1. His alcoholism embarrassed  his children.
2. He took matters into his own hands and made a mess of things. His son and grandsons often repeated his mistakes.
3. Good things followed him. People followed him. He was important. God used him for good things, but he took the credit.
4. Pride. Pride is the downfall of many men and women. He was no different. He had great potential and even did great things, but his pride lead to an early death.
5. He was indecisive at best and cowardly at worst. He second guessed much of what he was asked to do.
6. He had a physical characteristic that lead him to lose his temper; as a result people died.
7. He was a financial cheat, at least that is what most people thought. It was likely true.
8. His impulsive behavior and unfiltered tongue got him into trouble more times than not.
9. They were quick to judge others and ready for a fight.
10. He was a terrorist responsible for the death of many innocent people.

But they all have one thing in common.

They had their different weaknesses. They were and are examples of a broken creation. Yet God took Noah, Abraham (Isaac and Jacob), Moses, Samson, Gideon, Elisha, Matthew, Peter, James and John, and Paul and used them for His glory in His grand purpose. They were useful to God.

They were broken, but God could and did use them.

Father,

Thank You for showing us the flaws in the characters of Your story. Seeing their flaws and inconsistencies reminds us that although we are not perfect, we can still be Yours. Thank You for perfecting us in Christ. Use us to do Your will on earth.

In Jesus’ Name . . .

Reader, know that God desires you, as you are, to come to Him. You do not have to be perfect for Him to accept you. In truth, you have to be broken to need God and you are broken without Him. He is there (here) for you to take you just as you are and mold you into the image of His Son.

-Scott