I remember sitting in a boring grade 11 math class and feeling quite sure the material I was struggling to learn was useless and a complete waste of my time. What possible situation would ever require me to know all those formulas?
But I did learn something valuable in those classes. Even though I didn't enjoy or fully understand the purpose of the task, I was developing life skills like discipline, dedication, perseverance, and commitment. I was even learning a systematic, logical approach to solving problems.
Reading the Old Testament can be similar. Struggling through some of the lesser–known passages and the long prophetic oracles may seem to have little relevance to everyday 21st century life.
-
Well, life has shown me that the Old Testament has several important purposes. First, the New Testament is based on the Old Testament. The imagery, principles, and metaphors are predominantly rooted in ancient Hebrew concepts. Study of the Old Testament is the key to understanding the New Testament.
Take for example the scene of Jesus at Jacob's well in John 4. John was using an image from Genesis. When Jacob was found at the well, a fair maiden and bride-to-be was only a few steps away. It is not surprising that during the scene of Jesus at Jacob's well, he too meets a woman and her life is changed by an encounter with Jesus.
Or take the images in Revelation. Most of the imagery, like that of the olive trees, is based on metaphors used by prophetic writers throughout the Old Testament. Without an understanding of the Old Testament archetypes, Revelation is impossible to understand.
-
Second, the Old Testament reveals the character of God. We encounter the justice and wrath of God and learn that He requires holy living from us. We see the loving grace and redemptive power of God and realize He is patient, desires relationship with us, and redeems our situations for His glory. God is revealed as creative, powerful, and personal, among many other attributes. And we encounter this God when we read the Scriptures.
-
Third, the Old Testament has transformational power. What does this mean? The message of the Old Testament transcends time, geography, and culture. It speaks to everyone, everywhere, in every situation.
There may not be a story addressing how you should respond to the kid who stole your running shoes, or if the latest blockbuster movie is OK to watch, but you'll find that the heart of your life situation is addressed. The Bible characters faced a lot of tough situations and we can learn from their responses.
Scripture often speaks directly to my circumstance. When I feel hesitant or discouraged in my service to God, I read about Jeremiah and the other prophets, and remember that bringing God's message isn’t always easy or popular. It requires faith and courage.
When I think of the needs in my life and feel overwhelmed, I think of the Israelites standing helplessly, fearing annihilation, with Pharaoh's army behind them and a large body of water in front. Reading about the great miracles God performed for them, I am reminded that God can do the same for me.
There are times when I feel lonely, and I remember the stories of Hagar and Tamar (Genesis 16 and 38). Just like God reached out to Tamar and gave her the desire of her heart, and met with Hagar in the wilderness, calling her by name, I know that God hears my heart's cry and the Lord will meet me in the moment of my greatest need, too.
You've probably heard the words from Jeremiah: “‘I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (29:11). Think about it: God has a plan for you.
Or, consider the promise of God in Deuteronomy 31:6 to never leave us or forsake us. No matter how abandoned or betrayed you may feel, God will never leave you. The Lord is always close at hand, to help, reassure, strengthen, and love you.
When we take these words seriously, they change our lives. The next time you read your Bible, keep reading until a particular verse causes reflection or stirs your heart. Parents, share these verses with your kids and explain how they help you. Encourage them with verses that apply to their situations. Meditate on the Word of God and your kids will begin to do the same.
Do you want God to speak to you? God has spoken to you! And we are blessed with the opportunity to read these words every day.
