Remember!

A child who had been given a few dollars, eagerly purchased a wallet the next time he went to the store. His father became amused as he watched his son open the wallet and peer in every few minutes. After looking, going off to play a while, then returning to look again, the child asked his father, "How long does it take for the money to begin appearing? Every time you open yours it has some in it."

Like a child who does not understand the true source of money in a wallet or even the processes that all the supplies on store shelves go through -- from either factory or farmer to market -- how often do we take for granted the daily blessings God has provided? Oh how earnestly we pray when we feel we are in great need, but does the frequency diminish when we find ourselves with plenty? God knew that even Israel would struggle with this once they had moved into the land of plenty to which He was leading them. They were not to forget God nor all the blessings He had provided during the journey in the wilderness. (note Deuteronomy 8:3-4) When they received the blessings in store for them in Canaan ( Deuteronomy 8:7-9), God knew that as they became full, they could easily forget the source of their blessings. ( Deuteronomy 8:11-16)

Through Moses, God warned. . .
"(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)

Even though we work to earn a living, we must not forget to THANK GOD for the health and strength to do so. He also provides the rain and sunshine needed to help the food we eat grow. He is also the One Who placed the germ inside the seed that does its magic to germinate and produce a crop.

I'm reminded of the arrogance Paul addressed among the Corinthians when he wrote. . .
"(7) For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, WHY DO YOU BOAST AS IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE IT?" ( 1 Corinthians 4:7 ESV)

Whether we are considering physical or spiritual things, is that not the case? May we guard against developing a sense of pride that leaves the focus on our own efforts and forgets the greater part God has played in it all. We are richly blessed. May He be greatly praised as we live thankfully before Him.

Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING GOD AS THE GIVER OF ALL GOOD THINGS!
Carl

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