In reading the Psalms this weekend I came across Psalm 78:9 which says that: “The children of Ephraim, being armed and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle.” They walked away from God’s covenant and His law. Further, they forgot all that He had done in the past for them.
I could not help but think how often do we, “turn back in the day of battle?” These were God’s people who were equipped. If you have chosen to follow Jesus Christ, you are also a part of God’s people, His Army, which is fully equipped.
What battle do you face? Is it physical, emotional, mental or spiritual? Whatever your battle, know that you are equipped to press through. The key lies in keeping the covenant of God and walking in His law. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His basic moral code does not change. Yes we are under grace but that grace never extended to living against His moral code. Sadly, this has become fashionable today even in Christian circles.
If you place any other god or idol (idols include addiction of alcohol, drugs or sex) in your life before God; if you dishonor God’s name; if you fail to keep the Sabbath holy; if you dishonor your parents; if you commit murder or adultery (even in your heart…for it is always a heart issue); if you desire or steal on any level what belongs to another; or if you talk about people (gossip), you have walked away from Him and His Way.
The children of Ephraim sinned even more against God by “…rebelling against the Most High in the wilderness. And they tested God in their heart.” (v18) If you are in a wilderness situation do you test God in your heart? Remember, He sees the heart. Do you question whether He can bring you through and shift whatever is pressing you?
“Yes, they spoke against God: they said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?” (v19) Check your heart today, for it is always a heart issue. Are you questioning His grace? Are you questioning His power and might? Are you questioning His unrelenting faithfulness? Are you questioning His ability? Are you questioning the Most High?
Repent today. Forgive yourself and others. Step back on the narrow road for the time is so very short and much evil lurks on that wide road. Reestablish your personal covenant with God. He can set a table in the wilderness!
For it is written:
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be the glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
