Some of the greatest stories you will ever read are found in the Bible. Think about the Old Testament stories: Creation, the fall of man, the great flood, the tower of Babel, the adventures of the patriarchs, the Egyptian captivity, the plagues, the exodus, taking the Promised Land, and the exploits of the kings and prophets.

Then consider the great stories recorded in the New Testament: the birth of Christ, the miracles of Jesus, the parables that Jesus told (including all-time favorites like the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan), and the remarkable experiences of the apostles and the early church.

These are just some of the biblical stories that many of us have heard all of our lives. We learned them in Sunday school. Our parents taught them to us. We have read and re-read them many times. Hopefully the timeless truths taught in these stories have become ingrained in us and have helped form us into the people that God wants us to become.

The great stories of the Bible are critical to our Christian life. These stories lead us away from paths that lead to destruction and steer us along the road to heaven. These great stories from God’s Word not only teach us about God and his wonderful plans for us. They also give us hope in a world that is desperate for hope. They inspire us to become all that God has created us to be. These stories encourage us to take action and to, somehow, become a part of God’s Big Story to save mankind through the death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus Christ.

Let’s not underestimate the power of great stories. Great stories tell us of a great God who does great things for his people. Great stories remind us of the great power God gives to those who believe in him. Great stories inspire ordinary people to do great things for the Lord and his kingdom.

So, let’s read these stories over and over again. Let’s share these stories with others as we try to win people for Jesus. Let’s use these stories to encourage other Christians as they face difficulties in their lives. Let’s apply the lessons of these stories as we help other believers grow in their faith.