Start Right, Start with God
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | January 1 2025 | Numbers 10:29-36
KEY VERSE:
But he said to him, "I will not go. I will depart to my own land and to my kindred.” Numbers 10:30 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Over the next few days, I will share insights from my book "An Exciting Life Through the Year. Having a Fulfilling Year Series” - Part One. These have been adapted to fit the format and purpose of these devotionals.
In the early verses, Moses presses his brother-in-law, Hobab, to join the people of Israel on the good journey God was asking them to undertake. Joining them would benefit both parties. There's nothing wrong with asking people to take uncharted courses for mutual benefit.
Did Hobab join? It appears to be an unsettled issue. In any case, it is not for discussion here. The only point I want to bring out is Hobab's reason for not being keen. In the verse under discussion, we're told he just wanted to be back in his own country and kindred. In life's journey, that can be counterproductive.
When God called Abraham, He was emphatic in asking him to leave his country and kindred (Genesis 12:1). Earlier, in Genesis 2:24, we were told that marriage entails leaving mother and father and cleaving to the spouse. Luke 14:25 makes clear that the cost of discipleship demands such choices. Embracing God’s calling often requires leaving behind the comfort of familiarity. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
The year 2025 will undoubtedly bring opportunities. Please, let’s not miss them out of fear or a desire to remain in our comfort zones or familiar grounds. Trust God and step boldly into His plan. PRAYER:
Please, Lord, on this first day of the year 2025, create in us the willingness to be at the centre of your purposes no matter the cost. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 1: Genesis 1-2 — The Creation of the World and Humanity
DAILY word study: DEPART The Hebrew term “halak” (הלך), translated as "depart" in Numbers 10:30, carries a rich and multifaceted meaning. It signifies "to walk," "go," or "move," often pointing to both physical movement and deliberate decisions about direction. In the context of our key verse, it reflects Hobab’s expressed desire to return to his homeland and family—a choice that emphasized his separation from the divine journey of Israel. Hobab’s reluctance to stay with Israel mirrors a struggle we all face: the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the challenges of stepping into God’s unknown plans.
Theologically, departure often signifies a pivotal moment—a crossroads where faith is tested, and priorities are clarified. Hobab’s decision to "depart" highlights a missed opportunity to partake in the blessings of God’s promises to Israel. This shows us that moving away from God's direction, even unintentionally, can result in spiritual loss.
Reflection: As you begin this new year, think deeply about the choices you face. Are you walking toward God’s purposes, even when the path ahead seems uncertain? Or are you retreating to what feels safe and familiar? What departures might God be calling you to make today—departures that require faith, courage, and trust in Him?
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