A Godly Hero
Today's Scripture
"How can you believe [in Me], when you [seek and] receive glory and approval from one another, and yet you do not seek the glory and approval which comes from the one and only God?" (Words of Jesus in John 5:44 AMP)
Thoughts for Today
Oxford Dictionarydefines hero this way: "A person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities." Our mind immediately goes to a war hero or first responder or even a person in royalty or politics or some other leadership role who has made a real difference. History records a multitude of heroes through the centuries . . . and today we still have heroes who are making a difference. People who have saved lives or averted disasters, sometimes at a great personal sacrifice. We recognize them and offer them much deserved praise and appreciation.
Enoch was a different kind of hero. We do not know a lot about him. Few details are offered about his life. It does not appear to have been a very adventurous life, but his ways of godliness stood out in an ungodly society, one that opposed him.
We do know this about Enoch. He walked with God. His eulogy is short and to the point. He had a testimony that pleased God.
If he were living today, his press clippings would not be impressive. His testimony probably would not attract thousands to a citywide crusade. It is unlikely he would sign a book contract or be a TV attraction. However, as a godly hero, he did have an adventurous life. He had intimate fellowship with God.
Consider this …
Enoch may have been boring to some and old-fashioned to others. He probably was not a main attraction during his life; however, he no doubt gained much attention when God suddenly took him to heaven. Instead of leaving him to die a natural death on this earth, God simply lifted him from this earth to be with him.
We all need to think about whom we are trying to impress. Are we seeking glory and approval from people? Or do we first care about seeking God's approval? About pleasing him? Enoch was a godly hero because his wanted above all else to please God.
"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do,
do it all for the glory of God: (1 Corinthians 10:31 NLT).
Prayer
Lord, help me not to be a people pleaser or to try to impress others. Help me to try above all else to please and honor you. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Godly Heroes: A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11 by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This guide presents a step-by-step study of Hebrews 11. It also features the profile of the characteristics of Godly heroes, written in language that relates to today's living. In this guide you will find definitions, characteristics and examples of the heroes' faith life. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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