Romans 15:4-5

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope and overflow with confidence in His promises. Now may the God who gives endurance and who supplies encouragement grant that you be the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus. 

The Bible portrays lives like ours, with people making similar decisions. It shows the successes and failures and teaches us what is right and what fails. We can gain hope and encouragement and learn from others’ struggles. It shows the hand of God extended toward His people whom He loves