“But don’t take any of this for granted. It was only yesterday that you outsiders to God’s ways had no idea of any of this, didn’t know the first thing about the way God works, hadn’t the faintest idea of Christ. You knew nothing of that rich history of God’s covenants and promises in Israel, hadn’t a clue about what God was doing in the world at large. Now because of Christ–dying that death, shedding that blood—you who were once out of it altogether are in on everything. The Messiah has made things up between us so that we’re now together on this, both non-Jewish outsiders and Jewish insiders. He tore down the wall we used to keep each other at a distance”—Ephesians 2:11-14 (MSG).
How could a tiny cut on the end of my left thumb make me realize how much we take for granted? Other than being painful, it’s even more frustrating when you try to use the injured thumb for everyday activities. Have you ever tried to grasp and open a tightly sealed bag when one of your thumbs is swathed in a bandage?
I recall another “thumb” incident over 20 years ago when I jammed my right one, requiring a trip to the doctor to adjust it. With a splint on the thumb, it was impossible to turn my ignition key. However, I learned to adapt by using my left hand. Very awkward.
What else do we take for granted?
We seem to take a lot of things for granted. We take for granted our parents or spouses will always be there for us. Death or divorce can destroy that illusion.
We take for granted that because we’ve given our children a Christian upbringing, they’ll make the right choices when they grow up and leave home.
Sometimes, we do that with our faith, especially when we’ve been raised in the church. We’ve become so familiar with our faith, we often fail to appreciate God. We take Him and His creation for granted.
Taking our faith for granted
Attending church and sitting in the same pew each week can lead to faith inertia. We become lazy. If we don’t make an effort to grow in grace, our faith can run on auto-pilot.
Growing in grace means putting forth the effort, seeking God and reading His Holy Word outside of the church setting. It’s not about religion; it’s about a growing relationship with our Creator God through His Son, Jesus Christ. When we study scripture, we learn what God wants for us, His children. Seeking God through His Word enables us to grow and follow His leading. His will, not ours.
Taking God for Granted
“I don’t ever want to forget what God has done and is doing in my life,” I once told my pastor. “If I do, then I am taking Him for granted.”
God has done so much in my life since I surrendered to Him. I never want to forget. Nor, do I want to forget how His amazing grace transformed me from the inside, out.
When I become impatient in my waiting times, I often have to remind myself how much He wants the best for me. During those waiting times, I don’t want to forget to praise Him.
Paul’s Reminder
In Ephesians 2:11-14, Paul reminds the Gentiles of their heathen past. They were once without hope, without God. But because of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for all, they have been accepted equally with the chosen people, the Jews.
Let Paul’s reminder to the Ephesians be a reminder to us, too. Let’s not take our God, His sacrifice, His grace, His provision, His peace, His protection, and His promises for granted. Let us be thankful every day the sun rises.
Good word and insight, Carol. Your thumb issues reminded me of the tendonitis I dealt with over the last few years in both wrists and thumbs. De quervain’s tenosynovitis. It first struck my right hand (right- handed) and it was so frustrating to keep it in a brace and figure out how to do stuff with my left hand. Then it struck on the left hand and formed a cyst. After PT and multiple injections in both, I’m currently doing well and believe the treatment healed me and praying I won’t require surgery. So, yes, it makes us realize how… Read more »
Yes, Karen, we take more for granted than we realize–even the simple things. Thanks for stopping by to read my post. I will be praying you don’t need surgery, either. I’ve had 12 surgeries in my lifetime and I’m facing another one this year. However, God has been good, so good, to me. Blessings always, my friend.
Awesome word. We do take things for granted. And we get so comfortable until something comes up to challenge our faith.
You are so right, Phyllis. Thanks for stopping by to read my post and leave a comment. Have a blessed rest of your weekend!
I am so grateful for you, my friend!
These things do happen, and I appreciate your
remind me of these things. ♥️
And all God’s people
Say Amen! 🙏🙏🙏
Amen, sister! Grateful for you, too, Miss Kim!
❤️ thank you for sharing your heart!
Thank you, Rhonda, for stopping by to read my post and for giving me feedback. It is affirmation I am still doing what God has called me to do. I admire your work with women. You truly have a servant’s heart and are making a difference in the lives of others. God bless you and your ministry as you continue to do the Lord’s work.
As always you share good food for thought. I love your stuff. When I get ready to collect my blogs into book form, I will certainly ask you for help. I have now written almost 60 weeks’ worth for the Columbus Journal, after 14 years in a monthly series for the Middleton Times-Tribune.
Thank you, Dietrich. I appreciate your feedback. It is affirmation I am still doing what God has called me to do. Just let me know when you have questions about your book. Blessings always.
Amen. I pray I don’t get so busy with “stuff” that I forget to remember to share time with Him. Great message.
Thank you, Melissa, for stopping by to read my post. When I hear from my readers, I know I am doing what God has called me to do. I think we all slip up in our busy world. Since 2003, I have been habitually setting aside my mornings after I rise and fix my mug of tea and feed my dog to spend time with God. It helps start my day on the right foot. God bless you, always!