THE PATH OF LIFE
TEXT: Numbers 10-12
Every journey begins with a departure (Numbers 19:11-35)
They arrived at Mt Sinai after escaping Egypt
A trip of about three months
They settled there for about a year.
(During that time: God met with them. They built the tabernacle
and the ark of the Covenant God came into covenant with them
God provided water, quail, and manna. We are all called to leave
our comfort zone. If you want to see the promised land you cannot
stay where you are.)
The cloud (the sign of God) lifted from the Tabernacle
They set out to the promise land.
YOU CANNOT STAY WHERE YOU ARE
AND GO WITH GOD
Expect Adversity
(Numbers 11:1-3)
The People complain
The Lord hears it
The Lord’s anger is kindled
The fire of the Lord consumes some folks along the edge of the camp
Moses intercedes for the people
The fire died out
GOD DOES NOT REMOVE ADVERSITY,
HE TAKES US THROUGH IT
Choose your companions carefully
(Numbers 11:1-9)
Some folks are never satisfied and always want more
They have a depth of greedy desires
Embracing their company has risks
Breeds ingratitude
Breeds dissatisfaction
Breeds rebellion
WHO YOU TRAVEL WITH AFFECTS THE JOURNEY
Every Journey will have Challenges
(Numbers 11:10-17)
The People are weeping and complaining making God angry
Moses:
Is broken, “I cannot do this by myself, it is too much for me.”
Is discouraged, “If this is the way it is going to be, just kill me.”
Is despondent, “If You want to be kind, don’t let me witness my failure.”
God responds:
Get seventy quality men to help you lead.
I will handle the people’s complaint, I will feed them for a month
GOD WILL TEST YOU TO INCREASE YOUR FAITH
Criticism is a part of everyone’s journey
(Numbers 12:1-16)
Miriam and Aaron criticize Moses
They don’t like his choice of a wife (racism?)
They are jealous of his friendship with God
They are envious of his leadership
The anger of the Lord burned against them
Miriam was struck with leprosy
Moses interceded for Miriam’s healing
GOD WILL VINDICATE HIS OWN, VENGENCE BELONGS TO HIM
HOW’S YOUR LIFE?
Is God calling you to a greater adventure?
Are you disheartened by adversity?
Are you travelling with the right people?
GOD’S INVITATION ALWAYS REQUIRES FAITH!