"But Moses led the people out of the camp to meet God, and they stationed themselves at the foot of the mountain." Ex 16:17
When we are struggling with life or with family or the church, there is a temptation to bargain with God. After all, we say, Abraham did it. (Gen 18) Moses did it. (Num 11) David did it. (2 Sam 24) I might as well try. Perhaps with a little clever talk and prayer we can get God to see things our way. At times, especially for those who travel, bargaining seems natural, even necessary. In many parts of the world, native people think visitors are foolish and naïve to pay the retail prices listed. If bargaining is a way of life for many people in the world, why not try it with God.
But scripture reminds us that that we cannot bribe God, and that God has no favorites. Asking God for help, not just in difficult circumstances but always, is a form of prayer and we should never hesitate to ask for what we need. At the same time, we must acknowledge that God has always had our good in mind and that there have been and will be times in our life when we must endure darkness and confusion for the sake of God's reign.
Today, remember those lost, and often forgotten, in the quagmire of refugee camps?
What practices help you remember to be grateful each day for all God's gifts?
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