The Pivotal Moment
THE BIBLE is a biographical book. In its pages are the historical details of numerous people. We read about things said in private between two friends. We read about the inner thoughts of man; thoughts that the person in mention probably assumed would die with him. We read about details of the workings of Hell, Heaven, and God’s court. Can you believe that we read about the LORD’s conversations? Everything living or created in fractional pieces or whole are included in God’s book. The omniscient and omnipresent Author tells a thorough story. Some could argue, as readers, we violate the privacy of these persons through an invasive curiosity. No one is the blame— consent has been given by their Creator who does whatever He pleases (Ps. 115).
Have you noticed that there are no details of any character’s story from start to finish? Each biblical character is summarized. Although the Bible is biographical, it never conveys an autobiographical level of insight. We read of Moses’s anger with Israel, but we don’t know the root of his reaction. We know nothing about Jesus, but only the last few years of His life. Elijah is introduced to us abruptly. Peter has no rhyme or reason to his behavior. I can belabor the point, but panoramically speaking the point is clear. There are moments in each person’s life which proves to be titanic to their destiny. We may live a long life or a short life, but it is that one particular decision, in that one particular season which will summarize your life. Howard Thurman, the great theologian says, “It will take a lifetime to determine if a choice was a mistake or not.” The pivotal moment can be overt or subtle. Better to notice it and prepare with a prayerful response than to not notice it and emotionally react.
“So don’t be too good or too wise! Why destroy yourself? On the other hand, don’t be too wicked either. Don’t be a fool! Why die before your time? Pay attention to these instructions, for anyone who fears God will avoid both extremes.”
