When He slew them, then they sought Him; and they returned and sought earnestly for God. Then they remembered that God was their rock, and the Most High God their Redeemer. (Psalm 78:34-35)
In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul referred to events that transpired after Israel left Egypt, calling special attention to the different times when Israel rebelled against God and then suffered the consequences. He mentioned how they lusted after evil things and turned to idolatry; how they committed sexual immorality and tempted God and, of course, their incessant complaining which opened the door for the Destroyer to have his way with them. In fact, in almost every case, Divine correction meant death for many which, in turn, inspired the survivors to cry out for mercy and seek God’s forgiveness.
Paul’s purpose for referencing the sad history of Israel’s wanderings is summarized in this statement: “All these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come” (1 Corinthians 10:11). In short, we who live in these last days should pay special attention to these mistakes lest we repeat them. The warning is valid because, unfortunately, it is typical of us as humans to ignore the subtle, more gentle nudges God gives to us when we are starting to stray. Too often a change in habit and attitude requires strict and, sometimes, harsh discipline to bring us to our senses. Thankfully, God’s intent is to restore, not destroy.
We would all like to think we are better than those who so quickly abandoned righteousness and gave into rebellion but allow me to point out — Paul warned that any of us are capable of falling into the trap of thinking, “I would never do that.” He said, “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). We shouldn’t think that we are incapable of repeating the same mistakes they made, and knowing this, we should set guards in our life to make sure that we don’t. I would argue that one of those safeguards is acknowledging that “I could do that,” and especially when I am relying on my own strength and ability. Therefore, it is critical that we never lose sight of the One who leads and guides us; never give into the doubt and uncertainty that tries to pull us aside into other pursuits. Seek Him earnestly each and every day and remember that He is our Rock, our Redeemer and the source of our being.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
Recent Comments