reflection leading to
revelation
Stephen emphasized the Israelites’
actions in order to help his accusers recognize they are of the same ilk as
their fathers. We could try to excuse
ourselves as not being Jewish, but looking at underlying principles behind the
actions it’s unlikely we would be found innocent.
Do we
reject people, (as they initially did with Moses), on the basis of our own
judgments, perceptions and small understandings? –God works and delivers anyway—showing that
it is He Himself at work. God gives
instructions. Do we receive what He has
to say and obey? Is our heart turned toward or away from God?
The Lord
gave the Israelites over to their own desires which would have ultimately led
to their own demise. But something
interesting happens that Stephen does not mention. Read Deuteronomy 9:24-29 to find out. (It was
_____________________)
In His
mercy, God gave His wayward people a focal point which emphasized His
holiness: the tabernacle. He gave them the tablets and the Law to help
them enjoy His good will and intentions for their lives. Both the place of worship and the
instructions were important to help instruct wandering people and to keep them
well.
Even so,
they seem to persist in self-direction.
Are we like them?
- Rejecting people who speak clear hard truth
- Rejecting people we don’t expect to be helpful to us
- Seeking tangible, immediate, comforts rather than patience
- Acting as if the gifts are the ultimate things, and serving them
- Exalting self, and rejoicing in personal accomplishment
- Choosing not to obey what we know to be true.
How much better it is to follow in the footsteps of Moses,
Stephen and others like them:
- Obeying instructions
- Forgiving others
- Interceding for those who are living/doing like the Israelites
- Trusting fully in God’s goodness and waiting for Him
Read and Pray: Romans
10:16-21, Proverbs 29:18, Ephesians 1:17-19
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