Back In the Saddle

Hello all! I had planned to take a little time off from my writing this summer, but it turned into an extended vacation! My boys and I thoroughly enjoyed our eight day road trip to New York. Check out my facebook page to see the pictures. I must say I’ve really missed my interactions with you through my blog. I’m ready to get back at it!

I love the story of Moses’ journey to the Promised Land. Receiving the Ten Commandments from God had to be one of the highlights of his 40 year journey. There are so many lessons to be learned from Moses and his million or so traveling companions. It’s easy for us to read the story and think: I would have done that differently; I would have had more faith; I would have been happy not to have to worry about making dinner for 40 years.

REALLY?

I often wonder if God were to take a group of Christians today on a journey like theirs, how would we fare?

* Would we wait patiently while God conversed with His chosen leader about the direction we needed to go?
Not likely. Most of us get impatient waiting in a long line at the grocery store.
* Would we have made an idol to worship while we waited?
Probably. We make idols every time we elevate our possessions above our relationship with God. Heck, we’ve even made idols of people who can sing well and have good stage presence.
* Even though God would take care of our every need, would we still complain and decide it was better the way it used to be?
Probably. Our society has taught us to rely on ourselves to make things happen. With this mentality, there’s no room for God.
* Would we complain about not getting to go shopping for new clothes?
Likely. That Macy’s sales flyer tempts us every time it comes in the mail.
* Even though God would supply our food and water, would we complain it wasn’t enough?
Definitely. Our society has brainwashed us into thinking we need to super size every meal to get enough.

Honestly, I don’t think we would act so differently than the Israelites acted. They complained and complained and complained. Their complaining stirred God’s anger. We do the same. And I would bet complaining still stirs His anger. I wonder if we really realize the impact our complaining has on our lives?

Reading through the book of Exodus again has given me a new resolve to pay attention to the amount of complaining that comes from my mouth. I am striving to do better in this area of my life.

Will you join me?

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