Suggested Bible Reading: Numbers 1-2
Devotional Thought:
In the book of Leviticus the worship of the people is discussed, but in Numbers it is the preparation for war. In this book it is the wandering of the people of God through the wilderness that the Spirit of God particularly points out. One author has said it well, “The book of Numbers is more than a mere travelogue tracing Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab… these conditions included an unflinching desire to possess the land God promised, respect for God-ordained leaders, and concern for maintaining the holiness of the covenant community and of the land of promise. Frequent warnings of the danger of rebellion and the certainty of God’s judgment on sin likewise prodded Israel ahead to the goal of possession of the land.” I want us to notice four lessons in the first four verses relating to Moses numbering the people. First, the message was given in the wilderness of Sinai. The Israelites are wandering in a hostile scene. It must not be forgotten that Christians today are in enemy territory. The Christian cannot really settle here. Peter reminded the believers of his day that they were strangers and pilgrims. (1 Peter 2:11) Their status as strangers and pilgrims motivated his appeal to them that they “abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” It is a solemn fact that the fallen nature with its pull towards sin is still within the believer. Though this is true, the God who gave provision for His people in the wilderness is able to provide for His people today. Second, the message was given from the tabernacle. There is a lesson here. The believer has been provided a sanctuary from the wars of the world as he gathers to worship among his brethren in the local church. The church ought to be a safe haven from the world, a place of spiritual encouragement, edification, and enrichment. The local church is the New Testament answer to the benefit of the tabernacle in the desert. Third, the lesson reminds us of God’s supervision. God knows who you are, where you live, and what He has planned for you. This fact shows the tender interest and concern that God has for His people. As the Israelites moved in the wilderness God’s eye was upon them. This is a comforting thought, and one that should be applied to believers today. Certainly, the knowledge that God knows and that He cares ought to give courage in the battlefields of life. Fourth, the lesson teaches that both Moses and Aaron were to perform this census. Moses represents authority from God. Aaron speaks of priestly observation. In living the Christian life in the wilderness of this world, listening to the authoritative voice of God is important. It is also encouraging to me to remember the high priestly support of the Lord Jesus as He observes every trial we face. Understanding these lessons, the believer will be fortified for the spiritual battles we face.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me to never try to fight the battles of this wilderness journey alone. Thank you for promising to fight for me and with me.
• Lord, thank you for your supervision. I need that accountability as well as the security that it brings to me.
• Lord, please help me to properly represent you as I travel as a pilgrim and stranger in this life. Help me to never be mistaken for a resident, but may I stand out as a foreigner!