Scripture Reading: Numbers 1:1-54, Numbers 2:1-34, Exodus 29:45-46, Revelation 21:9-22
The maps of our lives rarely look the way we expect them to. I talked to my friend Sissy about this recently as we sat together in the She Reads Truth podcast studio, acknowledging the aches and uncertainties of being human. A counselor with over thirty years experience ministering to families, Sissy described an exercise where she asks kids to make a timeline of their life so far, drawing mountains and valleys to represent the happy and hard things they’ve walked through. It’s sobering to realize that even young children have painful events and difficult seasons that they can look back on and name.
When I consider what a map of my life might look like, there are detours and dark places, unexpected joys and mountaintop moments. There’s also an invisible thread that runs through it all—a thread I trust my own children will one day see. God’s character is constant, and His presence pursues me.
The Old Testament book of Numbers is a kind of map. It is an account of Israel’s indirect journey from Mount Sinai to the Jordan River, the forty years between their rescue from Egypt and their arrival at the border of the promised land. Their wilderness wandering—a consequence of their disobedience—is testimony of God’s holiness. And it is a testimony of God’s faithfulness, the setting in which God demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His people by pursuing them with His presence.
Numbers is a redemption story, but not just for the generation of Israelites who ate the manna and drank water from the rock. It is a redemption story for all nations and generations! Through the person and work of Jesus, we are all invited into the presence of the God whose holiness and compassion are like no other. Jesus Christ is the bread of life, the living water, the one whose perfect obedience redeems our wandering souls.
Wherever you stand on the timeline of your life, I believe God will meet you here as we read His Word together. By the kindness and power of the Holy Spirit, may we come to understand more fully the beauty of obedience and the goodness of God’s grace. The Lord goes with us! Thanks be to Him.
Written by Amanda Bible Williams
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63 thoughts on "Organization of the Camp"
Amen
I have been struggling with this here recently. I believe God brought me here to read this. Gods love will never fail nor become faint. He is pure & he is constant.
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Good word!
Due to technical difficulties I’m starting the reading out pretty late. It gives me hope that even after everything the Israelites did their names are still written on the gated of new Jerusalem.
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Never read the Bible before new Christian here so excited to start a book about trusting the lord
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I am 8 days late into this study. I just found it.
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Amen
Amen!! Coming in a day late…but lifting up the prayer requests!
Thankful for this study and looking forward to it! I know that no matter how many times I read anything in Scriptures, there is always more to glean, to learn! God’s Word is truly alive and active!
@EMMA S: I believe that David was rebuked when doing the census because of pride. He counted the military numbers with the heart intention to show off, and implying his “power” depend on men and the military statistics. It was the heart posture that God saw.
Thank you ladies for your prayers. We are flying out tomorrow (Tuesday PM). I doubt if I could sleep tonight. Just like when I was a kid, getting excited for the long trip and I stayed up. I will be having internet and I will be reading along. It’s 12 hours ahead of time difference so I might comment earlier :) praise God. I was nervous but praise the Lord something was shifted and my spirit felt light. Thank you for interceding for me.
@D W: prayers for your mind to be taken off the situation with your adult daughter, and may the next few days of conference be full of joy, unexpected strengthening and God’s showing up.
@RHONDA J: so glad the concert was good. I have never been to one, and may this be on my soon bucket list ;)
@Foster Mama:❤️
@Julia C: ❤️
Be blessed dear sisters.
Thanks!
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Selah
Sarah D- praying for you!! God is in control.
Question! Why was census-taking allowed at this time but not later on in scripture e.g. during David’s reign?
Maybe because David counted the Levites too and God had previously ordered them here in Numbers to not be counted but appointed over the Tabernacle? Good question pushed me to dig deeper into the Bible.
Love the OT!! I’m excited to dive deep into these readings. Those numbers were many I can only imagine and I also noticed how God specifically called certain people to certain tasks like the Levites guarding the tent to the specific places where they placed them etc. So detailed
Morning …
In response to Sarah D today 04/29/24 at 1:57p
Sarah let your “friend” pursue you . The Lord knows your heart and your desire to be married and have children. Trust in the Lord with all your heart . Don’t worry about what you said or did not say.
As you speak to your “friend” in the future ask for godly wisdom in your conversation (this should include anyone you are speaking to)
that you are lifting them up and speaking in psalms and spiritual uplifting . My heart goes out to you today . May you find courage , strength, peace, provision and protection as you daily allow The Lord to be your husband . You are not alone , for The Lord is with you ,
Hi ladies,
Praying for you all. Would love your continued prayers for me…this weekend was good and hard. Got to see my “friend” Saturday at our game night and Sunday at church…no ask out yet though. It was hard for me last night as I went to a kids’ musical at our church…I desire to have kids of my own to teach about Jesus. To have a marriage that reflects Christ and the church. It’s hard to keep waiting, when I desire this so much and even more so, because I see a godly man who I think is actually pursuing me. The last guy I liked, he was not pursuing, and I can see that now…I have to trust that God’s timing is perfect…and surrender control. It is a moment by moment thing for sure. I have been praying that God would make my love story an “only God” story…I want him to be the center. I also always notice things I could’ve done or said when I’m around my friend…things I could’ve done to show more interest…but, if the Lord wants it to happen, he will make it happen. I have found if I try to take the reins, it doesn’t pan out. I have to let him pursue…and wait and trust and surrender control in the meantime. Thank you all in advance for your prayers!!
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There is a person who places inspirational quotes, bible verses, etc on a homemade poster board sign in their front yard on a busy street in my town. This is the route I take 4 times a day while doing my drop off/ pick up of kiddos for school. I look forward to their message every week and I just had to share this weeks message was “Character over circumstance”. Initially when I saw this I thought -“yea that’s a a good one” then I came home and read SRT and noticed Amanda’s key statement (along with the books opening statement) is “Gods character is constant and His presence pursues me” ! If God isn’t screaming to me about character today I don’t know who is!!! Lifting up each and every one of your prayers this morning as well as my own prayer that we focus on the character of Christ when the devil gets a hold of our ears! ☮️❤️ to you all this Monday!!!
Good Morning She’s!! So happy to be in community with you all as we begin this new study! @Rita Ann prayers lifted for your hubby
Hi She’s!
Numbers! I love looking and studying the OT!
This past wkd was SO amazing in so many ways. Spending time on the outside with my dear friend Stacy! I picked her up for church, lunch, and shopping for her NEW beginning!! We praised, we sang, cried, and laughed. It was beautiful. From ashes comes beauty and restoration! I am believing God has redeemed her and broken strongholds! Then last night I was able to go see Brandon Lake and seeing thousands praising and singing of Jesus and what he has done, doing and WILL do!! God is moving in HIS presence, through the valleys and on the mountaintops!! Lord, keep working in me, pruning where you see fit, and making me more lush and full of coming blooms! Grow my roots in the word, and make me strong, immovable, although I may bend I won’t break!! I want to flourish like I feel this weekend and never forget and tell what my Savior has done for me!!
@Linda G, thank you for stopping to write us a note! Happy Anniversary and prayers for your surgery and for your daughter…may she have a blessed and amazing time with you!!
@Maria Baer- This is so great with your baptism!! I know what it’s like seeing others heed to the call! I help organize ours once a month, and the number keeps growing and we had 8 spontaneous last time, total 22!! God is moving!!
Good to see new names and all of ya’ll!! Isn’t good to know how the story ends…seeing how it started with God taking his people out of Egypt and leading them and laying out the instructions, and we to have clear and simple instruction of how to live for God through Jesus Christ! He gives us the Holy Spirit to help and guide us!! Stay in that truth today and know that whatever season you are in, he is right there with you!! Father God, we pray for all of our She’s that have their names here or are reading along for the first time or for more, I pray you bless them and pull them in tight to you so they feel your presence, but regardless of the emotion, we stand on your truth that TELLS US you are right here with us! You said it so we believe it in faith! You are the Same God, yesterday, today, and tomorrow!! We will PRAISE you, He IS WORTHY of all of OUR PRAISE!
Amen!!!
Good morning She’s. May I ask for prayer for Doug, my husband as he goes in this morning for a heart procedure. God has held him in His arms through other procedures and we know He has Doug this morning too. So grateful for His mercy and grace.
I’ll be praying for Doug!
I believe my timeline would reflect the hills and valleys but the one constant would be that I was never alone. God was always with me! I may have not realized it at the time but when I look back, I can see His hand in everything! He had walked with me through difficult times and used them to develop my character. I’m 68 and He still is teaching me lessons, work by on my character. We have a good Father who sees us every step of the way and never leaves us!
“God’s character is constant and His presence pursues me.” Such a beautiful and good reminder! Excited for this study!
@ D W, nothing is too small or insignificant here. YOU are important! YOU matter! Of course we will be praying the the situation between you and your daughter and for strength to perform at the conference. Praying For YOU D W.
Thank you. I have felt the prayers.
@ MICHELLE P — I forgot to mention I’m of course praying for them (silly me). I remember hearing years ago that the enemy loves nothing more than to destroy churches and the churches built in our homes.
@ MARIA BAER and @ DARLENE FIMBRES — Uh!! Nothing better (I wish I could send you several celebratory emojis)…. Welcome!!
@ MICHELLE P — I’m glad the Spirit lead me to tell you about the Google thing…Our hearts know who you are ❤️ :D
@ LINDA IN NC — Thank you for the beautiful spirit with which you wrote yesterday…I felt so much love welling up in my heart as I read your words; prayer for your husband and daughter’s time together, your surgery and recovery! Just recently celebrated silver anniversary… Praising Jesus for your milestone
@ MERCY — I hope you have reasonable internet while you are away; praying for every aspect of your trip and remembering many things you have shared over the last long while. I am wrapping you in hugs.
@ SEARCHING — Praying for Shannon and family
@ MIA FAITH — ❤️
@ MARI V — What you shared re: your son remembering a few car repair things he learned from his father is absolutely beautiful & healthy (in my humble opinion) — seeing there is good to be gleaned.
I don’t comment often but I read your comments daily and pray for the requests. This is vague, but I could use prayer today for a family situation with my adult daughter. I am feeling very sad and hurt and trying to process it well. I have to work and be around lots of people the next two days at a conference and need strength to pull that off with smiles. Lack of sleep and tears have me not feeling well this morning. I need God’s perspective and comfort. I know this situation is small in relation to what so many of you walk through, so I feel bad asking for prayer, however I know you are all prayer warriors and I could use some extra prayer the next few days. Thank you.
You are not alone! I am praying for God’s peace over you
Prayers for whatever you are walking through ❤️ God cares no matter how big or small the situation
Congratulations to @DARLENE FIMBRES as well and God bless this new mark of your journey with Jesus. ♥️
Thank you @Julia and @Searching for your prayers ♥️
Good morning, Shes ♥️
Thank you for your prayers again ♥️
@Linda in NC – you and @Lynne were on my heart last week in your caregiving… God sees everyone here who is sacrificing to care for their families, spouses, etc. praying you continue staying close to the One who gives us the strength to care and tend to other’s needs. Love you ladies ♥️ happy 61 years of marriage! Wow. That is incredible. ♥️ God bless you and your daughter, may she have safe travels and a blessed time with you and your husband, as you recover from cataract surgery, Linda. ♥️
@Maria Baer- congratulations on your baptism!!!! How awesome and special ♥️
Happy new study, Shes! Love you ladies. ♥️
Good morning She’s – happy Monday! …right off the bat we see that God is a God of order. He meticulously gives His instructions to Moses. He always has a plan and a purpose – not just for the Israelites in the Old Testament, but also for each one of us! Thank you God!!
@Linda in NC – praying for you as you continue to care for your sweetheart of 61 years – Happy Anniversary!..We sang The Goodness of God yesterday during praise and worship – love that song!
@Lynn in Alabama – praying for you as well as you care for your sweetie. May God strengthen you, Linda and all those caring full time for their loved ones.
Blessings to you all!
Amen
DARLENE FIMBRES – Congratulations to you, too, on your baptism! I missed that Saturday. ❤
SEARCHING – Continued prayers for Shannon and her family. May God comfort them.
LYNNE FROM ALABAMA – Prayers for you and Steve. May God give you both strength and peace.
MERCY – I hope you and yours arrived safely at your destination. Praying for a good time with your family. May God restore broken/dificult relationships.
COLLEEN DEVEAU – I am so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you and your friend’s family.
MICHELLE P – Joining you in prayer for your friend Isabel and her husband Benyi. May God restore their marriage.
MARI V – Praying for your son. May God provide and guide him.
DARLENE FIMBRES & MARIA BAER – Welcome to God’s family! ❤️
LINDA IN NC – Praying for strength for you & your husband and safe travels for your daughter. God is near.
LOVE this:
“God’s character is constant, and His presence pursues me.” -Amanda Bible Williams
“God’s character is constant, and His presence pursues me. …
Through the person and work of Jesus, we are all invited into the presence of the God whose holiness and compassion are like no other. Jesus Christ is the bread of life, the living water, the one whose perfect obedience redeems our wandering souls.”
Thank you, AMANDA BIBLE WILLIAMS, for this great intro devo!
Thankful He is my LORD, my God. There should never be any other.
SEARCHING – ❤ That verse always reminds me of that song, too – one of my favorites also (with a very special memory).
LINDA IN NC – I am so glad to hear from you!!! Congratulations in your anniversary! Praying for your daughter’s travel and her time of care giving and that all goes well with your surgery and recovery!
Thanks for checking in! You remain on my heart.
MARIA BAER – How exciting! Congrats to you!!! ❤
Praying along with you all! ❤
Such precision and detail… and obedience. May we, sweet She’s, be obedient like that.
Have a blessed Monday.
Amen and happy Monday all ❤️
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I’m so thankful,even tho I’ve not commented in a very long time, I’m still remembered by my sister she’s! Life has been busy with care giving becoming more consuming each week. Covid in December caused a worsening of my sweetheart’s memory. God has been so good in giving g strength day by day. Sure I get tired and frustrated but He is always with me. We have never been promised a life without suffering. But we are promised the Lord’s presence continually. I see His strength made perfect in my weaknesses daily.
A song that continues to run through my mind and heart is “The Goodness of God”. Truly He has been faithful and good ALL my life.
As of March we have been blessed with 61 years of marriage! PTL
Our daughter will be visiting us the week to help with her Dad while I have cataract surgery. This will be the first time she has cared for him by herself. Prayers please for her as she travels. Those who are caregivers are constantly on my heart. Prayers for each of you in every need and every victory❤
Amen
Also, thank you for the wonderful messages yesterday about being baptized. It was THE BEST DAY EVER! But what made this day even better, it wasn’t about me. There were 5 scheduled people for baptism, myself included, but at the end of the service, there was extended worship time, and an invitation to anyone who felt the call to be baptized, to do so. Y’all, about 8 people of so, a mix of ages, came forward and were baptized. Praise Jesus for this! The Spirit was in the midst and you could feel the electricity. Such a wonderful day. Thank you again!
I’ve always been intrigue by the early books of the OT, so I am looking forward to this study. And right off the bat, I’m in awe of the specificity of God’s directions to Moses. Whenever I read Scripture that is specific like this— about census,lengths, widths, positioning, etc.— I always wonder why. I don’t know the answer, but I feel it has to do with obedience; if his people can obey even in those details, they will hopefully obey with the important stuff. Maybe a foreshadowing of what is to come.
God’s plan … our disobedience. What a contrast, and yet. In my wandering and straying with my back firmly turned to God, He continued to draw me back to Him. It didn’t take 40 years but it did take many years and I am ever so thankful He never turned His back on me.
May we seek to be on His path for us.
BG’s verse today is Job 19:25 which begins with “ For I know that my Redeemer lives” and I thought of one of my all time favs, Reedemer by Nicole C Mullins.
Praying for our caregiving sisters – LYNNE FROM AL, NANCY S, LINDA IN NC, GRAMSIESUE and others.
MICHELLE P – praying for healing of your friends’ marriage.
“The Lord spoke to Moses in the tent of meeting in the Wilderness of Sinai, on the first day of the second month of the second year after Israel’s departure from the land of Egypt…These are the names of the men who are to assist you.”
God knew these men’s (and I’m sure every one’s) name. He appointed them. ❤️
Praying for your request. Have a blessed Monday
“Their wilderness wandering—a consequence of their disobedience—is testimony of God’s holiness. And it is a testimony of God’s faithfulness, the setting in which God demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His people by pursuing them with His presence.”
— Thank you, AMANDA BIBLE WILLIAMS ❤️
Dear Father,
Thank You for Your constant character, for pursuing me with Your presence.
Remind me of your holiness and faithfulness when I am wandering through the wilderness.
“May we come to understand more fully the beauty of obedience and the goodness of Your grace.”
AMEN.
Amen
Amen.
Thank you AMANDA BIBLE WILLIAMS..
Looking forward to this study with you all dear She’s.
Happy Monday wrapped always in love, hugs and prayers, requested or felt to prayer for..♥️