1 Peter 2:10 “Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” NIV

Many years ago I injured my back. Since that time I have worn a back brace whenever I do any type of heavy work. At least I did, until about two years ago when I gradually forgot about it, as my back had become so strong, I simply felt I didn’t need it. I didn’t need it that is, until after several days of heavy wet snow and the shoveling which always accompanies such an event, I awoke one morning hardly able to move.

Inching my way out of bed was agony, as was bending, stretching or to be honest almost any type of movement. The worst however was that it took me three days before I suddenly even remembered my back brace. How could I possibly forget something so important, that had done so much for me? Don’t ask me, but I did.

Likewise as Christians we too can sometimes forget what God has done for us. Things just get going so well for us as his people that gradually His mercy, love and forgiveness simply become things we take for granted. We get lulled into the false sense of security that we are strong enough in our faith that we don’t need the regular spiritual support of things like, praise, prayer, fellowship, worship and study until one day we wake up and realize that we have fallen into grave danger when it comes to the sinful desires which war against our souls.

At such times, don’t be like me. Remember your support system. Reach out to God right away, remember he is merciful. Be honest with both yourself and Him. Brace yourself, fortify yourself with his word, his fellowship, praise, prayer and study and above all centre your mind back where it belongs, less you forget again that:

Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Prayer: Father God, how quickly we forget all that you have done for us. Remind anew today of your great love and mercy that has made us your people. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Lynne Phipps lynnephipps@hotmail.com
Atlin, B.C.