NUMBERS 9

This chapter of Numbers detailed how the Israelites mapped out their travel through the desert... they didn’t. "Whenever the cloud lifted from above the tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped... Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out." (vs 17, 22-23)

Have you considered this idea about God lately? He is a God on the move. He is not still, static, or fixed. He is energetic, engaging, and active. He has a plan for the journey. He knows when to go and when to stay.

You’ve probably heard that old saying that life isn’t about the destination, but the journey. I think this also applies to our relationship with God. To me, it seems clear from this passage that God wants to go on a trip. We can relate to that, can’t we? We plan trips all the time. And when was the last time you planned to go on a trip alone? No, we take trips to have fun experiences with others.

Doesn’t that sound like what God is doing here? He’s got a travel plan, and He wants to take His people on a trip. He wants them to experience the immense blessing of a journey with Him. And He wants to enjoy their company along the way. Why else would He have built a sanctuary so He could dwell with them?!

God likes to travel with friends. He has a travel plan. He’s got the best, most exciting journey all planned out. Part of His fun is in living the journey with us. Now the only question is, does He have people who are willing to move when they see the cloud ascend?

God, I want to be someone who will go when You go and stay when You stay!