Psalm 106: Verse 13
But they soon forgot what he had done
and did not wait for his plan to unfold.
I am particularly enjoying the Psalmist’s summary of Israel’s history as he sees it. I’ve learned a lot from it thus far, and today another verse has caught my attention.
Its another reminder of the volatility of Israel’s relationship with God. God moved and the people responded but they soon forgot and did their own thing. God had a plan, for which His timing was perfect, but too often they wouldn’t wait for that plan to unfold. Other Old Testament folks were guilty of doing the same thing. Abraham and Sarah took matters into their own hands instead of waiting for their child of promise. Ishmael was born and this caused all sorts of problems. King Saul wouldn’t wait for Samuel to come, because he was afraid his men would rebel, so he made an unlawful sacrifice to God. In the end his disobedience cost him the kingdom. I’m sure I could list plenty more examples.
Sometimes we might say that by taking matters into our own hands we are just trying to be helpful. Like Saul, we might not even see what we are doing as a sin. But if its not what God has asked us to do, then it is, so we shouldn’t try to kid ourselves.
God knows what He is doing and expects His followers to trust Him. As Christians we need to remember that God doesn’t need a helping hand. He’s looking for us to be obedient, even if that means waiting for His plan to unfold!
Dear Lord,
I am grateful once more for this example of the importance of waiting in obedience. Help me to be faithfully patient. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.