What does it take to be a hero? What makes a hero heroic? The word hero does not appear in the Bible, but safeguard does, yet only once. In I Samuel 22:23 (KJV), David assures Abiathar the priest that, if he stays with him, he will safeguard him. Even though the Bible does not contain the word hero, many of its characters embody heroic qualities. David would certainly be considered heroic for killing a lion or a bear as a teenage shepherd and slaying a giant with a few rocks. Samson, too, is often seen as a hero, given his incredible feats of strength, such as killing a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey. There are many Bible characters to choose from when considering who might be deemed a hero.

Ezra stands as a remarkable figure among Bible heroes, embodying courage and unwavering dedication to God. As a priest, scholar, and teacher of the law, he led a group of Jews from captivity in Persia back to Jerusalem in 458 BC, determined to institute religious reforms. Faced with the daunting task of rebuilding a nation fallen into apostasy, Ezra taught God's commandments, reinstated holy days, sacrifices, and offerings, and even dissolved mixed marriages that had proliferated among the Jews. Before embarking on this mission, Ezra's faith was tested. While still in Persia, he boldly proclaimed to King Artaxerxes that the hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, yet he later regretted his pride when faced with the dangers of the journey. At the river of Ahava, realizing the perils of crossing enemy territory without an armed escort, Ezra faced a profound dilemma. Requesting military protection could undermine his representation of God and jeopardize future Jewish returns to Judah. Responsible for nearly 6,000 people, the Temple treasures, and the morale of his company, his decision weighed heavily. Ezra chose to put his full trust in God, calling for a three-day fast to seek divine protection and direction. With humble prayer and fasting, the company crossed the river and journeyed seven hundred miles over four months to Jerusalem. The hand of our God was upon them, delivering them from enemies and ambushes along the road. Ezra's preparation was key; having prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, to do it, and to teach it in Israel, he proved his faith through strong conviction and decisive action, standing as a powerful example of trust in God amidst trials.

The heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews endured to the end by holding a vision of the future as a daily reality. They conducted a cost/benefit analysis, concluding that the benefits of eternity made their costs insignificant. Like Christ and Paul, they saw their burdens and afflictions as light compared to the eternal rewards awaiting them. This vision enabled them to persevere, recognizing that the sufferings of the present are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed.

Recognizing God's presence in our daily lives is crucial for enduring trials and maintaining faith. Consider Job, a man who faced unimaginable hardships yet remained steadfast because he could see God working in his life from a young age. Despite losing his wealth, servants, and all ten of his children in a series of devastating events, Job did not lose faith. He endured further trials, including severe physical pain from boils covering his body, and even faced discouragement from his wife and false accusations from his friends. Yet, because Job could see God working in his life, he maintained his faith and endurance through these overwhelming challenges. Similarly, the apostle Paul accomplished great things despite numerous troubles because he could see God in his life. Even when weighed down and despairing of life itself, Paul moved forward with confidence and faith, recognizing God's hand in rescuing him. He understood the cycle of faith: the more one prays and studies, the more one sees God working, which in turn fuels the desire to please Him and continue in prayer and study. Both Job and Paul exemplify how seeing God's presence enables us to face trials and remain faithful, encouraging us to look for Him in our own lives during good times and bad.

In the journey of faith, we look to the examples of Bible heroes who endured trials and testing under God's guidance. Abraham, the father of the faithful, faced immense tests, leaving his country at God's call and trusting in the promise of an heir, which was fulfilled with Isaac's birth after many years. His faith was further tested in a profound way, yet he remained obedient, showing us the depth of trust required in our walk with God. From Israel's exodus, we see a people tested over a lifetime, witnessing miracles like the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of manna, yet only Caleb and Joshua entered the Promised Land due to their steadfast faith. Their story reminds us to be cautious lest we fall, as many did through complaint and disobedience despite God's direct presence. Rahab stood firm in faith against her city's opposition, risking discovery to protect God's spies, demonstrating courage in the face of danger. Gideon, though the least in his father's house, stepped out with only three hundred men to free Israel from oppression, trusting in God's command. Barak followed Deborah's summons to overthrow Sisera, showing that faith often requires bold action. Jephthah, despite a life of rejection and obscurity, defeated the Ammonites as God directed, rising to judge Israel. Samson, after a tumultuous life, ended his race in a way that glorified God, teaching us that redemption is possible through faithfulness. David endured a life of wars, court intrigues, and personal flaws, yet remained faithful in love and obedience to God until the end. Samuel judged a rebellious people, staying true to his calling despite their rejection of God's rule. The prophets faced hatred and death for proclaiming truth, illustrating the cost of standing for righteousness. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, as a minority faithful to God, braved the fiery furnace, while Daniel faced the lions' den, both showing unyielding trust in God's protection. These accounts from Hebrews 11 reveal that God's people are always tested, not just in dramatic ways but through perseverance in truth and righteousness. Their lives encourage us to endure, grow, and overcome, trusting in God's plan as we prepare to serve under the direction of God the Father and Jesus Christ.

In the long history of God's people, sacrifice has been a constant, exemplified by many Bible heroes who gave up much to follow God's way. Abel and Enoch both gave their lives for God's truth. Noah sacrificed many years and his reputation to build the ark, losing relationships with relatives and friends under the waters of the Flood. Abraham sacrificed his home in Ur to live in tents and was willing to slay his heir, Isaac, the son of promise, demonstrating supreme sacrifice among God's people as the father of all those who believe. Moses, learned in the wisdom of the Egyptians and mighty in words and deeds, had education, position, wealth, and the prospect of becoming the next King of Egypt. Yet, he refused the title of son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt, for he looked to the reward. Throughout the Bible, judges, kings, prophets, apostles, and lay-members alike had to abandon their carnal plans and aspirations in this world to walk a different path, one of the Spirit, following a purpose that others could not see.

Among the captivating stories of faith and courage, we find the remarkable accounts of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, known also by their Babylonian names Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These young captives in Babylon demonstrated extraordinary faith in God, with Daniel facing death in the lion's den and his three companions enduring a blazing inferno. Their unwavering trust in the great God empowered them to overcome immense trials, standing as towers of faith for all to emulate. Another figure of profound dedication among the children of Judah is Mordecai, whose life and actions in the king's palace in Persia are detailed in the book of Esther. Though less recognized than Daniel and his friends, Mordecai's lifelong commitment may have played a crucial role in preserving the nation of Judah during captivity. Unlike the dramatic, singular events showcasing the faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Mordecai's story reveals a steady, day-by-day faithfulness, patiently living God's way without growing weary. Mordecai served as a mid-level government official in Shushan, sitting within the king's gate, and acted as a diligent father to his cousin Esther, who had lost her parents. He instilled wisdom, tact, humility, and grace in her, commanding her respect and obedience even after she became queen. Mordecai's protective nature continued as he advised Esther to conceal her Jewish identity and checked on her welfare daily, even after her selection as queen. His loyalty extended to uncovering an assassination plot against the king, though he received no reward for his vigilance. Despite facing injustice and the rise of his enemy Haman, who sought to exterminate the Jews, Mordecai remained steadfast, refusing to bow to Haman due to his primary loyalty to God. When a decree for the Jews' destruction was issued, Mordecai mourned deeply, yet his response to Esther during this crisis reflected his enduring philosophy of persistent faithfulness, urging her to act for their people's sake. His life exemplifies a patient endurance in living God's way, a model of unwavering commitment through daily challenges.

In exploring relationships through Bible study, notable friendships emerge as powerful examples. Among these are Abraham and Lot, whose story is familiar to many. Equally significant is the bond between David and Jonathan, son of King Saul, which showcases deep loyalty. Another profound relationship is that of Jesus Christ and Joseph of Arimathea. Though the Bible provides limited verses on Joseph, these scriptures reveal substantial detail about his character and actions. Joseph of Arimathea, a rich man and a disciple of Christ, played a crucial role after His death by providing his own tomb for Jesus' burial, fulfilling a prophecy from Isaiah 53:9. Despite being a member of the Sanhedrin, the council that condemned Christ, Joseph is described as a good and just man. He awaited the Kingdom of God, anticipating the reign of the promised Messiah, yet he remained a secret disciple due to fear of the Jews. Alongside Nicodemus, another secret disciple, Joseph took down Jesus' body and prepared it for burial. Joseph's actions at a critical moment, when others stood at a distance, demonstrate his courage. Stepping forward to claim Christ's body, he publicly declared his allegiance, likely at great personal cost to his position and wealth. His example challenges us to evaluate what competes for our devotion and to choose to honor Christ above all else. Like Joseph, we are called to wait for the Kingdom of God, to come out of our sins, and to sacrifice what we value to serve Him.

Jephthah, a Manassite from Gilead, emerged as a significant figure among Bible heroes despite his challenging beginnings as an illegitimate son forced into exile by his half-brothers. Living as a vagabond and soldier of fortune in Tob, he gathered a band of outcasts and built a reputation as a brave and brilliant military commander. When Ammon raided Israel, particularly Gilead, the elders sought his help, eventually granting him command of their armies and leadership over Gilead after negotiations. Facing war with Ammon, Jephthah attempted peace negotiations as required by biblical law, but when rebuffed, he marched against them. During this march, he made a solemn vow, and with evident divine favor, he secured a complete victory over Ammon. Tragically, upon his return, his only child, a daughter, was the first to greet him, leading to profound grief as he faced fulfilling his vow. His daughter, showing remarkable resolve, agreed to the vow's fulfillment, requesting only two months to mourn her virginity before it was carried out. This act, commemorated yearly by the women of Israel, reflected her significant sacrifice, likely dedicating her life entirely to God rather than facing death. Jephthah's character reveals a man of patience and consideration, not rashness. He carefully negotiated his position of power, recruited and trained an army, and thoughtfully approached battle. His vow, possibly misunderstood, was structured to account for either a human or animal meeting him, indicating a dedication to God rather than a literal burnt offering. The grief surrounding the event stemmed from cultural values around family and lineage, as his daughter's dedication meant the end of Jephthah's family line, a source of deep sorrow in Israelite society. Recognized as a hero of faith, Jephthah's story underscores the seriousness of vows and the importance of total devotion to God. His daughter's willing sacrifice serves as a powerful example of selfless commitment, reminding us to uphold our own commitments with unwavering dedication.

The real story of Moses, the true prince of Egypt, emerges from the pages of the Bible as a powerful testament to God's providence. Unlike the distorted portrayals in films, Moses stands as a central figure in the Exodus, used mightily by God to lead the children of Israel out of bondage. God had been orchestrating events for at least 400 years, as He prophesied to Abraham that His people would suffer under a foreign nation before being released to enter their own land. Through Moses, despite the ups and downs of his journey, God worked to fulfill His purpose, ultimately delivering His people from Egypt. Moses, considered God's greatest prophet outside of Jesus Christ, confronted Egypt at the height of its power, an empire stretching from Ethiopia to the Euphrates River. As a mere shepherd, having spent forty years in the wilderness, Moses faced a mighty, warlike, and wealthy nation with only the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as his strength. Born around 1525 BC under the reign of Thutmose I of the 18th Dynasty, Moses' life was shaped by divine intervention from the start. Despite an edict to kill Hebrew male babies, revived by Thutmose I due to the growing number of Israelites, Moses was saved and placed strategically to be found by Pharaoh's daughter. This woman, identified as Hatshepsut, Egypt's greatest queen and later Pharaoh, played a pivotal role in Moses' life. Defying her father's command, she adopted Moses, raising him as her son with the potential to become Pharaoh due to Egyptian succession through the female line. Hatshepsut's reign was marked by peace, prosperity, trade, and advancements in art and architecture, yet her ambitions for Moses to ascend the throne were thwarted when he killed an Egyptian at age forty, around 1485 BC. This act led to her political downfall and Moses' flight to Midian, where he spent forty years as a shepherd, learning humility and becoming the meekest man on earth. During this time, Thutmose III, known as the Napoleon of Egypt, expanded the empire to its greatest extent. Upon his death around 1450 BC, Amenhotep II took the throne, a fierce and proud ruler who matched the unyielding Pharaoh described in the Bible. Moses, now eighty years old at the time of the Exodus in 1445 BC, returned to face this formidable king. Through God's power, Moses brought Egypt to its knees with the plagues, each targeting the strongholds of Egypt's gods, culminating in the death of Pharaoh's firstborn son and the drowning of much of the army in the Red Sea. Egypt was devastated, losing wealth and power, taking generations to recover. The real story of Moses, facing and overcoming the mightiest empire of his time through God's strength, stands as a profound example of faith and divine purpose, far surpassing the fictionalized accounts of Hollywood.