I was vexed in my mind. I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel. (Psalm 73:21-24)
Most of us can identify with what is stated above. When we allow the things of this world to invade our hearts and minds with thoughts and desires that are in opposition to God’s will and purpose, we behave foolishly. Only after we are awakened from this spiritual slumber do we realize that we were foolish and ignorant, or as the psalmist hinted, behaved like a senseless animal.
Harsh words I know but, unfortunately, applicable in some situations. When our mind is continually fixed on temporal things, and vexed to the point that we entertain foolishness, we tend to give into our more carnal instincts. Whether we are being outright beastly, or just childish, the eventual outcome is not good. And while this is definitely not how we desire to behave, the fact of the matter is, there are times when it is the reality. As Paul said, “For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do” (Romans 7:15).
Fortunately for us, even in these undesirable situations, the Hand of God is not so far away that we can’t be plucked out of our dilemma. As Asaph put it, the Lord grabs us by the hand and guides us through every situation and, if we continue to faithfully follow, to victory. Typing this, I can’t help but think of Peter as he attempted to walk to the Messiah upon the waves. It would seem that, as long as he kept looking toward Yeshua, he continued to defy gravity, As soon as he looked elsewhere, he began to sink. But even as he floundered in the waves, growing more fearful by the second, a saving hand reached out to pull him from the danger — and for that, we should all be thankful. May God continue to guide us with His Word and by His Spirit, and may be avoid the pitfalls of foolishness and folly.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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