Neville Turley

“By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: ‘He could not be found, because God had taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.  And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”  Hebrews 11:5-6 (NIV)

The lives and actions of people who walked by faith are enshrined in the 66 books of the Bible. Those who have had central roles in God’s relationship with humankind are featured in great detail, others merit just a passing mention.

In this month, before we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, it would be good to look at the lives of some of the lesser known personalities featured in the Bible. There is much we can learn from them that can be of value in our own walk with God.

Enoch is revealed as one who walked with God.  You will find his life story documented in Genesis 5. He was 65 when his son Methusaleh, with whom his name will be forever associated, was born.

Methusaleh became the oldest man who ever lived.  He was 969 years old when he died.  Despite the many years Methusaleh was spared, he died before his father. Enoch himself never died. God’s word puts it so well: "Altogether Enoch lived 365 years, Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.” (Genesis 5:23-24)

Walking by faith always pleases God. Whenever our Lord Jesus met a person with faith, it filled him with joy and he commended that faith. Christian faith means walking hand in hand with God along life’s way. It is for this that Enoch is commended. He lived a life of faith.

We should follow his example and do the same.  Let it one day be said of us what the Bible says of Enoch: “He pleased God”. There can be no finer tribute paid to one’s life and witness.

Prayer: Almighty God, enable us through the Holy Spirit to live a life of faith pleasing to you.  Hear our prayer for Jesus sake.  Amen