“They made their lives bitter with harsh labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in a their harsh labor the Egyptians worked them ruthlessly.” (Exodus 1:14 NIV)
Can bitterness be part of God’s plan for His people?
Our young adults group got caught up in discussion last night, they self-professed: their generation is soft. They cited tales of hardship from parents and grandparents and collectively came to an accurate conclusion. Life has been comfortable. They are well-fed, entertained, equally-educated and even a bit spoiled. But is that good?
I sat back and listened, already believing American life to be easy. I’ve wondered, how well do we recognize God’s hand when day to day living conditions are above adequate?
Abraham’s children did not depend on God in their affluence. When they were wealthy in Canaan they entertained idols and intermarried. It wasn’t until they encountered persecution that they called on God. The twelve tribes of Jacob learned to love God in a foreign land under unfair rule.
Bitter lives increase our longing for a better land.
I watch the news parade across my screen and I consider what is coming. It seems like the heat is about to increase for Christians in America. The rhetoric and laws in Washington will make their way into small town America and the culture will follow. Hostility to God’s word will increase. Being a Christian will cost again.
I wonder, will we begin to long for our true country?
“Instead they were longing for a better country – a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:16 NIV)
Lord, let the discomfort of this country lift our gaze toward a heavenly one. Set our hearts on eternity. Preoccupy us with Your promises. Strengthen us to withstand the coming bitterness for Kingdom’s sake. Amen.