I have been reading a children’s Old Testament with my kids
at night. They are really quite into it, which makes me happy, though it has
led to some pretty interesting evening discussions –“he did what to Goliath’s head?”
As we were reading the story of the Israelites in the
wilderness, I couldn't help but notice some disturbing parallels to my life. There
the Israelites are: finally free from captivity, heading for a promised land, given
manna from heaven, guided day and night by God, and what do they do? A whole
lot of complaining and messing up.
It’s kind of unbelievable how many times they wish they were
back in Egypt! Really? You mean the
place where you were poorly treated slaves? So, because of their unbelief and
disobedience, they have to wander in the wilderness for 40 years. It is easy to
wonder why they had such a hard time being grateful and following simple
instructions.
But when I really thought about it, I am not much different.
I have been very blessed in my life in every way. Yet, lately, it feels like I
have been spiritually “wandering in the wilderness.” And, like the Israelites, it’s
due to my unbelief. When I say “unbelief,” I don’t mean that I don’t believe. My
belief in God is solid, but if I am totally honest with myself, I have become a
little lazy in actively seeking to be close to Him.
I have found it difficult
to read my scriptures with consistency, and have done more than my fair share of
complaining. I believe that it is possible to feel God’s guidance and peace in
life. I have felt it before. And one of the surest ways to do this is through daily,
meaningful scripture study and prayer.
All of these thoughts led me to decide to start a new
challenge; I am going to read my scriptures every day for at least 30 minutes. I will blog about it as often as possible as a way to be accountable.
So join along if you would like, or just check in to keep me
honest!
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