Israel in the wilderness complained particularly about their "misfortunes" when they could have rejoiced in the blessings of freedom of no longer living under the tyranny of the Egyptian rulers! They did not rejoice in the faithfulness of God to deliver for them, nor for the grace and mercy of God to miraculously feed them manna all the while providing for them water for their survival. Their current state of journey up to this point was only temporary, for they were destined for a place of milk and honey, a land of promise God had given them. There were so many things for Israel to rejoice in, but their eyes were not set on these things, rather their focus was upon their "misfortunes." No doubt they were in a "dry season," for the land they wandered was a desert without vegetation or fruit. But from God's perspective and even their own point of view, it was not their ultimate destination, it was not their permanent home! Therefore when the LORD heard it, He became angry and rightly so!
As I read this I had to consider myself, how often do I find myself in a state of complaint rather than in a place of rejoicing? The truth is that we have so much to be thankful for, but more often then not, we find ourselves more focused on our "misfortunes!" May we repent when we find ourselves complaining out our own misfortunes, and be still, knowing that the LORD, He is God. May we consider His faithfulness above all being focused in the prize of the upward call. As Paul so wisely put it, "rejoice in the Lord and again I say rejoice" for God has given us the promise of life above all the promise of His Son.
1 comments:
Wow Abel- Your blog really hit home about rejoicing in the Lord always. It is good to know that throughout history, God's people complained instead of rejoicing so that we are encouraged that we're not alone. This is a human nature, but it is not pleasing to God. I know rejoicing is a choice. Thanks for sharing. Love, MOM
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