Hang On

Exodus 16:1-3
1 And they took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt.
² And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness:
³ And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.
 

I've been thinking about this story a lot lately. I wish I could say it's because I am preparing a message on it or teaching it, but honestly, it's because I am living it.   So many temptations to return to former ways besiege me on an almost daily basis.   I just keep thinking it would be easier to go back, even if it isn't what is best.  I am no different than the Israelites.  They knew the circumstances in Egypt, but this unknown territory was frightening.  They struggled in trusting the Lord because their eyes were on their circumstances.  I struggle trusting too... wondering 'what if....'  all the while knowing that if I dare allow myself to answer, I will find myself stuck in a place that closely resembles the Egypt of their day... a place the the Lord didn't intend for them to be.  I know if I return to my Egypt, I will never completely find my specific purpose.  So I hang on to His word and His promises that He cares for me in ways that I don't understand.  I hang on to the fact that circumstances do not scare or intimidate my God.  I hang on to the truth that if I walk uprightly and trust Him, He will be my buckle or shield.  I hang on.


What about you?  Is He asking you to leave your Egypt?  Maybe it's a habit that has a stronghold on you...or a relationship that is not His best for you...or maybe He is asking you to step out in faith and serve Him in a way that stretches you?  I know that fear you face.  Just hang onto Him!

Father, you know all too well the challenges and temptations I face.  You know there are times I want to run back to what is comfortable, known, but completely unsatisfying.  You made me for more that just adequate.  I ask you to remind me of the truths of your promises when my resolve is wearing thin.  Thank you for bringing me out of Egypt and for walking with me to the promised land!  I love you!!!