161 Know God (Deut 8)

I made a passing comment today about being so cold, my back was sore.
It was. Right down the bottom towards my.....well yeah y'know.
Was I seeking sympathy?
No.
Was I looking for ideas re treatment?
No.
It was a comment giving a metaphorical (in a literal sort of metaphorical way) description on the current state of the temperature, or lack of degrees, from my point of view.
I was cold.
How cold?
So cold my back is sore.
Fullstop.
Change topic.
Keep watching TV.
Say nothing.
Then, I would be fine. Too easy. Instead, what happened?
Not one, but two.
Two.
TWO!!!!
Statements relating to my increasing frailty through the gaining of years.

"Sounds like an old man thing to say."
And I heard a giggle behind the smile.
"Poor old thing."
Indeed!

During this time of year, there are warnings about getting flu and recommendations on getting vaccinated.
These generally apply to two specific groups.
The elderly or the very young.
Why do I automatically get grouped with the old with this comment about the cold?
Surely there is just as much chance (50/50), of being young.
I know many young people who complain.
I absolutely believe I have a greater likelihood of being a "poor young man" than a "poor old man".
Hmmph!
It was so unjust.
And if the TV volume was lower I could have heard what else was being said.
They just don't make those tellie things like they used to.
I remember when............

Deuteronomy 8
God provided so adequately through the period of wandering.
v4 "Your clothing did not wear out on you and your foot did not swell these forty years."

I can't imagine walking in the harsh environment without some sort of foot problem.
The consequences were brought about by poor decision making. Yet through the punishment, God's provision and love continued. The same as when you discipline your child. Despite the cliche, it often does hurt you, the parent, more than the child.
It hurts because you care.
It hurts because sometimes in the eye's of the child it seems unfair.
It hurts because you've been in the same place before.
Empathy hurts.

v5 "Know then in your heart that, as a man disciplines his son, the LORD your God disciplines you."

God keeps everything in perspective as well.
He is well aware of the problem of pride.
He was there at Babel.
He was there with Esau.
He was there with Ishamael.

Know God.
Know what He has done.
Know His love.
Know his grace.