Start Right, Start With God - Pt. 2
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | January 2 2025 | Numbers 10:29-36
KEY VERSE:
³³ So they set out from the mount of the LORD three days' journey. And the ark of the covenant of the LORD went before them three days' journey, to seek out a resting place for them. ³⁴And the cloud of the LORD was over them by day, whenever they set out from the camp.” Numbers 10:33-34 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Journeying with God assures us of His faithfulness. He watches over His word to fulfil it, often using unexpected means. For instance, God stirred the spirit of a pagan king to accomplish what He had promised 70 years earlier (Ezra 1:1)
The Israelites' journey vividly displays God’s faithfulness. After humbling Pharaoh, his people, and the gods of Egypt with ten plagues, He led the Israelites out of bondage (Exodus 14:30; Numbers 33:3). At Mount Sinai, He established His covenant with them, preparing them for the next stage of their journey to the land promised to Abraham hundreds of years earlier.
In verse 33, the ark of the covenant symbolises God’s commitment to His people. It led the way in seeking out resting places for them, proof of His loving care. Even if Hobab had chosen not to guide them, God’s provision would surpass any human effort.
Verse 34 emphasises God’s ever-present presence with His people, with the cloud hovering over the Israelites by day. In verse 35, the ark represents divine victory, scattering enemies before them, while verse 36 portrays it as a shield of protection. These truths teach us that walking with God is the safest and wisest choice as we enter an uncharted year. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
COVID-19 made clear that our years are uncharted courses. Our safest step in 2025 is to journey with the Sovereign Lord through His Son, Jesus Christ. The Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, is ready to lead for us to follow. Let us not miss the eternal opportunity. PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, please help me walk with you each moment of the year and beyond. May Your guidance and faithfulness lead me in every step. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 2: Genesis 3 — The Fall of Humanity
DAILY word study: JOURNEY In Numbers 10:33, the Hebrew word for Journey is מַסָּע֙ (massa’), derived from the root נָסַע (nasa’), which means "to set out," "to pull up," or "to depart." This term often describes the Israelites' movements in the wilderness, directed by God Himself. The root suggests a deliberate action of departure—a conscious decision to move forward, leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown with trust in God's guidance. In this passage, massa’ conveys more than just physical relocation; it signifies a spiritual journey. It tells us that life’s true journey is one centred on God. It underscores His providence, His presence, and His promises. The journey of faith is not a path free from uncertainty or challenges but one where trust in God's plan and provision is key. Walking with God requires us to let go of the familiar and embrace His direction, knowing He leads us to His perfect purpose.
Reflection:
What does your journey with God look like today? Are you willing to trust Him, even when the path ahead seems unclear? Just as the Israelites depended on God’s guidance, we too are called to rely on His faithfulness. Let us take every step this year with confidence that He is with us, leading us through every challenge to His ultimate plan for our lives.
Comments