Will They Ever Learn?

Will those who do evil never learn? They eat up my people like bread; they wouldn't think of praying to the Lord. Terror will grip them, for God is with those who obey him. The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed but the Lord will protect his people. Psalm 14: 4-6 NLT

This verse makes me think of two occurrences in the Old Testament. The first is when the Israelites were in slavery in Egypt. When Moses starts coming to Pharaoh, Pharaoh does not let God's people go but increases their work. The Egyptians seem to be eating the Israelites like bread.

The second occasion that I am thinking of is when the Israelites are sent into exile and Jerusalem is destroyed. The glory of the Lord has left God's chosen people and they are forced to work and life in Babylon, far from God. The wicked have frustrated the plans of the oppressed but God remains with God's people, no matter how far from home they are.

When in your life have you been in slavery? I don't mean literally sold on the block but when have you felt as though you were a slave to someone else's desires and commands? Did you feel like you were being gobbled up like a hot Krispy Kreme donut?

When in your life have you felt in exile? Were you truly far from home? Or did you just feel cut off from everything familiar, including the Lord? Did you feel like your plans were being frustrated?

God is with those who obey him. God is going to protect God's people. You may feel swallowed up or oppressed but God has not forgotten you.

God, thank you for always knowing where we are and what we are facing in life. Even when we don't feel your presence, help us to remember you are still with us. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2011 Amelia G. Sims