Lessons from Numbers

We can learn much from the account of the Israelites sending spies to scout the promised land. God had told them in no uncertain terms that they were going to enter and possess this land by His might, strength, and power (Num 13:1–14:38; cf. Zec 4:6)—they had nothing to worry about! Did they think that mere men could stop the promises of the Lord? This is a clear case of men not trusting in the Lord, His might and power, and the promises that He had already explicitly given them (see Mat 17:14–20).[1]

Matthew Henry writes on Numbers 13:26–33: [3]

It is a wonder how the people of Israel had [the] patience to stay forty days for the return of their spies, when they were just ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the divine power, and a constant series of miracles that had hitherto attended them; but they distrusted God’s power and promise, and were willing to be held in suspense by their own counsels, rather than be brought to a certainty by God’s covenant. How much do we stand in our own light by our unbelief! Well, at length the messengers return, but they agree not in their report.

Moreover, God had proven He was able to fulfill His promises by performing an abundance of miracles, which they saw with their very own eyes (Exo 6–12; 14)! Do you only see giants standing in your way[2] and fail even to notice the immeasurable, undefeatable, and victorious Most High and Holy Lord God of Hosts standing right there beside and with you, who goes both before you and after you (Exo 13:21; 14:19; Deu 1:30; 31:8; Isa 45:2; cf. Psa 23:1–6; 91:1–16) and says, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age [world]” (Mat 28:20)?[3]

Let us have steadfast faith in the Lord and in the promises of His Word, even when it doesn’t appear to us that He is doing anything and even for extended periods of time if necessary.

CHAPTER PRAYER

Glorious and mighty Father in heaven, hallowed be Your great name! Thank You for the assurances and promises You have given me in Scripture and the proof that You have already furnished via Your Son, Jesus, that You are more than able to accomplish everything You have said. Help me to stop doubting You and to rest in Your Spirit instead of trying to move forward on my own puny might and power. Help me go forward in courage, strength, and boldness, knowing that You have already been victorious and defeated sin, Satan, and death for me at the cross. Help me look forward in full assurance, confidence, and hope in You and You alone—for You alone are good and faithful. In Jesus’ holy and mighty name, the name above all names, I pray. Amen.