Sometimes people come together for the purpose of having a heart-to-heart talk; that is a candid and very personal conversation. However, what is the candid and personal message of our own heart to us in the midst of life’s varied experiences. Where we are focused and how we focus — whether it be in trying times or times of great success — it is important that our heart is speaking the right message to us. What’s our heart saying?
As the nation of Israel — with the second giving of the Law — was being prepared for entering the promised land, there were two warnings given which might be considered as two different sides of the same coin. Consider the first where we read. . .
“[17] If you say in your heart, ‘These nations are greater than I. How can I dispossess them?’ [18] you shall not be afraid of them but you shall remember what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt, [19] the great trials that your eyes saw, the signs, the wonders, the mighty hand, and the outstretched arm, by which the Lord your God brought you out. So will the Lord your God do to all the peoples of whom you are afraid.” (Deuteronomy 7:17-19 ESV)
This was after God conveyed to the nation the manner in which He would bring them victory over the nations and would bless them in their labors. That encouragement continued beyond this text. In other words, they were to remember God was with them!
Now, consider the second in the very next chapter — following God’s reminder of how He had delivered them from Egyptian slavery and had safely led and provided for them during their wilderness wandering — the people were provided another warning where we read. . .
“[17] Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ [18] You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” (Deuteronomy 8:17-18 ESV)
Where would any of them have been without the life and strength God had provided for engaging in anything? He was not to be forgotten! In other words, they were to remember due thanks to God!
We also need to remember these two things as they relate to our perceptions of life. When we look to our own resources, we can become fearful. When we look upon our successes, we can become boastful as if it was all by our own efforts. It both cases we need a heart speaking candidly to us: “Don’t forget about God!” As someone has said, “Our experience of success is not the time to feed our pride and ego, but to steady our soul in prayer.” (original source unknown) Let us also consider how in facing challenges seemingly beyond our own personal ability, to also steady our soul in prayer rather than feeding the fear. May we remain mindful we are always living in the presence of God in whom we are to center our faith and our thanksgiving!
Have a great day WITH OUR SOUL STEADIED BY PRAYER!
Carl
