Scripture
Psalm 106:33-48 (NIV)
For they rebelled against the Spirit of God, and rash words came from Moses’ lips. 34 They did not destroy the peoples as the LORD had commanded them, 35 but they mingled with the nations and adopted their customs.
36 They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them. 37 They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to false gods. 38 They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan, and the land was desecrated by their blood. 39 They defiled themselves by what they did; by their deeds they prostituted themselves.
40 Therefore the LORD was angry with his people and abhorred his inheritance. 41 He gave them into the hands of the nations, and their foes ruled over them. 42 Their enemies oppressed them and subjected them to their power. 43 Many times he delivered them, but they were bent on rebellion and they wasted away in their sin.
44 Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45 for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented. 46 He caused all who held them captive to show them mercy. 47 Save us, LORD our God, and gather us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. 48 Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, “Amen!” Praise the LORD.
Introduction
“I am very busy” seems to be the tag line these days for everyone, even children. The world has grown at such a pace that makes it difficult to keep up with things important for our spiritual growth and wellness. Today’s scripture reminds us of the things that could divert our attention and steal our focus, and why or how we should flee these distractions and temptations to focus on God.
The questions below will guide us to understand the scripture better.
1. What are some beliefs or ideals are widely accepted by our culture but clearly contradict the teaching of scripture?
1.1. How does this passage summarize Israel’s rebellion? (106:34-39)
2.1 What temptations drew Israel away from her faith in God? (106:34-39)
2.2 How did the Lord react to Israel’s sin? (106:40-43)
2.3 How did God demonstrate His faithfulness to Israel despite her rebellion? (106:44-46)
3. What are some subtle temptations that can interfere with our spiritual growth? What things divert our attention from the Lord?
4. How does God show mercy and love to us despite all we do?
4.1 What concrete action could you take to prevent the temptations of the world from interfering with your commitment to God?