Bright Memory April 19, 2015

Is It Not in the Least Likely?

For Joab had supported Adonijah although he had not supported Absalom. 1 Kings 2:28  ESV

Joab stood the big test, he remained absolutely loyal and true to David and did not turn after the fascinating and ambitious Absalom, but yet towards the end of his life he turned after the craven Adonijah. Always remain alert to the fact that where one man has gone back is exactly where any one may go back (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). You have gone through the big crisis, now be alert over the least things; take into calculation the “retired sphere of the leasts.”

We are apt to say—“It is not in the least likely that having been through the supreme crisis, I shall turn now to the things of the world.” Do not forecast where the temptation will come; it is the least likely thing that is the peril. In the aftermath of a great spiritual transaction the “retired sphere of the leasts” begins to tell; it is not dominant, but remember it is there, and if you are not warned, it will trip you up. You have remained true to God under great and intense trials, now beware of the undercurrent. Do not be morbidly introspective, looking forward with dread, but keep alert; keep your memory bright before God. Unguarded strength is double weakness, because that is where the “retired sphere of the leasts” saps. The Bible characters fell on their strong points, never on their weak ones.

“Kept by the power of God”—that is the only safety.

Chambers, Oswald (2011-05-01). My Utmost for His Highest, Classic Edition (p. 79). Discovery House Publishers. Kindle Edition.

"Keep your memory bright before God."  I love that line.  Bright memory.  Recollections of His protection, guidance, steadfastness.  It is by recalling those times we have failed, we can be more alert to similar situations in the future.  When we remember God's hand of protection in this situation we can have a greater feeling of assurance in this situation.  Can't recall a time when God failed you?  They why would He start now?

From personal experience, I know that we can dwell too much on our past slips, slides, and sins.  Chambers cautions about being "morbidly introspective".  But as Paul wrote, "everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment."  Romans 12:3 ESV  Be realistic.  Be alert.  Be aware.  But don't be morose.

We should neither advance nor abase ourselves.  It is the ancient Greeks who are credited with the aphorism, "know thyself".  We would do well to follow that advice.  Know thyself, but know thyself as our Heavenly Father knows us.  Fallen, but redeemed.  Filthy, but spotless.  Separated, but reconciled.