Mary: An Average Woman with Extraordinary Faith
The New Testament character of Mary is known for her obedience, humility, and faith. She was an average young woman who had no idea what God had in store for her life!
Our world desperately needs models worth following. Authentic heroes. People of integrity whose lives inspire us to take God seriously, to follow His Word obediently, to pursue Christ passionately.
Thankfully, the Bible places before us a spiritual "hall of fame"—raw, uncensored, gritty stories of men and women sometimes soaring, often stumbling, through the incredible life of faith. They wrestled with sin, experienced God's grace, struggled with weakness, and overcame by faith. Their inspiring biographies have been memorialized in Scripture, not simply because of their faith in God but because of God's faithfulness to them.
These great lives from God's Word not only provide realistic portraits for appreciation but also relevant principles for application.
The New Testament character of Mary is known for her obedience, humility, and faith. She was an average young woman who had no idea what God had in store for her life!
The Old Testament character of David is known for his passion, humility, and faith. Although he was a man after God’s own heart, David made many mistakes in his life, mistakes God redeemed, giving us hope that our mistakes can also be redeemed.
Esther, a courageous and obedient queen, dedicated her life and actions to the Lord and He used her to save a nation. Through her story we learn how to face life’s difficulties with grace and trust Him to make things right in the end.
Moses, a leader and profit who was meek and dedicated to the Lord, teaches us through his life story that where you start is not where you end up, with God’s help, and failure is never final.
In the Old Testament, Abraham was known as the "father of many nations” and a “friend of God.” He had a deep relationship with the Lord and followed His guidance even when he didn’t understand it! Let’s learn a bit more about this remarkable man.
Everyone has weaknesses and flaws, even Bible characters. They were real people just like us. It’s encouraging to know God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
Discover how Nehemiah handled this failure as you listen to Pastor Chuck Swindoll’s message on Nehemiah 13. The ancient leader’s gracious, prayerful, and firm example remains relevant as a helpful standard for us today.
When Nehemiah finally completed the reconstruction of Jerusalem’s wall in Nehemiah 12:27–47, the Israelites met the accomplishment with hymns in praise to God. After decades of darkness, the people could see that God truly was moving among His people! Find joy with Pastor Chuck Swindoll as he demonstrates how the secret to happiness is continual trust in God.
An orphan girl who grew up to be a Queen—Esther was an extraordinary person who saved the entire Jewish nation. Though she lived thousands of years ago, her humility, grace, and courage make Esther an inspiring and relevant role model for women today.
Nehemiah 11 recognizes the “willing unknowns,” a special group of people who served a vital function in Jerusalem but never saw their names in lights. We will consider also our own sacrificial service and learn to appreciate those who work behind-the-scenes in our homes, workplaces, and realms of leadership.