Then Israel made this vow to the Lord: "If you will deliver these people into our hands, we will totally destroy their cities."
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The Lord listened to Israel’s plea and gave the Canaanites over to them. They completely destroyed them and their towns; so the place was named Hormah. - P58
The Israelites quickly forget God’s faithfulness and become impatient. They complain about their journey and speak out against God and against Moses. Their sinful attitude results in God sending venomous snakes among them and many people die of their bite. - P60
When the people realize their error, they ask Moses to pray that God would take the snakes away. Moses does but the people do not receive exactly what they ask for: the snakes do not magically disappear. - P60
Rather, God provides a way for the people to live even after being bitten. They must look at the bronze snake Moses set on a pole to receive salvation. This foreshadows the salvation later to be received by those who look to the crucified Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. - P60
The king of Arad hears about the Israelites coming down the road and decides to attack and capture some of them. The king is asserting his dominance, showing his strength over other nations. Israel, however, turns to God, asking for His help in battle against the Canaanites. - P60
He listens to their plea, and Israel triumphs. - P60
When challenges and attacks come our way, we may feel discouraged and be tempted to give up. However, we should remember that we do not have to fight our battles alone. We have access to a mighty and powerful God who cannot be defeated. - P60
We can turn to Him at any time to ask for help in both big and small challenges. - P60
"It‘s not the pain that transforms us. It‘s Jesus‘s presence in the pain."- Sarah Walton - P60
Heavenly Father, thank you that I can always turn to You no matter what difficulties I face. - P61
When I become impatient and complain to You, please remind me of Your faithfulness, goodness, and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P61
Israel continues its journey through the wilderness, encamping at variouslocations. God provides water for the people at the well of Beer and Israelcommemorates it in song. The Israelites move on into the wilderness, arrivingat the valley in Moab. - P63
So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone wasbitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived. - Numbers 21:9
Praise Praise God for being the source of our salvation.
Confession Have you been harboring a complaining heart this week? Confess it before Godand receive His forgiveness.
Thanksgiving Thank God for the new life that He offers to all those who look to Jesus forsalvation.
Petition Ask God to make your life a clear reflection of who Jesus is so that many will receivelife in Him through your testimony. - P65
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