February 24, 2017: SOAP #2640:  Numbers 14-16; Mark 3

Scripture:  Numbers (NIV) 14:4 And they said to each other, “We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt.” 
5 Then Moses and Aaron fell face down in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there.
6 Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes 7 and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. 8 If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us.  9 Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them.”

Observation:  Yes, the LORD was with Israel.  They had visible proof of His Presence.  They had been led to the entrance of the Promised Land by a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night.  That very morning they had gathered the “manna” God had provided daily for their food.  The water they drank came from the rock that miraculously followed them through the wilderness.  They had seen God express himself on Sinai.  It was not too long ago that they witnessed Pharaoh’s army destroyed in the Red Sea.   Yet they let the report of the ten spies fill them with fear.  How illogical!     

Application:   I need to be careful not to let the world fill me with fear when I also have so many reasons to walk in faith.      

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, as I look to the future, keep reminding me of Who You are and what you have already done!  Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!