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How to Do a Life Message Study

The Bible is full of stories. True stories of real people. Romans 15:4 tells us that these stories were written down so that we might learn from them: “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

One way to explore the lessons of Bible characters is through a Life Message Study. The following acrostics provide the outline.

Look for the MESSAGE in the Bible character’s life:

M  Meaning of his/her name

Use a Bible dictionary or encyclopedia to find out the meaning of the person’s name. What is the significance of this person’s name? In what ways does he or she live up to the meaning of the name?

E   Experience of the man/woman

What was this person’s life experience? Who were his/her father, mother, tribe, and nation? When did he/she live? What are the significant periods of his/her life? What about his/her occupation, contemporaries, or associates?

S   Spiritual life

What do you observe about this person’s prayer life, obedience, suffering, personal lessons from God, attitudes, responses, and reactions? What growth or maturity do you see?

S   Shortcomings

Do you observe any weaknesses in this person’s life? What reasons would you give for the presence of these weaknesses?

A   Accomplishments

What strengths do you see in his/her life and character? Are there any key or unique phrases used in describing this person?

G  Glory to God

How is God honored through this person’s life? Are there any particular attributes of God that are especially revealed through this life? What is this person’s concept of God, and how does he/she relate to Him?

E   Essential truth

What is the main character trait you see exhibited? What can you learn about this characteristic from his/her life?

 

After discovering the MESSAGE, apply it to your LIFE:

L   Leading lesson

What do you think is the leading lesson of this person’s life?

I    Impact on your life

How does the leading lesson impact your life? What specific changes do you need to make to become a person of like character—or to avoid following a negative example?

F   Future plans

What specific action do you plan to take to grow in (or avoid) this character trait?

E   Express obedience

Write out a prayer expressing to God your desire to be obedient in this area of your life.