Have you ever stopped to think about the characters in your life story? Those people who have made a profound impact, whether for a moment or over the years? 

I was a guest on the Redemption's Table Podcast, where we discussed the characters in our faith journey and how God meets us. It was such a great conversation, and it got me thinking about the critical people in our lives who have helped shape our faith.

First off, let's talk about my parents. They had a rough start to their marriage and battled alcoholism, but they never gave up. They showed me how to overcome obstacles and pull a family together.

Then there are my in-laws. They stepped in at the right moment and showed me what a healthy faith, marriage, and relationship with God look like daily. Their unwavering love and dedication to each other and their faith inspire me daily.

Janice was another character in my faith journey. She took a lost young guy and attempted to point him to God and call him out on his B.S. Her faith and willingness to help me helped frame who I am today.

Cliff was another person who showed up unexpectedly and dropped some hard truths on me when I needed them most. He prayed with me and gave me a ride back to the border of Mexico. It was a moment that changed my life forever.

And let's remember the young lady who followed the Holy Spirit's prompting and picked me up while I was hitchhiking. She didn't have to do that, but she did. She showed me the love of Christ in a very tangible way.

Last but certainly not least, there's my wife Tabby. She's been my best friend, motivator, and support system throughout my entire journey. She's believed in me when I didn't believe in myself and has shown me how to be more joyful and compassionate. I thank God every day for bringing her into my life.

These are just a few of the characters in my faith journey. They all played a crucial role in helping me find my way and grow my faith. And that's the thing about faith - it's a personal journey. It's not about fitting into a predefined box or copying what someone else has done. It's about being open to the characters that God places in front of us and allowing Him to work in and through us.

It's easy to get caught up in the busyness and stress of life, but if we're always at odds and working in anxiety, we'll miss the amazing relationships that God has placed in our lives. So take a moment today to reflect on the people in your life who have helped shape your faith, and thank God for them. And be open to the characters that He brings into your life in the future. You never know how they might inspire and guide you.

Which brings me to Ecclesiastes. I love this book because it's so honest and authentic. Solomon, who had everything at his fingertips, realizes that without God, everything is meaningless. And really, what else is there? Sure, we can pursue money, success, and pleasure, but in the end, none of that will matter. We find true purpose and meaning in life only by knowing God and keeping His commands.

So, I encourage you all to be open to the characters in your faith journey. Whether it's your parents, in-laws, friends, or a random stranger, listen to what they say and see how God might use them to guide you. And remember, faith is not one-size-fits-all. It's about your personal journey and conversation with God.

How can we find and connect with the characters in our faith journey? Here are a few tips that have worked for me:

1. Be open and attentive. God has a way of putting people in our path for a reason. It could be a chance encounter with a stranger, a conversation with a coworker, or a deepening of a current friendship. Whatever it is, be open and attentive to who God is placing in your life.

2. Listen and learn. Everyone has a story, and everyone has something to teach us. Take the time to listen to others and learn from their experiences. They may have insights and wisdom that you've never considered before.

3. Be vulnerable. It's okay to admit that you don't have all the answers. In fact, it's essential. When we're open and vulnerable with others, we create a safe space for them to be vulnerable with us, and we can grow and learn together.

4. Pray. Ask God to reveal the characters that He wants to bring into your life. Ask Him to give you the courage and discernment to recognize them and be open to what they say.

If you have read my books, please leave a brief review on Amazon.

Sobering Faith - reviews: www.geraldzgabay.com/sobering-faith-reviews

Opening Up - reviews: www.geraldzgabay.com/opening-up-reviews