OCTOBER 18: CHILDREN OF ISRAEL – TEMPT THE LORD

Why is it that during the periods of trials, we forget all of Gods many miraculous provisions in time past? It seems the current challenge just blocks our memory from the past victories. I watched a video of a man joyously declaring that God is good to him, he talked about his past life of how he was neck deep in crime until he was caught and he ended up in jail. While in jail, some missionaries visited and preached to him and since then he has not looked back.

As a result of his life choices, he lost valuable relationships. His wife left him, and he does not have access to his children any longer. I was awed by the display of joy on his face while doing a menial job. He had such a cheerful spirit, which rubbed off on all that encountered him.

Maybe the harder the fall, the stronger the love for God. Why did the children of Israel that had been slaves in Egypt for so many years find every little discomfort a source of anger and complaint? The Bible account of God was that He heard their cry for deliverance, yet they always referred to Egypt as though it was heaven. Vs 3 of our text said they asked Moses – Why have you brought us out of Egypt to make us and our children die of thirst?

Consider the bible verse – He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel. Psalm 103:7 (KJV). Even though Israel was God’s chosen people, they lacked a relationship with him. They did not know his ways but only knew his acts. They behaved as though God was a stranger who just wanted the worst for them. They failed to accept his Lordship over their lives and at every opportunity, doubted him. To the point they asked, “Is God amongst us?” Peradventure they at least feared God; they would not have descended so low as to talk ill of him as they did because of water.

By brothers and sisters, draw closer to God and know His ways. It is only a fair-weather Christian that doubts God in the face of challenges. God said in this world, we will face tribulations, but we should be of good cheer, he has overcome the world. The temporary setbacks of life should not make us consider shipwrecking our faith. We should trust God and know that he is faithful and will never leave us.

Our confidence should be stronger as we mature in our Christian faith. Things are hard; a lot of challenges from economic, to societal and family difficulties, but God is faithful and will come through at the right time.

Prayer:  God, show me your ways and let me hold on to your promises for my life. How can I doubt your love and power over my life? I know you are in control and all things will work out for my good. Just like Daniel, build my confidence up in you to the point that I can declare that even if the Lord does not deliver me, I will not bow to other gods. Let the joy of the Lord in my life draw men to you. Amen