Read Numbers 26
MEMORY VERSE FOR THE WEEK:
Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Highlights:
Second numbering (census) of the Israelites; law of inheritance; Joshua to succeed Moses
Almost 40 years had passed since the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. All the 603,550 adult men included in that first census, except Joshua, Caleb, and Moses had died. The second generation who were near the promised land were children when they left Egypt and were now 40 years older. The Lord spake unto Moses and unto Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest, saying, Take the sum (a census) of all the congregation of the children of Israel, from twenty years old and upward (Numbers 26:1-2). This took place in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho (26:3).
Another major event was to take place before the Israelites could enter the promised land. The Lord said unto Moses, Get thee up into this Mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given unto the children of Israel. And when thou hast seen it, thou also shalt be gathered unto thy people (will die), as Aaron thy brother was gathered (died). For ye rebelled against My Commandment in the Desert of Zin, in the strife of the congregation, to sanctify Me (be obedient to My Command) at the water before their eyes: that is the water of Meribah. . . . And the Lord said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay thine hand upon (transfer authority to) him (27:12-18).
Despite being rebuked and his great disappointment in not being allowed to enter the promised land, Moses did as the Lord commanded him: and he took Joshua, and set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation: And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge (commission) (27:22-23). Thus, without any sign of hesitation, he stepped down from leadership. Moses blessed Joshua and laid his hands upon him, symbolically transferring his leadership, which God had previously conferred upon him.
God has said that Moses was the meekest man on earth (12:3). One test of meekness (humility) is our willingness to yield our prominent position to another. Meekness is a Christlike character: I am meek (Matthew 11:29). Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another (Colossians 3:12-13). In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Philippians 2:3).
Thought For The Day:
God's appointed leaders need the prayers and support of His people.
Word Studies:
26:2 sum, census; 26:61 strange, unauthorized; profane; unlawful; 27:4 done away from among his family, withdrawn; lost to his family; 27:19 give him a charge, commission him as your successor.
Christ Portrayed:
By the man (Joshua) who would lead the people like a shepherd (Numbers 27:17). Jesus said: I am the Good Shepherd. . . . My sheep . . . follow Me (John 10:11,27).
Prayer Suggestion: Remember that God hears and answers our prayers (Isaiah 65:24).
Optional Reading: Luke 11
Memory Verse for the Week: Hebrews 4:16
