A SENSE OF HISTORY

As I looked round the British Museum, I was struck by the history and legacy contained in the massive place. I looked at things that were centuries old, reminding me how valuable it is to have a sense of history. History gives us a record of people’s plans, mistakes and consequences that can help us make wise choices as we learn from both the successes and
failures of those who have gone before us.

Paul also saw the value of learning from history. He warned about making bad choices by retelling the story of the children of Israel and their journey through the wilderness—a result of their refusal to trust God and enter the Promised Land (SEE NUMBERS 14). Then Paul told the Christians in Corinth, “These things happened to them as examples and were written
down as warnings for us, on whom the [end] of the ages has come” (1 CORINTHIANS 10:11).

God has given us the Bible partly to help us learn from the history of His people. The biblical lessons give us examples and warnings to guard us against our worst instincts and to lead us into God-centred living. The question is whether we will learn from the lessons of the past or repeat the mistakes of those who came before us.

To pray about . . .

God, teach us from the stories in the Bible. We know You’ve put them there to guide us and give us wisdom. Help us to make trusting You our purpose. Amen.

THE BIBLE TEACHES US TO LEARN FROM THE
MISTAKES OF THE PAST.

YouTh Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries