Psalm 95, Numbers 13:25 - 14:4

David Kramer considers the consequences of unbelief



Continued from page 1

  • The demolition of the gods of Egypt through the ten plagues

  • Deliverance from slavery and escape from Egypt (the place of captivity)

  • Escape on dry land through the Red Sea immediately followed by witnessing the complete destruction of Pharaoh and his army in the very same sea

  • Being led by a pillar of fire by day and cloud by night and the supernatural provision of food and water in the wilderness

  • God's wrath followed by His immense patience and mercy when they both complained and rebelled on several occasions

Therefore, when they reached the border of the land God had promised to both take them to and give to them, it was more than reasonable for Him to expect them to recall all His works on their behalf and conclude that it was not His way to deceive them, let them down, lead them to destruction, or fail to keep His promises.

But they didn't (yet again) and this time it was to cost them very dearly indeed. They were not allowed to enter and enjoy all that God had so lovingly planned, prepared and promised them.

What about us?

What works have you and I experienced, seen and/or heard about and celebrated and rejoiced over and even enthusiastically told others about?

Hallelujah - that's wonderful - but we cannot afford to stop there! We need to recall and go back over those events, miracles and divine interventions and ask, "What do I need to take from these things?" - "What can I learn from them about the ways of my Father?"

Otherwise, when we meet the next challenge or obstacle, or hear Him call us to a new level of faith, we will (like Israel) believe the false report of the enemy and not the true report (see Numbers 13:25 - 14:4).

From Father's perspective rescuing us from Egypt (salvation) - absolutely vital though it is of course - is where it starts, not ends. He longs for us to live in ALL that He has prepared for us and promised to us.

So, let's be determined to celebrate and enjoy every miracle (work) of God, but be even more determined to use those experiences to grow in understanding His ways. He wants us to truly live in all the fullness of the kingdom He has made available to us, rise to every challenge, overcome every obstacle and truly take back the land that is rightfully both His and ours.

You see, miracles aren't the problem and neither is God - guess that only leaves me! CR

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