The Consequences of Ignored Instruction

Scripture: Psalm 78:8

And not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation, A generation that did not prepare its heart And whose spirit was not faithful to God. 

Insights:  Today’s Thoughts by Scott encompass a lot more than just verse 8.  For the full context and insight you need to read verses 8-55.  What we learned Sunday was that Ephraim was an example of one who did not accept or receive God’s instructions.  In fact, he went so far as to test God in his disobedience.  Such rebellion leads to consequences and often times those judgments are severe.  Part of their testing of God was the people asking for meat.  So, God sent them birds and dropped them right in the center of their camp.  Instead of showing gratitude to God for this miraculous provision of meat they took it as if they were entitled to it.  This attitude of ingratitude stirred the heart of God to let His wrath fall down on the people and He put to death many of them.  In these verses, however, we also see the hope of the Lord displayed.  For in His judgment, He did not destroy the entire nation.  He dispensed grace and saved many from the judgment they rightly deserved and then God proceeded to tell them of many examples of His grace that He had dispensed on the people.  Tomorrow we will look at how the people responded to such lavished grace.  Here is the point, Beloved, there are consequences to rebellion and sin.  So often we think our sin only affects us personally.  This thought is just not true.  There were many children there that day that lost parents.  There were many spouses that lost the dear mate of their youth.  There is always a payment that must be made for sin and rebellion.  We must do all that we can to keep our hearts pure and pliable in the hands of the Father.  Let Him mold and shape you into the image of His Son, Jesus. 

Questions:

1. Are you rejecting God’s instructions in your life?
2. Are you prepared for the consequences of such rebellion?

Prayer: O Father, this verse troubles my spirit.  May I not be rebellious and stubborn hearted against You and Your commands.  Give me the courage to walk resolutely with You and bring You joy in my obedience.  Amen.