We have all observed or maybe been the participant in younger years the toddler’s temper tantrum. That little one defiantly saying NO, then going into a kicking, screaming, yelling fit in hopes to get his or her own way; right now, the way they want it without regard for anyone else except SELF. Do you ever wonder how God sometimes sees us? Once again I sense He is whispering to my inner ears and my heart:
You have seen my beauty in the mountains, in the valleys and even in the desert. Know that you have beauty when you are on spiritual mountain tops or in valleys, yes, even in spiritual deserts. Rebellion has no beauty because it is not somewhere obedience puts you, but rather SELF.
Look to me for your strength and renewal, daughter.
I have been with you and you shall grow to bloom again. You are loved and understood and cherished by your Lord. There is no condemnation in rest. Refresh yourself in my Word. Selah.
The message in Psalm 46:10
In Psalm 46:10 we are entreated to “be still and know that I am God”. The Lord, through David, then goes on to say that He will be exalted among the nations, He will be exalted in the earth. Let’s look at this for a minute. Does that make sense? That the Creator of the Universe should be lifted up, should be praised and looked up to?
Or would we think that a little one, crawling around and not even able to walk yet should get all that notice and adulation? Pretty easy decision with that picture, isn’t it? We are not our own God. We are not running the show. Some of us know from experience where that can take us when we try to “take over” and call all the shots. Some of us are blessed to even be alive because of the incredibly UN-insightful choices we have made. Enough said.
In Matthew 11:28 Jesus calls us to Him promising rest for all of us who labor and are heavy laden. Isn’t it great to realize that there is one strong enough to handle all our stresses, strains and backpack boulders if we simply call upon Him?
In Psalm 23:3 David is giving credit to His Lord saying He refreshed my soul, He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His namesake. This, too, is taking the burden off us and giving it to Him who is able.
Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft
In 1 Samuel 15:23 we are reminded that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry, and that because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also had rejected you from being king.
This is a pretty strong admonishment. We can easily tell that God wants to lead us and hates us to rebel, that there are consequences if we do, for our safety and for the well being of those around us. Thank you, Lord.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to see into our own hearts and yield to you so we can dwell in Your peace and rest. Allow us wisdom to squelch even the mental footstep towards rebellion and self exultation. Please help us to keep humble hearts and teachable spirits before Your throne. AMEN
