Today I visited the dentist; only for a check-up! I feel fortunate that I have found a good dentist, as I know there are some places in the country where you are unable to find an appointment – NHS or private. There must have been dentists in Old Testament times, as in Psalm 81 we find the words “Open your mouth wide and I will fill it”. Today I got the words “Open your mouth wide, so that I can check your teeth and gums”.
The Psalm is actually referring to the stubbornness of the people of Israel as they rebelled against God, worshipped idols and went against his commandments. I think we all have a hint of stubbornness in our characters – some more than others – which sometimes gets in the way of living a good life. We like our own way, and anything that becomes a barrier to that faces our obstinacy. That’s what happened to the Israelites; they wanted their own way and didn’t want to follow God’s way, mainly because God’s way seemed too difficult or took them outside of their normal way of life.
We can quite easily put people’s backs up, simply by standing our ground and not giving up on our self-centred principles. Sometimes a little kindness is all that is required for a smooth and happy life; just giving up a little on our own ideas to accommodate other people’s opinions and ways. I hope that a little give and take on your part can make for a happier life, especially if we live according to God’s way and do not have the stubbornness to reject his ways, which are good and are there to help us live life in all its fullness.
With Love, prayers and God’s blessing.
Rev Graham
