We have sinned as our ancestors did; we have been wicked and evil. Our ancestors in Egypt did not understand God's wonderful acts; they forgot the many times he showed them his love, and they rebelled against the Almighty at the Red Sea. But he saved them, as he had promised, in order to show his great power. He gave a command to the Red Sea, and it dried up; he led his people across on dry land. He saved them from those who hated them; he rescued them from their enemies. But the water drowned their enemies; not one of them was left. Then his people believed his promises and sang praises to him.

But they quickly forgot what he had done and acted without waiting for his advice. They were filled with craving in the desert and put God to the test; so he gave them what they asked for, but also sent a terrible disease among them.

Psalm 106: 6-15

Some people pray only in a crisis. They have a "quick fix" mentality that sees God mainly as a problem solver. When merciful solutions come, He is courteously thanked, then more or less forgotten until the next crisis.

Israel took the Lord's mercies for granted, and He called that rebellion. They developed malnourished souls because they chose to ignore Him.

Anticipate great things from God, but don't expect Him to come at your beck and call. Instead, be at His beck and call, eager to fulfill His will. Do not dismiss Him when your needs are met, cling to Him as if your life depended on it. It does!

God is not a vending machine.

Our Daily Bread - June 29, 2003