The Back Brace

1 Peter 2:10 – Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (NIV)

Many years ago, I injured my back. Since that time, I have worn a back brace whenever I do any type of heavy work. At least I did, until about two years ago, when I gradually forgot about it, as my back had become so strong that I simply felt I didn't need it. I didn't need it, that is, until after several days of heavy, wet snow and the shovelling which always accompanies such an event, I awoke one morning hardly able to move.

Inching my way out of bed was agony, as was bending, stretching, or, to be honest, almost any type of movement. The worst, however, was that it took me three days before I suddenly remembered my back brace. How could I possibly forget something so important, that had done so much for me? Don't ask me, but I did.

Likewise as Christians, we, too, can sometimes forget what God has done for us. Things just get going so well for us as His people, that gradually, His mercy, love, and forgiveness simply become things that we take for granted. We get lulled into a false sense of security that we are strong enough in our faith that we don't need the regular spiritual support of things like praise, prayer, fellowship, worship, and study, until one day, we wake up and realize that we have fallen into grave danger when it comes to the sinful desires which war against our souls.

At such times, don't be like me. Remember your support system. Reach out to God right away; remember that He is merciful. Be honest with both yourself and Him. Brace yourself, fortify yourself with His Word, His fellowship, praise, prayer, and study, and above all, centre your mind back where it belongs, lest you forget again that "Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."

Prayer: Father God, how quickly we forget all that You have done for us. Remind us anew today of Your great love and mercy that has made us Your people. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.

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