A Post of Praise

It’s time for a post of praise.

I’ve been humbled and convicted lately as I read again about the Israelites. 

They had God’s visible presence in a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. 

They were directed about when to move and when to stay. 

The way was prepared before them, and God’s presence guarded them from behind. 

They had their daily food literally raining down from heaven. 

They had every need provided for, and every cry heard by their Maker. 

And yet... 

They continually complained. 

They begged to return to slavery. 

They desired different food, a different place to live, and different boundaries. 

They were enveloped by discontentment and frustration with their circumstances. 

Yes – they were often wandering in a desert on their way to the promised land. 

Yes – they were often surrounded by people who hated them. 

Yes – they had many daily challenges and rules to follow.

Yet they had the assurance of ultimate success with God on their side. 

They had the only One that could bring lasting fulfillment and joy. 

They were possessed by Love Himself. 

They had all they needed – but they didn’t believe it. 

--- 

Oh how often I am guilty of these same things... complaining, discontentment, begging to return to the known, desiring something different than what I’ve been given, enveloped by the challenges of my circumstances. And yet...

I have been given ALL I need.

I have the power and presence of the God who made me continually surrounding me. 

I have my Maker continually guiding me – whispering truth and love into my ears and heart. 

I have my daily food provided – physically and spiritually. 

I have the Spirit of God preparing the way before me, and guarding me from behind. 

---   

Oh Father, my Redeemer, Savior, and Gracious Lord,

Help me trust You! 

Help me truly know and believe that You have given me all I need – and that You always will.

Help me rest and rejoice in Your provision. 

Fill me up until overflowing with your peace, joy, and presence. 

And when my emotions lie to me, help to listen to You instead. 

When my circumstances feel bigger than me, help me trust Your grandeur. 

When all I see is the desert, open my eyes to see the land you have promised. 

When I’m tempted to complain about the food You’ve given me, help me to instead THANK YOU for Your gracious provision.

So here I build another altar.

I climb onto it and bow. 

Here I am. ALL of me.

Make me a living sacrifice Lord. 

Make me whole, that I may follow you wholly.