As usual, a man filled the fuel tank of his car with petrol. However, the boy who filled the petrol forgot to put the lid back on. As he drove, a spark fell into the tank through the opening, fire engulfed the vehicle, and it exploded. The man escaped with minor injuries. Forgetfulness could be dangerous, more so in spiritual life. In the Wilderness, the Israelites experienced the consequences of their forgetfulness. (Psalm 106:12-15)
Words forgotten: When they first heard the Word of God, the Law directly from God and through Moses, they believed. They also sang his praise. But soon, they forgot God’s words. When the Bible is forgotten, there are several other pseudo-knowledges provided by the world that fill the minds of people. Because the mind is not a vacuum.
Works Forgotten: It is natural to forget the works of God when the Words of God are forgotten. The Word of God reveals His works in the Scripture, in history, and in the lives of disciples. When works are forgotten, the hope of the future is lost.
Waiting forgotten: Sadly, the Israelites lost the art of waiting and listening to the counsel of God. When they refused to wait for God’s plan and will, they tested God. They rushed to do what they desired, instead of listening to His guidance and knowing His will. Disciples who do not meditate on the Word of God daily end up walking in the counsel of the wicked. (Psalm 1:1-3)
Wanton Craving: When godliness and divine desires are forgotten, there would be wanton cravings. If they desired meat, they could have killed the animals they had with them. The purposeless life of a disciple will end up in vanity and desire for the pleasures and prosperity of the world.
Wasting disease: God granted the Israelites what they craved for, but he punished them by sending wasting disease, and many died. God, who promised to bless their bread and water, heal their disease, would allow disease to afflict them. (Exodus 23:25-28)
Am I afflicted by forgetfulness in my spiritual life?