difficult times.

Pastors who care for people in crisis need more than just correct theology; they need a spirit that empathizes and sympathizes with people. Truth without love can be brutal. But Timothy had witnessed Paul’s faith in action and hoped to follow his mentor’s example: “But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance” ().

Every generation faces unique challenges. Pastors must be knowledgeable and sensitive about matters of faith as well as culture. Paul talked to Timothy about the changing times in which they lived and about being prepared to stand fast in the face of opposition and false teaching (, ). Godly pastors prepare themselves (and their people) so that Christ’s message can be heard.

Pastors who care for people in crisis need more than just correct theology

Timothy would need to keep his priorities straight: “Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others” (). Paul understood that leaders can be distracted or preoccupied, so he urged Timothy to keep first things first and view his calling like a soldier on a mission (). Scripture impacts culture with truths that, in turn, must be shared with every generation.

While we may not all be called to serve as pastors, we should not dismiss the wisdom Paul shared with Timothy. In the Great Commission, Jesus challenges each of us to “go and make disciples of all the nations. . . . Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you” (). And make sure to do it with the kind of careful empathy Paul modeled for Timothy.

TYCHICUS A Faithful Helper

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO MINISTER within the local church. Paul compares the body of Christ (the church) to the human body in . All the parts are essential, but some are more visible than others. “In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary” (). Tychicus was one of the members of the church body that was less visible but so important. Paul tells Titus that he is sending “either Artemas or Tychicus to you” (). Apparently one would be sent to continue the work on Crete while Titus returned to Paul’s side. Paul clearly trusted this obscure helper, but who was he?

Tychicus is mentioned five times in the New Testament. In , he accompanied Paul on Paul’s third missionary journey. Elsewhere, Paul calls him “a beloved brother and faithful helper” (; ). When Paul was in a Roman prison, it was likely Tychicus whom he asked to carry these two letters some 1,200 miles to Ephesus and Colosse. Near the end of his life, Paul wrote 2 Timothy—his final letter. He knew the work needed to be carried on, so rather than keeping all his trusted friends close by, he sent them out. Tychicus, one of those trusted friends, went to Ephesus ().

Never say, “I’m just a volunteer”

Jesus called all kinds of faithful helpers to serve during his earthly ministry, and he continues that call in his church today. People with chronic pain and disabilities often serve with great loyalty. We often have no idea what eternal results will come of our faithful service. For example, we might have missed out on the epistles of Ephesians and Colossians if not for Tychicus’s faithful obedience.

Someday we will stand before Jesus as the great Judge. He will review our lives and our work and declare judgment. For followers of Jesus this judgment will be about how we have lived our lives, our attitudes, and our deeds—not as an entrance requirement for heaven but as a determination of heavenly rewards. How amazing it will be for Jesus to look at us and declare: “Well done, my good and faithful servant” (, )!

MELCHIZEDEK Celebrity Priest

SINCE MELCHIZEDEK IS A MYSTERIOUS Bible character, may seem like an obscure passage of Scripture—but it holds great truth. Most surprising for us perhaps is the fact that Melchizedek serves as the capstone of this epistle’s argument for the superiority of Jesus over all things. Up to this point, Jesus has been held up to first-century Middle Eastern readers as being greater than prophets, angels, Moses, and even the entire Levitical priestly system. Now, Melchizedek is offered as the final example in the book’s “from lesser to greater” argument for the ultimate superiority of Jesus.

Also surprising is that even though Melchizedek is mentioned in only two passages in the Old Testament (; ), first-century Jews of all kinds were intrigued by him. In fact, he is mentioned in just about every genre of early Jewish literature from that time—usually accompanied by fantastic, supernatural stories about him. For example, an entire scroll from the Dead Sea Scrolls speaks of his being a divine angelic savior. So when the writer of Hebrews uses Melchizedek as the final comparison with Jesus, he gets everyone’s attention because Melchizedek was a literary and mythical celebrity.

Melchizedek was a literary and mythical celebrity

Melchizedek was a Canaanite priest—a monotheist who believed in the Most High God. Though he was great enough that the father of Judaism, Abraham, acknowledged him as his superior, Melchizedek was still a man who lived and died. Jesus, on the other hand, is described as one who has “the power of a life that cannot be destroyed” () and in whom we now have “a better hope” (). Further, Jesus “lives forever” () and saves completely all those who trust in him ().

Even the greatest celebrities and mythically fantastic characters fade and eventually disappear, as did Melchizedek. Only Jesus exists forever; only Jesus can save us completely; only Jesus intercedes for his followers for all eternity. Therefore, our trust in him is well-founded; he is indeed our surest and only true hope in times of suffering.

UNNAMED HEROES God’s Hall of Faith

EIGHTEEN PEOPLE ARE MENTIONED BY NAME in , also known as “The Hall of Faith,” but there are many more who are included without being named (, , ). What do they have in common? They all believed that “God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him” (). Further, the vast majority were ordinary, obscure people who lived their lives of faith in mundane places, usually with little or no notice from the world at large. Yet the impact of their faith had ripple effects even centuries later in God’s providential plan.

These faithful followers of the God of Israel all died without having received what was promised to them in this life. Despite their difficult, seemingly insignificant lives, they continued to believe that God saw them. They believed that God governed the world and would ultimately make things right. In fact, the writer of Hebrews says, “They were too good for this world” (); God “had something better in mind” () for them—as he does for us, too.

They were too good for this world

Let that thought sink in. God considered these unnamed people—little known in their own time and still unknown today—“too good for this world” but with treasures in heaven waiting to be inherited on the last day.

Can you see yourself in this great company of saints? Your life may seem insignificant by all the measures of worldly power and influence. But God does not do things the way the world expects. He humbles the proud and mighty and exalts the lowly and despised. God sees your suffering, and because he chose to be incarnated as a human being, he feels your pain. And in his divine plan, he will reward you as you believe that he is real and holds a place for you in heaven because you trust in Jesus as your Savior. Believe this promise of God as so many have before you. These unknown saints of old are part of that “huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith” (), and they are cheering you on in your race. Run on by faith!

IRIS Rich in Faith

JONI AND KEN TADA MET IRIS while on a Wheels for the World trip to deliver wheelchairs and Bibles to Cuba. The frail-looking fourteen-year-old girl had brittle bone disease. Earlier that morning, her mother had pushed her down the long dirt road in a rickety old adult-sized wheelchair with flat tires. Iris sat quietly as she watched others receive wheelchairs. She watched all day without smiling, as if she wasn’t certain her turn would come, or perhaps she doubted the team would have a wheelchair that would be better suited for her needs.

Perhaps God has made the poor of this world to be “rich in faith” precisely because they have so little

As it turned out, Iris was delighted with the sleek and streamlined little turquoise-colored wheelchair she was given. But she was even more delighted by another gift she received that day. She gasped with joy when Joni handed her a copy of the Bible in Spanish—the first Bible that she could call her very own. Ken flipped open to the book of James, and Joni asked Iris if she’d mind reading a verse aloud. Iris began reading and didn’t stop at one verse. She continued through the entire first chapter. Physical therapists and mechanics put down their tools. Tears welled up in their eyes as everyone listened. It was clear that Iris was far happier with the gift of the precious Word of God than with her much-needed new wheels.

Perhaps God has made the poor of this world to be “rich in faith” () precisely because they have so little. What they do have, they treasure—like Iris with her first Bible. The psalmist says, “How I delight in your commands! How I love them!” (). Is the Word of God a place where your spirit dwells? Are your prayers peppered with verses from the Bible? Do you prefer the Scriptures over other things? Paul says that “faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ” (); therefore, rich faith comes from continually studying his Word.

JENNIFER BARRICK Living in the Word

ON NOVEMBER 5, 2006, while returning home from church, the Barrick family’s car was hit head-on by a drunk driver who was going over 80 miles per hour. Jennifer Barrick, then age fifteen, suffered multiple traumatic brain injuries and skull fractures. After spending five weeks in a coma, Jennifer struggled through many months in rehabilitation, relearning how to do simple tasks such as using a toothbrush and tying her shoes. But Jennifer never forgot the Scriptures she had learned. God’s Word powerfully comforted her during a long recovery period and also had a tremendous impact on everyone who spent time with her.

The onset of a long-term disease or chronic disability can bring with it a set of unique fears: What does the future hold for me, my family, and others I love? Can I still be useful to God? Does God still care about me?

John describes a powerful dynamic for dealing with such fears: God’s love for us was demonstrated by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross (); we respond by placing our trust in him and his love (). As we grow in our life with God, our assurance of his love for us is deepened. As that assurance deepens and expands, there is less and less room for fear. Indeed, when fully grasped, God’s “perfect love expels all fear” ().

If you want to defeat the fears that plague you, grow in your understanding of God’s love for you

Jennifer overcame her fears about an uncertain future by constantly reminding herself of God’s love and promises. She also experienced the Lord’s care through the love of her family and church community, who came alongside her during her difficult recovery. Today, Jennifer still has mental and physical challenges from the accident, but she is an inspirational speaker.

If you want to defeat the fears that plague you, grow in your understanding of God’s love for you. Trust in his love, and learn to love others with the same love that he has shown to you.

BILLY GRAHAM Nearing Heaven

ONE OF THE GREATEST EVANGELISTS OF OUR TIME is battling Parkinson’s disease in his elder years. In his late nineties, Billy Graham endures constant debilitating tremors, stiffness of his joints, and loss of movement. Much like the apostle John on the island of Patmos, Mr. Graham has left behind the crowds that once followed his ministry and were transformed by his preaching of the gospel. Reflecting back, both men wrote about how humbled they felt to have been called to proclaim the truth: Jesus Christ came to earth to bring hope to a dying world and would return someday to claim his own.

Heaven is a glorious, perfect, and joyous place filled with activity

In his book Nearing Home, Mr. Graham writes about John’s revelation of heaven, describing it as a glorious, perfect, and joyous place filled with activity. God’s people will be there with their perfect heavenly Father, free from the burdens that define life in this fallen world and able to worship God perfectly—with no limitations.

The man who advised presidents and heads of state across the globe came from humble beginnings on a North Carolina dairy farm. At age 15, he made a personal commitment to Christ and was ordained as a minister five years later. The Billy Graham crusades began in Los Angeles in 1949 and offered people an invitation to accept Jesus as Savior. The song “Just as I Am” became the crusade theme as well as the title of Graham’s first autobiography published in 1997. While millions heard Billy Graham preach and his books topped bestseller lists, today he stands with those who have suffered the loss of health, loss of mobility, and the loss of loved ones—especially his beloved wife, Ruth. Yet even with his current afflictions, Billy Graham is still an example for all who strive to finish well the race that God has set before them (). He looks forward to the time when all pain and suffering will cease, and he will enjoy the presence of his heavenly Father together with all of God’s people.

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