WE have sought to gather up some lessons from the precepts that God gave to His people of old, and from His ways with them.
We have seen that they were redeemed people, set free from the cruel bondage of Egypt, and Egypt’s king; and this speaks to us of a greater redemption, and a happier deliverance than was known by Israel of old.
We have learned of the “willing heart” with which many of the people offered to the Lord, and have sought to gather from it this lesson —the Lord has pleasure in the “willing heart,” and in the offerings that flow from it.
We have considered the “holy garments,” and compared with them the wonderful robe of beauty with which the Christian is now clad.
We have dwelt on the cleansing power of the word of God, as seen in type in the water used in the laver of old.
And now let us follow Israel again in their pathway through the wilderness where yet they had to encounter many dangers and many difficulties. They had tarried long at Mount Horeb for God had much to teach them there. But once again the cloud moves on. and they make three days’ journey in the wilderness. God, in His love, was seeking out a resting place for His people. The cloud was leading, and their steps were thus directed of the Lord, and the ark of the Lord went on before them. Num. 10:33-3633And they departed from the mount of the Lord three days' journey: and the ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them in the three days' journey, to search out a resting place for them. 34And the cloud of the Lord was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp. 35And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, Lord, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee. 36And when it rested, he said, Return, O Lord, unto the many thousands of Israel. (Numbers 10:33‑36).
But alas! how hard it is to satisfy the heart of man. Notwithstanding this special love and guidance which was to conduct them to the place of rest, the people again complained. Although they had had many proofs of God’s power and of His goodness, they did not trust Him when the path seemed hard; they did not lean upon Him in the hour of trial. And as their complaints went forth the anger of the Lord was kindled against them, and He sent a fire among them which consumed many of them. But again His loving kindness was shown, for when Moses interceded for the people, the Lord removed His chastening hand.
How is it with you, dear Christian reader? Do you appreciate the Lord’s loving care and guidance? Do you ever complain when the way seems hard? Do not forget that the Lord is ordering all your circumstance, and that infinite love and infinite wisdom are at work to bring about the best results for you. The One who has marked out all the pathway, and who “knows the end from the beginning,” is directing your way. Do not then, oh, do not, murmur and thus bring upon yourself the Lord’s displeasure. Praise Him for His goodness; and trust Him in the darkest hour. It is bright above the clouds—and ere long the clouds will all be dispelled. Soon the heavenly Canaan will be reached—soon “the morning of joy” will be entered upon.
It is for you to “trust and not be afraid” instead of murmuring as Israel did. A little while and all the difficulties will be overcome, and then you will shout the glad song of victory!
ML 02/14/1904