Dear Girls,
I was actually reading through 1 Corinthians 9 and 10 this morning but was led by a cross reference to Numbers and happened to read these verses. They spoke to my heart and hope they will to yours also.
This cloud was a visible sign to Israel of God's special presence both night and day. At night the cloud over the tabernacle was a pillar of fire and by day a cloud. The cloud and the fire provided both guidance and protection. It is very important to note that the tabernacle was in the very center...the heart of the Israelite camp. God was their strength and He dwelt in the midst of His people! What a beautiful picture for them. When the cloud rested, the Israelites remained camped in that place. When the cloud was taken up, they broke camp...no matter how comfortable they might have been. There eyes needed to be on their God always. He led them and guided them through the wilderness. He went before them and searched out a resting place.
What a picture for us of how we are to live. He is to be the center of our life. He is to be who we look to in the morning, who we trust all the day long, and who we fellowship with before sleep closes our eyes. Live for Him and allow Him to lead and guide. Follow the leading of His Spirit in your life. Wait on Him...move at His command. Remember that He goes before you and is your resting place. Your eternal soul is your most precious possession and it belongs to God. Entrust it to His care. It came from Him and will return to Him. If it is well with your soul, all is truly well.
Wherever you find yourself, know that He has gone ahead and prepared it for you. A good shepherd will do this for the sheep of his fold. He goes before them and searches out the best tablelands for grazing. He clears out watering holes and notes dangerous places. He may spend days clearing out the poisonous plants that could make his sheep ill. The pasture chosen by the shepherd may not . have everything the sheep need to thrive so the shepherd will bring what it lacks upon his return. God is our Shepherd...how much more will he do for us...His weak and helpless sheep who have placed their trust in Him!
A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
Love
Mom
