Professor Daniel Taylor notes that as a child Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a Christian leader who was executed for resisting the Nazis, was greatly moved by reading a book entitled Heroes of Everyday. It was filled with stories of courageous young people who, with selflessness and clear thinking, often saved others' lives, sometimes at the cost of their own. And, apparently, shortly before his execution, Bonhoeffer was also reading Plutarch's Lives, a book that explores the courageous character of ancient figures. Based on Bonhoeffer's example, Taylor asks:

"Can we doubt that Bonhoeffer's reading shaped his acting, including his decision to risk his life to save others? Ethics are more formed by the stories with which we surround ourselves, than [just] by the rules that are drilled into us. Tell us what stories you value, and we have a good start on knowing who you are and how you will act in the world."

"Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth."  John 17:17 (NKJV)

The scriptures contain so many stories about other people; their lives, their struggles, their mistakes, their spiritual "leanings."  What stories resonate with you, and which do you find yourself gravitating towards when you open the Word of God?  Let me challenge you to take a few moments today and think about that question.  God's word contains life-changing stories that can help us to deepen our walk with our awesome God.