For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Romans 15:4 NIV
As Christians, sometimes we are guilty of neglecting the Old Testament, thinking it is not particularly relevant to Christians under the new covenant. But it actually has great value for us as believers.
History has something to teach us if we will only take the time to learn its lessons. And that is especially true of the Old Testament. Paul tells us here that everything that was written in the past, the Old Testament, was written to teach us.
We are all familiar with the stories of Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, and David. They are heroes of the faith who rose from humble origins to be used mightily by God. But how many know of Eleazar, the son of Dodai? His story is told in 2 Samuel 23:9-10. He was a warrior in David’s army. Once in a battle, the Israelite army retreated, except for Eleazar. He stood his ground, and the Lord used him to bring about a great victory.
Eleazar’s greatness was not because he was a mighty warrior. But because he stood his ground, God used him in a mighty way. We can learn from him and many more whose stories we find in the Old Testament. Stories that can encourage us to stand our ground and be used by God. Even when we are standing alone and it seems hopeless.
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