Read Deuteronomy 8.
Why did God have the nation of Israel wander around in the wilderness for forty years? Immediately, one could answer that God was punishing an entire generation for their unbelief and preparing the next generation to possess the land. That would be correct as far as results are concerned. But notice what Moses' said was the LORD's purpose.
"...that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD." (vv.2a-4)
And then, Moses reminded the nation how God had taken care of them all these years, right down to their shoe size. Next, the warning:
"Beware lest you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth..." (v.17-18a)
It is our pride that bolsters self-importance and self-sufficiency. The ego tells us we do not need God. After all, what has He ever done for us? People have hurt us and therefore no one is trust worthy. "If is to be, it is up to me." "I am the captain of my soul. I am the master of my fate."
The very essence of a relationship with God is a complete dependence upon Him and what He has to say our living our lives. It is the path to receiving His care and blessings.
"The fear of the LORD is to hate evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate." (Proverbs 8:13)
"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom." (Proverbs 11:2)
"'God opposes the proud but give grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:5b-7)
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