TaNaK Tuesdays

One of the things I most love about the Old Testament is the consistent amount of failure of its heroes. For most people, if you want to look at someone in a heroic light, then you cut out all the mistakes made. However, the Scriptures do not do this, it shows the mistakes right there with the successes. For instance:
Noah got drunk in his tent and his boy saw him naked.
Abraham lied about Sarah being his wife not once, but twice.
Moses struck the rock in anger.
Gideon was guilty of idolatry.
Samson was stupidly seduced by a woman.
David basically raped a woman and then when she got pregnant, he killed her husband.
Elijah pouted about Jezebel.

Yet,
Noah was chosen by God to replenish the earth after all the evil happened.
Abraham was the father of Jewish people and a friend to God.
Moses was chosen to lead God's people and he was a friend to God.
Gideon was used by God to tear down an evil altar, lead 300 men, and save Israel.
Samson was used by God to defeat the Philistines and restore the Israelites.
David was a noble king of Israel and had a heart after God.
Elijah was a great prophet who was taken away in a chariot of fire.

So, this day, this very day. Work hard to do what is right, spend time with the Lord, and forgive yourself of any mistakes you have made. After all, Christ forgave you. Do not fall into the trap of condemnation, rather be honest about your shortcomings and work diligently for the Kingdom. Those who acknowledge their failings, but continue to strive in their relationship are the true heroes of the faith.