Day 47

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Fiery of Serpents

Scripture

February 16—Numbers 21-25: Serpent of Brass and Story of Balaam

Observation

The wanderings are drawing to a close and the movement of the people becomes more purposeful. They are heading for the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River and are poised just opposite the Promised Land. Along the way they face both physical and spiritual conflict. Militarily, they enjoy victory over the Canaanites, Amorites, and the Bashanites. But constant grumbling about food and water results in God sending fiery serpents in judgment. The advancing Israelite horde causes the king of Moab to hire a diviner, Balaam, both to foretell the future and to curse the nation of Israel. Instead, Balaam blesses Israel and predicts how she will prosper.

Application

Are you a roller-coaster Christian? Up one day and down the next? It’s a frustrating feeling, and one most Christians would rather do without! But what is the secret to consistency in the Christian life?

In the space of a single chapter (21), the nation Israel conquered three national powers. Smashing victories! Stunning triumphs! But for some of the people it wasn’t enough. To their way of thinking God wasn’t working fast enough. After all, they were still on the wrong side of the Jordan and didn’t possess a single spadesful of the land they had been promised. Their impatience led to criticism about the living conditions, the length of the journey, and God’s timetable.

One key to consistency in the Christian life is simply giving God time to work. Rough edges take time to smooth. Growth to maturity never occurs overnight. But each day can represent a significant step in the right direction. Tuck a note in one of your shoes before you retire tonight to remind you when you awaken tomorrow of the step toward maturity the next twenty-four hours can bring with God’s help! (You might want to read Colossians 2:6-7 as you start the day!)

Prayer

Dear Lord, we want to live a life of good reports. Please help and guide us in developing a life of great faith and prayer so that unbelievers will witness us practicing our Christian faith and want to follow—all for your glory! In Jesus blessed name, amen!

Practice Christianity!




© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019

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