There are so many distractions that can keep us from God. There are also false prophets, feel good spirituality, and non-believers that do what they can to entice us away from our faith. It’s been going on like this for a long time. Moses had to warn his people to be careful not to go astray. God would not be pleased. I was also surprised to see that Moses told them, “the Lord your God is testing you to see if you truly love him with all your heart and soul.” I certainly don’t want to fail the test. Do you?
We do need to be careful. I, for one, don’t want to displease God. Yet, there isn’t a moment that goes by that I’m not falling short in some way, shape, or form. What is helpful, is to realize I’m not alone. Many people over the ages have struggled with temptations. You know the old saying, “the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” Have you ever had that sense?
What sorts of things are likely to lead you astray? Signs and wonders? A trusted friend or relative asking you to join them at a revival of some new preacher in town, known to be a little “woo woo”? A decree from government? A famous person’s testimony? A compelling book that comes highly recommended?
So how do we stay strong? Especially in these days of isolation when it feels like the world is closing in, that there is no where “safe” to turn, and that everyone is racked with fear. It is now, more than ever, that we need to cling to God, the one true God, who loves us and protects us. He has not left our side. He is well aware of our struggles, our concerns, our sadness, our feeling of desperation. He feels it with us.
Moses talks of the harsh punishment the people should inflict on people who try to deceive. I’m thankful we don’t see that type of retribution happening today. We do see Christians being persecuted for their faith, however, and that is beyond tragic. Interesting we don’t see the deceivers being destroyed.
To not go astray, like sheep we need a shepherd. But unlike sheep, we are smart human beings. We still need a shepherd. We have Jesus. We have the Holy Spirit inside us. We have the protection if we call upon it and cherish the power we have. Think about that for a moment. It might take your breath away just a little to realize that the God who created all that is loves you. Protects you. How are we responding to that kind of love?
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me for falling short of all you desire for me. I realize your love doesn’t depend on what I do. I know that there is so much more to this journey than obedience, but it makes me feel good to please you. I hope you don’t mind. Yet there are times when I feel alone and unsure. Help me to trust more and be quiet more so I can hear your voice. In Jesus’ name. Amen.Amen.
