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
Atlin, B.C.