The book of Exodus chronicles the Ten Plagues God used to convince Pharaoh to “Let My people go” (Exodus 5:1). He wasn’t anxious to lose all that free labor, but God’s Word had promised release (Genesis 15:13-14) and His promises are Yea and Amen.
Brought to fear and trepidation with the Red Sea before them and the Egyptian army behind them, they again experienced the mighty hand of God as He parted the waters and they were able to cross on dry ground, then witnessing those same waters consume Pharoah’s army.
God gave them a “pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night” (Exodus 13:21) to lead them in addition to food and water sufficient for the multitude of people. Both provisions out of nowhere and nothingness.
And, yet, they grumbled and complained.
Are we so different?
God has shown Himself to us many times over – both corporately and individually. And, still we argue amongst ourselves. We grumble and complain. And, as a result, we are destroying ourselves from the inside out. Our laziness and entitlement attitude is like a cancer that eats away at our lives both individually and as a nation. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 says, “He who shall not work, shall not eat.”
In 1961 President John F. Kennedy gave a speech in which he said, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” But, when Congress did away with the draft, our society began to crumble.
As we remember those who sacrificed life and limb to protect our freedom, as we mourn the loss of loved ones this Memorial Day, may we also take time to pray for our country. We’ve wandered in the desert long enough. It’s time to drink the living water (John 4:10) and be – not grumbling – but grateful.
“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
“Pray without ceasing…” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Let us not neglect to pray for our country…
Every day is “Memorial Day” to some of us.
My friends, who I served with and now live in my memories, thank you.
The home of the free, because of the brave.
Amen. I’m so grateful my mom, Martha, taught me gratitude, even in the midst of pain. I’m grateful for you!
Beautiful!
Amen! Well said. Gratefulness is most important.
Phil 2:14 and 1 Thes 5:18 stand out.
Phil 2:14 and 1 Thes 5:18 stand out.
Well put!!