Remembering Can Be Horrible Or Wonderful

Last week we noted the possible arrogance generated in Israel through thinking they were unique and special. After all, merely consider all the wonderful things God did for them! This week we consider the opposite reaction--the reaction of fear when they realized what was facing them.

If Israel focused on all God did for them in their deliverance, they risked arrogance. If Israel focused on the fact that "everyone we will face is bigger than we are," they risked the paralysis of fear. Commonly, arrogance expresses itself in external behavior. Fear can hide itself internally in the deepest part of the person as unspoken concerns become inner question marks.

The Lord said, "If you consider that the nations you confront are bigger than you are; if you wonder within yourself how are we going militarily to chase them from their homes; do not let fear control you! Remember what I, God, did to Pharaoh! Remember what I did in Egypt! Then remember I am on your side! What you cannot destroy, I will destroy with hornets. Instead of you dreading them, they will dread you. Do not forget! Of all people, you should know I am a great an awesome God!"

"I want you to understand My plan. You will not be able to destroy all these nations who oppose you at one time. I will gradually make you victorious. Do not expect to drive these nations out quickly! That would not benefit you! If you defeated all of them at one time, the wild animals would take over the deserted areas. In time those wild animals would pose a greater risk to you than the nations who now oppose you!"

"Their kings will fall to you and not even be a memory. No one will be able to withstand you. Your responsibility is to destroy these wicked people and burn the idols they leave behind. Do not greedily covet the silver and gold on their idols because it will become a deceptive trap to you. Do not attribute religious significance to the precious metals they devoted to their gods! I, God, hate the silver and gold they devoted to their idols! Do not bring it into your homes! If you do, you will consider something devoted to their gods sacred and become hated by Me! Instead, hate it like I hate it, and do not be deceived by it."

There are three things to note and remember. (1) Remember God had a plan. His plan and Israel's understanding or desire may have differed, but God did not proceed in a haphazard manner. God has reasons for what He does even if we do not understand them. (2) Remember our responsibility is to eliminate the influence of evil in our lives. We will not eliminate evil from the world. We just refuse to let evil influence us. (3) Remember that which rivals or opposes God is hated by God. If we fall under the influence of something hated by God we also become a part of what God dispises.

Evil will continue to exist in this world. [We do need to be careful not to blame God for the acts of Satan. We do need to remember evil is never defeated by resorting to evil (Romans 12:21)] Our decision is two fold: (1) Will we be on God's side or oppose God? (2) Will we be a part of evil or refuse to knowingly allow our lives to be influenced by evil?