Happy Friday, everyone! On Tuesday, Mr. Matt mentioned that his post was the first time he’d done one. Not only is this the first post for me, but also for using this technology, which I don’t understand, as usual. As a Boomer, I can’t use my devices for all they were intended (as Sunday’s virtual meeting showed), but if you ever need your VCR programmed from 12 to 36 channels, I’m your man.
These days I’ve been reading the Book of Judges. What a sad and violent time it was. Almost everyone knows the stories of Gideon, Deborah, Samson, and finally Samuel. But as I’ve been reading I am struck with several thoughts, two of which I’d like to share this week.
First, the carelessness of Samson which led to his defeat (see Judges 13-16). Samson had such potential, and every advantage someone could hope to have; godly parents, great strength, position of influence, the assurance of God’s Spirit being with him. He knew he was being used by God for a special purpose, and he knew what expectations were upon him, but it seems he just didn’t care. He went to the wrong places, hung with the wrong people, and did the wrong things; and assumed there wouldn’t be a consequence. How wrong he was! And when his life was lying in ruins, he finally turned to God. God most certainly can and does turn situations around, redeems people’s lives, cleanses from sin and forgives. But better yet to not know the damage, heartache, and sorrow that comes from forgetting God who has purchased us.
The second thought is the fact that Israel, God’s people whom He had delivered from slavery in Egypt and sustained for forty years in the Wilderness, had turned away from Him to worship idols. From the living God to a lifeless statue. And when Israel would finally come to their senses and return to God, it was usually a short time until they turned away from God again. They just didn’t learn their lessons and repeatedly had to deal with the consequences.
So, these days as we are forced to stay home and adjust to a new reality, remember whose you are. We are the children of the Living God, adopted through the blood of Jesus. Give this day to Him. Let Him speak to you today. Obey Him today. Love Him today.
“Choose today who you will serve. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Joshua 24:15
Well, I’m done rambling for now. Hope to see you Sunday. Remember, it’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming!
In His Service,
David Stawick
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