We Need to Hear Important Things Over and Over

Articles

Steve Springer
08/27/20 - Covid 19 Resource

Many of you may remember hearing your parents, relatives or teachers saying things like, “be careful”, “drive carefully”, “do all your homework”, “choose your friends carefully”, and many other admonitions. Needless to say, it was sometimes difficult to hear these directions repeated. Yet, at times as we made mistakes, we reevaluated the directions and wished we had driven more carefully, paid attention to our homework, and been more alert to the quality of friends we had. We also may have better understood why those who loved and respected us continued to tell us the same things over and over. The story is told about the preacher who preached the same sermon three Sundays in row. Upon being asked why he had preached the same sermon for three weeks, he said “well, you have not done what I preached the first week…it needed to be repeated.” So, during this time of a deadly virus, storms, wildfires, and serious racial strife, we need to truly hear what the Bible says about being God’s people and the necessity and effectiveness of prayer. This is not a one-time discussion either. We need to continue to consider the power and blessings of God over and over. Helping each other by continuous support and admonitions can benefit us all. An example of how God reminds us “over and over” is clearly illustrated in the first chapter of the book of Joshua. Joshua is chosen by God to lead the people after the death of Moses. This was obviously a major change for both the people and Joshua himself. In the charge God gave Joshua, there were three verses in the chapter to remind Joshua of needing to be strong and of good courage (verses 6 and 9) and be strong and “very courageous” (verse 7). Certainly, it was clear what type of leadership Joshua was to provide. These three verses close together in the text also provides something more for us to consider. First, God showed no hesitancy in mentioning what Joshua must do several times. It gave a strong emphasis! Second, when we read our Bibles regarding what God wants us to do…we need to pay attention to what he has said…and get it done. God’s message is not going to change! Finally, we as Christians must realize that one of the things we can do when we are feeling deep concern and doubt regarding the difficult time we are living through, is to read and read again what God has told us and the assurances we have if we follow His word. So, maybe we need to talk to one another about God and His son Jesus Christ…over and over! I know it will make a difference.