Patterns

The Bible makes it clear: God has made each person unique. God has given us unique personalities, with unique interests, and resources. He has placed us in unique families and called us to individual journeys through life. He has given us specific missions to accomplish, and He guides each person in special ways.

At the same time, He provided all of us with principles and patterns that are true for everyone, in every generation. The Bible is full of these principles: Truths that can guide us, and help us avoid problems, experience more blessings, and find fulfillment. Through His Word and history, we are given countless characters and stories, provided to help us see patterns at work.

Paul described how God provided examples to warn and instruct us, as well as to admonish and equip us (1 Corinthians 10:6-11). As we examine these patterns, we see how events have unfolded in the past. We can study how people acted, and review the results in detail.

As we look back through history and the Bible, we can see that “there is nothing new under the sun.” The same kinds of opportunities and reactions. The same kinds of temptations and choices. The same patterns that led to success, and failure. We see people make the same kinds of mistakes, draw the same kinds of conclusions, and follow the same kinds of paths.

We learn what is effective and what is ineffective.

Today, ask God to give you insights into the principles found in the Bible. Ask Him to help you see principles that apply in the situations you face. And always stay rooted in His timeless, unchanging Word.