As in the preceding psalm, there is a lot of remembering going on. Today, 
we have concrete examples of how God, though burning with anger and disappointment, continues to rescue and love his children. As a parent, I can relate to being angry with the kids for their behavior, yet loving them completely at the same time. How many times magnified that would be for God with us.
The stories of the Israelite’s disobedience always astound me. Why should it, really? Isn’t the theme and pattern still alive and well today? Don’t we, collectively as a society, ignore all the blessings we receive from God and grumble? Maybe we grumble about our jobs. Maybe we grumble about the weather. We are always wishing for it to be “better.” We should have a heart of gratitude. Right?
God was angry with them. He wanted to destroy them! Moses had to step in as their advocate. Don’t you think he, too, was probably at the end of his rope? After all, Moses had witnessed God do so much for these people, and yet they were so forgetful and ungrateful. And then, God relented.
We have Jesus to stand up for us. Jesus has paid the price. We are free in Christ. Let that truth just sink in a little. We are free!
Now, reread the psalm. After imagining our own rebellion, and Jesus stepping up to take our place of punishment, how do you feel? Does the psalm take on a new, fresher meaning? Is your perspective readjusted, or is it just me?
God isn’t just in the Bible. He is for us, here and now, and forever.
Let’s pray. Father God, forgive me when I fall short and displease you with my actions or inactions. Forgive me when I forge ahead without giving heed to your leading. Help me to be still and to wait on you. Unlike the Israelites, I trust you and want to follow you. Help me not to grumble but to enjoy every moment of each day you have given me. Make me a better mom, wife, friend, and most of all, disciple. Guide my life, my business, my family and may I be a shining light for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
