Faith when it's Easy

Scripture: So Moses told the Israelites to celebrate the Passover, and they did so in the Desert of Sinai at twilight on the fourteenth day of the first month. The Israelites did everything just as the Lord commanded Moses. Number 9:4-5

Observation: It remains the first month of the second year, the Israelites of built the arc and the tabernacle and the alter and the lampstand and all other amenities for the house of the Lord. They have dedicated it all and offered sacrifices, and now celebrate the first Passover since the true Passover that brought them out of Egypt. And they continue to do everything just as the Lord tells them. Israel is faithful, good, and living in order and harmony.

This day may be the height of Israel's relationship with God. They will soon break camp on their way to the promised land and ... complain about hardships, have a mini rebellion lead by Aaron himself, and eventually refuse to enter the land due to lack of faith. In other words, they've are great with God when all they have to do is follow procedures, but soon as action is required - real action, like moving around, not just ceremonial eating of a meal - they fall apart.

Application: Where is my faith when God wants me to act? We have been learning about the traits Jesus exemplified when healing others, and while certain actions were common (like laying on hands), he also exhibited faith and love. My faith isn't really 'real' when I'm just relaxing and acknowledging the blessings God has provided, but it is when I need to take action.

Israel looked so good when times were easy, but fell apart when action was called for. So again, where am I on this? Am I faithful in action at least as much if not more than I am in thought? Am I listening for God's instructions on how to act, and then proceeding without issue or grumbling? I need to ensure I'm not just being Israel eating Passover, but grumbling and fearfully refusing instructions that involve taking action in God's name.

Prayer: Lord, may I be faithful to you in my actions, or as James said, may I show my faith in my actions. Please fill my heart with love, and with your word, and with your spirit, and with your direction. Amen.