1 Samuel 6:12 (NIV): “Then the cows went straight up toward Beth Shemesh, keeping on the road and lowing all the way; they did not turn to the right or to the left. The rulers of the Philistines followed them as far as the border of Beth Shemesh.”
I’ve been watching “The Incredible Dr. Poll” lately. He is a veterinarian in central Michigan who has many farm calls and deals with lots of cows. I have learned that momma cows definitely are protective of their calves and want to be with them. Getting the momma cows to separate from their calves can actually be dangerous to those around them.
The background on the verse above from 1 Samuel is that the holy Ark of the Covenant had been captured by the Philistines, a plague of tumors had effected their people, and now they wanted to get rid of the Ark. They determined to send the Ark back to the land of Israel, but to be convinced that it was actually the God of the Israelites that had caused the tumors they came up with a plan. They separated a couple of momma cows from their calves, hitched a wagon with the Ark on to the cows, and just let them wander. Well, they left their calves and went straight to the land of Israel, “they did not turn to the right or to the left.” The Philistines were convinced that the Israelite God was real.
Today, I believe that the existence of God is being questioned by those in secular society like never before. It used to be that most people believed that God exists, so when the Bible starts with, “In the beginning, God created…” there was a point of agreement. Now, even those words are being dismissed by many.
Evidence is important. I believe that God has created the entire universe with evidence that He exists. Still there are those who resist. They either see the evidence for God and actively rebel against God, or they choose to ignore God. Both actions result in a life that doesn’t align with the Creator. I personally became convinced decades ago about God’s existence. What will convince you?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are the Creator of all. You have also revealed Yourself through Your Creation, through Your word, and especially through Your Son, Jesus. I am amazed at the evidence supporting Your creative works. May Your Holy Spirit be at work in my family and friends who continue to struggle with accepting the evidence all around them. May they be convinced.
