When reading the bible, what do you look for? Prophecies? Revelations? Instructions? Or are you just checking off your to-do of the day?
Sometimes we read the same thing over and over again and each time discover something new; have you ever compared yourself to a bible character? Or felt like you resembled one?
I’ve done this many times and it’s refreshing to see similarities from another perspective. Not all similarities are positive though; what do you do when you discover negative attributes you share with a bible character?
I’ll be discussing a few people today and I hope we can learn from their lives.
1. David
David was born as the youngest son in the family of Jesse in Bethlehem. He started out as a humble shepherd, taking care of his father’s flock. God chose him and had him anointed by the prophet Samuel, not because of his position or strength, but because of his heart. As a young boy, David showed great faith when he defeated the giant Goliath, and he later became a skilled warrior, musician, and leader. Years later, David eventually became king of Israel and united the nation. He was a passionate worshipper who wrote many of the Psalms and led his people with courage. However, David also fell into serious sin, including adultery and deception. Yet, when confronted, he repented sincerely and returned to God. In the end, David is remembered not as a perfect man, but as a man who deeply loved God, trusted Him, and always turned his heart back to Him.
2. Ruth
Ruth was a Moabite woman whose life is marked by loyalty, love, and quiet strength. After the death of her husband, she chose to remain with her mother-in-law Naomi rather than return to her own people. This decision meant leaving behind her home, culture, and comfort to follow the God of Israel. In Bethlehem, Ruth worked humbly in the fields to provide for both of them, and her kindness drew the attention of Boaz, a man of honor. Their marriage placed Ruth directly in the family line of King David and, generations later, Jesus. Ruth’s story shows how steadfast love, faithfulness, and trust in God can lead to redemption and purpose.
3. Daniel
Daniel was a young man taken from his home in Judah to live in Babylon, yet he remained faithful to God in every circumstance. Even in a foreign culture with pressure to compromise, Daniel stayed committed to prayer, integrity, and obedience. He served under several kings and was known for wisdom, excellence, and a spirit of humility. When a law was made to stop him from praying, Daniel continued to seek God openly, leading to his being thrown into the lions’ den where God protected him. Throughout his life, Daniel showed that faithfulness does not depend on surroundings, power, or comfort. His story is an example of how one should stand firm in conviction, trusting God through every challenge, and living a life that reflects God’s character no matter the environment.
4. Mary
Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a young woman from Nazareth whose life changed when God chose her to carry and raise His Son. Though the calling was unexpected and came with social risk (especially in that time), Mary responded with trust and obedience, saying, “Let it be done to me according to Your word.” She welcomed God’s plan even without fully understanding it. Mary lived with quiet strength, nurturing Jesus, standing by Him throughout His ministry, and remaining present even at the cross. Her life reflects faith that is humble, steady, and surrendered. She reminds us that God often works through ordinary people who are willing to say “yes” to Him, even when the path is difficult or uncertain.
5. Peter
Peter was one of Jesus’ closest disciples, bold and passionate in his desire to follow Him. He left his work as a fisherman the moment Jesus called, and he often spoke and acted with zeal. Yet, in a moment of fear during Jesus’ arrest, Peter denied even knowing Him. This failure did not end Peter’s story. After Jesus’ resurrection, Peter was forgiven and restored, and he became a foundational leader in the early church. His life shows that even sincere believers can stumble, but God offers grace, restoration, and purpose to those who return to Him with a genuine heart. Peter’s journey is one of imperfect courage, honest repentance, and renewed calling.
6. Jonah
Jonah was a prophet in the Bible, called by God to deliver a message of repentance to the people of Nineveh. Initially, he tried to run away from God’s command, boarding a ship in the opposite direction. A great storm arose, and Jonah was thrown overboard, swallowed by a giant fish, and remained in its belly for three days and nights. After praying and repenting, he was vomited onto dry land. Jonah then obeyed God, went to Nineveh, and saw the people repent, which spared the city from destruction.
7. King Saul
Saul was the first king of Israel, chosen by God for his leadership and stature. He started off humble and promising but struggled with obedience to God’s commands. Despite early military victories, Saul’s pride, jealousy, and disobedience led to God rejecting him as king. He became tormented by fear and paranoia, especially toward David, and his reign ended tragically in battle.
8. Judas
Judas Iscariot was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. He is most known for betraying Jesus to the religious leaders for thirty pieces of silver, which ultimately led to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. Though he had followed Jesus and witnessed His teachings and miracles, he still allowed greed, to lead him to make a tragic choice. Overcome with guilt afterward, Judas took his own life instead of asking for forgiveness.
Which of these bible characters sound familiar? Do you recognize yourself in any of them? How would the world describe you?
It’s funny how some of these characters can be described with both positive and negative attributes while other characters are so unique that finding a good trait in them is difficult.
Do we like what we see in our lives? If no, how do we plan to change this?
Go back to God, read your bible, obey His word and allow the Holy Spirit to transform your hearts.
Stay Blessed x
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