“Why has the Lord brought us to this land to fall by the sword, that our wives and children should become victims? Would it not be better for us to return to Egypt?” ~ Numbers 14:3
REFERENCE:
Numbers 14:1-12
We often get into dire situations that make us desire days past, thinking that they are better than our present. This is because we often forget the unpleasant details of the past and only focus on what seemed enjoyable. Yes, you may have had riches, but remember the spirit of fear that constantly gripped your heart. No, your best is not behind you; your best is just unfolding.
Have you been there before? We say, “Life was better when I was in the world.” “I had more businesses as an unbeliever.” We make it look like God ‘interrupted’ our otherwise good life with Salvation, and we sometimes even threaten God that we’ll go back to the world (Egypt) because of particular challenges we encounter. But really, was life better while in ‘Egypt?’
I remember my life in Egypt: emotional grief, bound to bad habits, the fear of death, shame of dealing with addictions, and lack of inner peace. Do you remember the anxiety, depression, and satan’s control in your ‘Egypt?’ Yes, Israel had cucumbers in Egypt but were also beaten; they ate garlic but were slaves; they had shelters but lost their first sons to a cruel king.
The Israelites longed for cucumbers, garlic, and an Egyptian burial because they faced tough times. Life will throw challenges at you, but it does not mean God has forsaken you or is worsening your life. Your best is not behind but ahead of you. Joshua said, “We may be in the wilderness now, but we are heading to a good land flowing with milk and honey.” Ingratitude is what makes us think like this; it shows a lack of faith in the God who brought out to take us in.
It is foolish to keep craving for what you left behind in the world because nothing compares to your new life in Christ. No matter what temporary challenges it poses, life in Christ is far more glorious than life in ‘Egypt,’ regardless of what comfort it offers. Life in Christ holds a promise here and in the life to come. There is a land flowing with milk ahead of us; do not let us be discouraged by the events in the ‘wildernesses of this world.’ Do not be deceived; your best is not behind you.
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL TEXTS:
Ecclesiastes 7:10, Romans 6:21-23, and Hebrews 10:35-36
PRAYER:
+ Father, forgive me for yearning to return to Egypt because of my present challenges.
+ Help me to remain steadfast in doing Your will. Please give me an enduring faith that will take me to the finish line of my Christian race.
+ Prophesy to yourself: “(Your name), your best is not behind you but ahead of you, in Jesus’ name.”
