So Miriam was shut up outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on until Miriam was received again. Numbers 12:15
Miriam's sin brought the entire nation of Israel to a screeching halt for seven days while God dealt with her and brought her back in line with His will. It must have been devastating for Miriam to realize she was the cause of an unscheduled stop.
How do I know? Last week I discovered I'm a Miriam.
Have you ever said yes to something because you thought you should, or continued serving even though God was leading you in a different direction? In my zeal to serve God, I've once again run ahead of His will. I've said yes to too many things and become a stumbling block to something I love.
For years I've known that trying to do too many things at once means I won't be able to do them well. But I seem to be a slow learner, or at least someone with a poor memory. When I pay attention to the Holy Spirit, this misguided urge stays in check, but when I stray, life gets stressful...for everyone.
Today I had the opportunity make things right as I turned over some of my responsibilities to those God has called to serve. And as I sat, listening to them express their joy at this opportunity it hit me how selfish I've been. Not only was I disobedient (bad enough) but I stood in the way of others who wanted to serve.
Now it felt good to let go, to once again align myself with God’s will and let Him be the only one in charge. As I relearn the lesson of listening, the stress is receding and the joy is returning.
Love this application to Miriam, Edie. As both a slow learner AND one with a poor memory, I must say that this is an all too familiar lesson for me, as well. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteOh Edie, have you been in my brain once again? I think you have, my dear. Thank you so much for such a timely application. I'm one whose a slow learner and has a poor memory as well. And I'll go ahead and let you know that if there's ever anything I can do to help releave some of your stress, I'm an email or phone call away my friend! I just love you so much!
ReplyDeleteThe application to Miriam is an all too familiar one for me as well. Thanks for reminding me how important it is to listen...and obey. Praising the Lord for those who are excited to serve thanks to your Miriam moment. :) God is good!
ReplyDeleteI'm right there with you in over committing and feeling overwhelmed. Thanks for the wonderful reminder, Edie.
ReplyDeleteNo one can accuse me of overcommitting lately, but it's certainly been a lifelong pattern until the last year or so. Thanks for the reminder as I reenter activity, not to return to another usual pattern of all or nothing, especially since I could make this time about doing it ALL. Oh, and check with God first ... that's a good one. : )
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this post! Thank you for your transparency and for passing along your wisdom. As you know, I struggle with the same thing...
ReplyDeleteI'd never thought of Miriam's story in this context. Powerful!
Thanks for the reminder Edie. Listening to God is the only to be in His will. And it allows others the joy of serving.
ReplyDeleteA great reminder, Edie! Know that you are in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteMuch love!