Guidance from Overlooked Men and Women of the Bible
I posted this picture a year ago, and I’ll post it again. I love the way this young man is experimenting, even though we know things won’t turn out well. Why not try something new this year, even if you’re not sure of the outcome?
The world is waiting for your good, and not so good, ideas.
The Nativity by Federico Barocci, 1590
Copyright ©Museo Nacional del Prado
Mary, following days of arduous travel while carrying an unborn child, then giving birth in a barn, and then hosting a crowd of awe-struck shepherds, still held to her focus on her son. Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Maybe only a new mother can maintain such devotion?
Today, with all that swirls around us, take a few moments to treasure the birth of our Savior and ponder the reality of God becoming man. Understand this is reality, not a fairy tale. Such truth is worthy to remember and to let guide our enjoyment of this Christmas day and the year to come.
We always remember Charles Dickens at this time of year for his story called A Christmas Carol, with Tiny Tim and Scrooge and all the ghosts of Christmas. There is not a better ending to a story than when Scrooge awakes from his dreams and realizes that he has not missed Christmas morning! As Scrooge begins to make things right after many years of disregard for his fellow man, we see the good one person can do for another.
In Dickens’ mind our faith should move us to aid those around us, and his writing reflects this idea. The selfishness of Scrooge and Marley and their love of money dooms them to an eternity chained to their money box. How much better an eternity formed from generosity and love toward our fellow men and women? This is a simple story with profound meaning, one that continues to resonate though time. Personally, I prefer the movie version starring George C. Scott as Scrooge.
Jesus takes us to a similar place when he encourages us to “do unto others as you would have them do to you,” and to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Generosity knows no season, it never fades nor wears out. Lighten the burden of another this holiday season and you’ll be putting the words of Dickens, and Jesus, into good practice.
Wealth. Mark 10 lets us overhear a conversation Jesus held with a rich young man. It’s not surprising that today, just like then, we have rich people among us whose wealth keeps them from fully following Jesus. What might surprise us is how much those rich people look just like us.
Jesus brings up both rich and poor in this story. Which category do I fall into? More on the rich side than the poor. I am absolutely wealthy in comparison to the rest of the world. If you’re wondering where you stand, check out this website: Global Rich List. Your eyes will open.
But does my wealth keep me from fully following Jesus? I have a feeling that it does. Jesus asked this young man to sell everything he had, give it to the poor, then come follow Him. Could I do such a thing? I really don’t think so, but Jesus has not asked me to do that. Not yet.
Jesus is ever challenging. It amazes me that the words of a Jewish teacher from 2,000 years ago still resonant in our lives. His words still push and bother and compel us today, which is remarkable and wonderful and most of all, hopeful.
Stories to encourage you with the leadership experiences of overlooked men and women of the Bible. Their lives will inform your story, and move you to step out and lead.
This book contains reflections on the Lordship of Christ, the Great Commission, and a life of adventure and eternal significance. Read this book and you won't be able to sit still!
© 2026 Dave Dishman
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