Author's Note: Interested readers who missed previous volumes of this series can click here. Good news! Today begins what I call “a series within a series” — an occasional plan to invite VIPs to share their favorite Bible passages with Townhall readers.
When thinking about whom to invite first, the obvious answer was Harry Hargrave, CEO of the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. (FOX News Channel watchers have likely seen the Museum’s TV ad.)
Fortunately, Mr. Hargrave agreed to participate. The format I suggested (and “road tested” below) was to select four passages — two from the Old Testament and two from the New — with a brief explanation about why that scripture is personally meaningful.
Reader feedback is appreciated about this “series within a series” concept. Furthermore, I encourage suggesting names of VIPs to whom I should extend an invitation to participate. In this perilous time, it would be reassuring and consoling to know the scriptures our leaders are turning to for encouragement and perseverance.
Now, let’s begin with Bible passages that provide comfort, hope, and inspiration to the man who leads a world-class museum dedicated to engaging and educating visitors about the Bible — still the most influential and best-selling book of all time.
Old Testament:
Isaiah 40:31, “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Harry Hargrave: This vivid, poetic passage speaks of life being a process of casting our cares and needs upon God with patience. And in due time, He will guide us and reward us in a manner which has blessing beyond our expectations.
Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
HH: God has a purpose and plan for each of our lives. The worst thing that we mortals can imagine, for our present and future, is to lose our life or for a loved one to be lost to death. But because of what Jesus did for us on the Cross, the “sting of death” is removed, and He has “finished it,” as referenced in John 19:30.
However, while we are still present on earth, the Lord provides us with hope, direction, and expectation, as He uses us for His purposes. Hence, He provides us with strength and energy to soar with “wings of eagles,” despite our worldly limitations.
New Testament:
Matthew 6:33-34 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
HH: The passage is a command from Jesus to seek him first every day. “Do His Will” as it is given to us via prayer and Bible study. Even though we are cognizant of opportunities and problems in the future, we need to pay attention to the now — working to solve problems and seeking opportunities in the moment with regard to results hoped for — without anxiety toward the future.
Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
HH: It is no wonder why this passage, written by St. Paul, is among the Bible’s most quoted. We all worry, so he cautions us not to worry about the things of this world. We cannot accomplish much for the Kingdom and our purposes if we are consumed and overtaken with negative thoughts. Therefore, we are instructed to pray unceasingly, in a thankful manner. Only then will we be filled with God’s promises and hope instead of fear. This act is impossible to attain through our own strength — but provided to us through continuous, ever-growing faith in Jesus and the work of His Spirit.
On behalf of Townhall readers, I would like to thank Harry Hargrave for sharing his favorite Bible passages.
Myra Adams is a conservative writer and media producer with numerous national credits. MyraAdams.com She is also Executive Director of www.SignFromGod.org, a ministry dedicated to educating people about the Shroud of Turin. Contact: MyraAdams01@gmail.com @MyraKAdams
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