Providence

 Moses wrote down their starting places, stage by stage, by command of the Lord, and these are their stages according to their starting places.
Numbers 33:2 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/num.33.2.ESV

At first glance, this chapter might seem boring and superfluous. Yet by recording Israel's wanderings in the wilderness, Moses was recording the Lord's faithfulness in leading them every step of the way. They were inevitably going to make it from slavery in Egypt to the promised land of Canaan, because God was with them.

What does this ancient story have to do with us? Just as God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt, so He can deliver us from slavery to sin. Just as God gave Israel the promised land, so God can give us the promised new creation.

There's a famous verse in the new testament that says that 'love doesn't keep a record of wrongs'. This verse here in context teaches that love does keep a record of rights. If we're wronged, we shouldn't hold a grudge or blame God.

If we are blessed, we ought to be thankful to God and to those who bless us. Because Jesus gave Himself for us, we can inherit the Kingdom of heaven. Because He pours out His Spirit upon us, we can live lives that are honouring to Him.

'Lord God Almighty, thank You that You can lead us to the perfect new creation You're preparing for those who love You. May we follow You every step of the way, and be grateful for Your gracious leading. In Christ's name, amen'

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