One Year Bible - February 16
Scriptures to read:
Hebrews 11:23-40; Exodus 15; Proverbs 6:1-7:5
When I have encountered an extremely dangerous situation, my perception of time slows down. I can recall many moments, including one dreary morning when I was forced to lay my motorcycle in a commute to work. A complacent driver’s actions required me to let go of my motorbike on the highway, breaking into a slide across 101. I can still remember the grinding noise enveloping my senses as my helmet dragged across the asphalt, the sound of cars passing me as I came to a halt, culminating with an air horn from a large semi truck blocking traffic, notifying me all was well.
It’s only in these times of incredible stress and anxiety that I can thoughtfully consider the mental condition of the Jewish people as they fled Pharaoh’s armies through a miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. They had narrowly escaped death, and promptly entered into a time of rejoicing. “The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” (Exodus 15:2). The Jewish people had just made it, and they rightfully thanked God for the miracle he provided.
As I stood on the side of the road, I was amazed at how quickly life returned to normal. Once again, commuters bustled northbound to San Francisco. No carnage to see or twisted metal to block their route, all while I celebrated God’s provision. The next day I was consumed with my new circumstances of a broken wrist and a broken motorbike, and feeling dissatisfied for the foreseeable future. It took the Jewish people slightly longer to regress into discontentment. Only 3 days after they sang praise to God for delivering their entire people from genocide, they complain to Moses of thirst and despair, inevitably to be cared for again.
Unsurprisingly, I find more commonality with the Jewish people than I would like to admit. Moving from miracle to discontentment in a matter of hours or days, just to watch God show up again and again. Instead of being surprised by God’s miraculous work in my life, I would like to one day confidently state that I expect it. Until then, join me in thanking the Lord for never failing to care for his people.
Memory Verse: In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling. - Exodus 15:13
Prayer: I thank you Lord for the miraculous work you have done in my life, and I repent of my lack of faith. I trust that you hold my safety in your right hand.
