Perhaps because we think of the Bible characters as “saints” or as some select group of people who are totally unlike us, we sometimes forget to consider their emotions. We lift the bare facts from the pages of our Bibles and fail to feel the pain, jealousy, regret, or boredom that these people experienced—just like we would if we walked in their shoes. To truly understand the Bible’s message, we must try to understand the Bible’s people. We have to do “emotional archaeology” to connect with their experiences and, ultimately, with God’s character revealed through their stories.

Have you ever felt like you’re missing something when teaching the Bible? I certainly have. In my journey, I discovered three common mistakes that many Bible teachers make, one of which is “killing the characters.” We often overlook the rich backstories of biblical figures, rushing to application without considering their context. By allowing these characters to “live” in our messages, we can provide deeper understanding and relevance for our listeners. Join me as I explore how to keep the characters alive and enhance the impact of our teachings!

When my kids were little, my greatest fear wasn’t their safety; it was their salvation. I thought it was my job to guide them to the narrow path that leads to life. In a moment of desperation, I even held my preschooler’s hand over a candle flame to illustrate the discomfort of hell. But what I learned through that experience—and the story of Rebekah—is that my attempts to control their destinies only revealed my lack of trust in God. Discover how surrendering control can bring peace and joy, knowing that salvation is ultimately in God’s hands, not ours.

There’s something I do that always compounds my weariness in this race of life: I glance sideways at the person beside me who doesn’t seem to have as much to bear. This comparison drains my endurance and fills my heart with envy and grief. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to run with endurance, looking to Jesus as our example. When I focus on others, I lose sight of my own race. Are your eyes drifting to someone else’s lane today? Discover how to keep your gaze fixed on Jesus and find the strength to run your race.