SCRIPTURE:
19 When the cloud remained over the tabernacle a long time, the Israelites obeyed the LORD’s order and did not set out. 20 Sometimes the cloud was over the tabernacle only a few days; at the LORD’s command they would encamp, and then at his command they would set out. 21 Sometimes the cloud stayed only from evening till morning, and when it lifted in the morning, they set out. Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud lifted, they set out. 22 Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. 23 At the LORD’s command they encamped, and at the LORD’s command they set out. They obeyed the LORD’s order, in accordance with his command through Moses.
Number 9:19-23
OBSERVATION:
3 words come to mind when reading this, 1) OBEDIENCE 2) PATIENCE 3) TRUST.
The Israelites obeyed the command of God, for once, waiting patiently on him and trusting that he knew best.
What really counts though is the heart in which OBEDIENCE, PATIENCE and TRUST are displayed. I can obey the rules, but if I do so grudgingly then what’s the point. I can be patient, but if I’m constantly looking ahead for the opportunity rather than gazing at what’s immediately in front of me then I’ve missed the point. I can trust, but I also need to set my heart on trusting that what I perceive as the victory may not be what God deems as best.
APPLICATION:
God You’ve never failed me. I’m so grateful for you grace and love for the many times I’ve failed to obey and trust You. For the times I choose to do it my way on my schedule. Thank You for the clouds and fire You’ve set in my life to guide my way.
Another big lesson here for me here is that no one moved without the prompting of God. Even if there were clear skies ahead and everything looked good, no one sought to advance until the cloud moved.
I relay this idea to three areas of my life:
My Family: God lead me and direct my steps. May I set out on Your commands as I strive to be the husband, father, son and brother Youʻve called me to be.
Work: Help me be a catalyst for the Holy Spirit. We move so quickly, the action doesn’t stop, the demands don’t stop, the call to excellence doesn’t waver, but neither do You. I’m confident if we intently seek You, You will faithfully guide and provide. On Christ the Solid Rock we stand!
My Ministry: Different from my tasks, I need to clearly define, comprehend and follow my ministry call. I need to relentlessly seek the fire’s guidance and the clouds presence in order to serve well and lead well.
PRAYER:
Jesus, I dare to pray Moses’ prayer that if Your presence will not go than stop me now. Lord I’m a wandering fool without You. I fix my eyes on You. May I be obedient to You, patient in Your will and trusting in Your plan.. Amen
