Moving Forward
Have you ever read the story of Moses leading God’s people out of bondage and slavery in Egypt. It is an amazing journey. I am fascinated by the struggle of the Israelites, as well as, the redemptive plan that is in motion. God’s hand never leaves His children.
When I think about Moses and how bravely he stood up against Pharaoh, I try to picture me in his shoes. You know what I am talking about. This great leader doing amazing things just like in the movies. It is very exciting! Looking cool standing there shouting at Pharaoh!
The problem with that is, truthfully, I feel much more like the Israelites than a great leader. Maybe if you are honest you do as well. Yes, God has saved me. Yes, He has freed me from being trapped in addiction and the darkest depression. Hallelujah!
But there was something comfortable about the prison I had built. It was full of pain and regret and at the same time I knew what to expect. With knowing what to expect came a small level of comfort. I was comfortable in the familiar no matter how broken it was. Have you ever been there? I was reading in Numbers chapter 11; these are words I have read before and never thought much about, but suddenly jumped off the page.
“Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” (Numbers 11:4-6)
Just the thought of seeing God do one miraculous thing after another. Remember, the folks are not slaves anymore and their food is coming from heaven. At the same time they are looking back, remembering the past, and wanting to return to the familiar. I can identify with that. I am guilty of that. Wanting the fish and veggies but not thinking about the chains and bondage that comes with those “comforts”.
It is a continuous battle! If Satan can keep us living in the past, thinking about fish while missing the miraculous in front of us, he is winning. Saints, we are free in Jesus. Our thinking must reflect that freedom. Instead of remembering the rabble in our past, we must focus on the safety found in Jesus. “The Lord is a mighty tower where His people can run for safety.” (Proverbs 18:10) Look forward towards where God is leading and be confident in your future in Jesus.