Scripture tells of GOD’s miraculous
rescue of the Israelites from 400 years
of slavery and domination in Egypt. Even non-believers are familiar with the account of GOD parting
the Red Sea for Israel’s safe cross-over while the Pharaoh’s army
perished. Finally Israel would claim the Promise Land. Except, they
never made it beyond the desert wilderness. Why? In the face of all that GOD did to protect
and provide for them during the journey out of Egypt, Israel refused to trust
His sovereignty and providence.
The Lord went ahead of
them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided
light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by
night. Exodus 13:21
“Don’t be afraid. Just
stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today
will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Exodus 14:13-14
GOD’s record with them was perfect but Israel’s first and only response at the first sign of trouble
was to complain and murmur and show ingratitude and defiance against GOD. Never
a thought to seek Him first, never a show of faith and trust in the Almighty
GOD. This lack of wisdom and a desire to endure along with the GOD who loved
them best cost them the Promised Land. GOD’s long-suffering patience gave out and He forbids them entry.
Unfortunately, the following Old Testament (OT) narratives show
that their descendants learned nothing from the elders’ experience. The negative
behaviors continue with them deteriorating to idol worship and a total
dismissal of GOD’s commands until He removes His protection, allowing their
enemies to conquer the Promised Land and enslave Israel one again in exile.
What is the take-away for where we are in our history today?
We read Israel’s story and shake our heads in puzzlement and
dismay and judge them harshly for their sense of spiritual entitlement,
ingratitude, and just plain arrogance.
But how about our own attitude towards GOD when we face difficult
times? Like now? Could it be mirroring
Israel’s? Are we behaving like people with whom GOD hasn’t had a perfect
record? Are we remembering our many escapes and victories back when and
praising our Rescuer, or are we focusing only on today’s light and momentary
affliction? Are we complaining, murmuring, lacking courage and faith? Are
we refusing to believe that GOD is able and His promises are sure?
If this is where you are, take a step back and ask yourself
the question Moses put to Israel on
one occasion of their murmurings, “Is
the LORD among us, or not?” (Exodus
17:7)
A grateful heart
protects you from negative thinking. Thankfulness enables you to see the
abundance I (Jesus) shower upon you daily. “JESUS Is Calling Devotions”
Author, Sarah Young
To be continued…
Prayer and Thanksgiving: Our gracious and loving Father, YOU are
GOD Almighty, able to do above and beyond what we can ever ask for or imagine
for ourselves, if only we would believe. Remind us to seek YOU first and stand firm
and endure with the confidence that YOU are with us in good times and in bad. Forgive us
for thoughts and behaviors that are unworthy and negative and that's sinful in Your sight. Do
not judge us as we so deserve but give us mercy and abundant grace to endure.
We give YOU all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise, and we pray all
things in JESUS’ Mighty NAME. Amen!
Always by God’s Word and prayer,
Cecile
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