He gave laws to the people of Israel and commandments to the descendants of Jacob. He instructed our ancestors to teach his laws to their children, so that the next generation might learn them and in turn should tell their children. In this way they also will put their trust in God and not forget what he has done, but always obey his commandments. They will not be like their ancestors, a rebellious and disobedient people, whose trust in God was never firm and who did not remain faithful to him.

Psalm 78:5-8

The people Moses led out of Egypt cried hot, salty tears that left streaks on their windblown faces. Their hearts pounded when they were scared. Their hearts hurt when they were tired and hungry. The vessels in their necks bulged when they were angry. Their eyes watered when they laughed. The people of the Bible were real. Ask God to make their experiences come alive for you, so we can learn from their examples.

People from the past can give us pointers for the present.

Our Daily Bread – August 9, 2002