“A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower
After God had saved the people of Israel from the Egyptians and led them into the desert, they began to complain (Numbers 20:2-5). Slaves freed become privileged as the chosen of the creator of all. The consequences were great because their complaining and Moses’ failure to follow instructions led to their exclusion from the promised land. It is interesting that in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Paul tells us the same story. In fact, I think it would be appropriate to say that he reminds us as Christians that we are privileged. We have been saved by Jesus Christ, but he exhorts us not to value our privileges above our principles or like Eisenhower said, we may lose both.
Questions:
- Do we live in a land of idolatry? Is God first in our government, family, and churches? (I Corinthians 10:7)
- Is sexual immorality a problem? (I Corinthians 10:8-9)
- Are we a grumbling people? (I Corinthians 10:10)
- Do we think we are self-sufficient? (I Corinthians 10:12)
Thank you Lord for making us a privileged people! Help us this week not to grumble! May we value your principles over our privileges!