Learning From Their Mistakes

Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-12 Theme: We must not fall to temptations like the Israelites did in the wilderness. Key verses: “…all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea…” (v. 2) “For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ. But with most of them God was not well pleased, for their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted.” (v. 4-6) “Therefore, let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” (v. 12) What God said to me: Dwayne, good to have you back journaling today. I know you think it’s ok to skip and only occasionally make time to write your devotions in this manner. But you must discipline your time and your mind to put aside other activities and pressing needs to journal in my presence. This is your source for renewal, direction, and ongoing discipleship. Now, notice 2 things about this passage: First, Paul pointed out that they Children of Israel had me with them, protecting and guiding them, performing amazing miracles for them as I provided for their every need. So it is with you today. You have my same power and love and presence available to you. That should comfort and excite you, and give you boldness at every turn. However, it should also make you thankful and cause you to passionately protect against not having those incredible blessings in your life. Second, notice what the Children of Israel did that angered me and made them fall. They became idolaters. Their mind and focus was on pleasing themselves, indulging their appetites, while being ungrateful to me, their Source. They sinned sexually, again to gratify their sinful flesh. And on top of that, they complained to me, as though they had any reason to be disgruntled or feel abandoned! I was their great and mighty God. Yet, they spat in my face and rejected my love. Thus, I destroyed them. So, my child — who is not immuned from the same repulsive attitudes, actions, and fate — take heed, lest you also fall. What I said to God: Holy Lord, I have been so sinful and rebellious at times. I have completely ignored Your presence and Your gentle warnings to my spirit. I have done my own thing my own way, way to often. I know I must learn from the mistakes of our forefathers, yet I seem to keep repeating some of them over and over. Please cleanse me, but then also please empower me to say no over and over to my temptations. I know that I am just as capable of falling as any other Christian. I must beat my body, lest after I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. I love You and adore You today. Please fill me with Your Spirit and lead me in Your way everlasting.