“The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight. They forgot about the Lord their God…”-Judges 3:7
Have you ever forgotten where you placed something that was important to you? I know I have! I've forgotten where I placed my keys before. I’ve forgotten my wallet at various places. That's never fun! I’ve misplaced sunglasses, books, even my car (I’m talking about parking at a store and forgetting where I parked :D). I forgot my bag at the airport once…I can be forgetful, as you can probably tell. I would imagine you can relate on some level. All of us are forgetful at times. Well, as we read the book of Judges, one thing that really stands out is how the Israelites were very forgetful. But, what they forgot about, or more accurately said, Who they forgot about, is immeasurably more important and valuable than anything else. They forgot about God.
Now, it’s easy to read about the Israelites’ forgetfulness of God and just think, “Are you kidding me, guys?! What were you doing forgetting about God?! He helped you time after time after time, yet you forgot about the Lord over and over and over again. How dumb!” It is flat out tomfoolery! But, the truth be told, we all have the same bent in our sinfulness to do the very same thing. How easily each one of us can forget about God. We really aren’t different than the Israelites we read about in the Old Testament. How often do we only cry out to God when things get difficult? How often do we express our anguish to God in trying times and beg for His help, yet when things “smooth out” we so readily forget about God? We also far too easily forget about the Lord, forgetting to pray, forgetting to depend on Him, neglecting to trust Him, too scatterbrained to admit our ongoing need for Jesus.
May we be reminded — WE NEED GOD, every moment! Thus, God has called us to remember Him and to continue to follow Him. How crucial that we don’t forget. How key that we remember Jesus! Colossians 2:6 says it this way: “And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow Him.” We are to remember — Jesus is Lord! He is The One and Only Savior of the world. He alone brings true peace, joy, and rest. Jesus is The Vine, and we are the branches that are to steadfastly remain, to faithfully abide in Him (John 15:5). Let’s remember. Let’s continue to follow Him daily, praying, reading His word, and obeying His invaluable instructions. God, please help us not to forget You, ever.
Godspeed, friends!
-Scott