Day 4

Numbers

from the This Is the Old Testament reading plan


Numbers 14:1-25, Psalm 86:5, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Hebrews 3:7-19, Hebrews 4:1-3

BY She Reads Truth

This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. As we read, we’ll gain a broader understanding of the redemptive story of Scripture. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. 

What Is Numbers? The book of Numbers records Israel’s failure to enter the promised land and, consequently, the nation’s forty years of wilderness wandering. The book also details the census of Israel, describes the second Passover feast, and reaffirms God’s just judgment in response to continued disobedience. 

How Numbers Fits Into the Story: By showing us how God responded to the Israelites’ unbelief, the book of Numbers emphasizes the importance of obedience in the Christian life. Numbers demonstrates that there are consequences to our disobedience, while also reminding us that God’s grace remains the same and His redemptive plan will not be stopped. 

Reflection Questions: 
1. How does Numbers 14:1–25 demonstrate God’s merciful and just nature? How do these two characteristics work together?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.

Post Comments (94)

94 thoughts on "Numbers"

  1. Katie Momose says:

    The passages from numbers make me think of how in moments of uncertainty or distress in life I too have been like the Israelites forgetting Gods goodness and his wonders and relying too much on circumstance and my own understanding. Praises for Gods mercy and steadfast love!

  2. Olivia Mathews says:

    It is so easy to read about the Israelites and think “how foolish are they?? They have seen all these miracles and still question God?!”
    Yet we do it everyday! What a humbling thought to know the God who showed them this mercy and grace is the same God who does the same for me everyday in my foolishness. This same God set the path for his only son to be a living sacrifice for all of us ♥️

  3. Olivia Mathews says:

    It is so easy to read about the Israelites and think “how foolish are they?? They have seen all these miracles and still question God?!”

  4. Skylar Rutherford says:

    13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. – 1 Corinthians 10:13

  5. Sydney Smith says:

    This reading truly had a profound impact on me today. I think we can all relate to the Israelites

  6. Olivia Whitehead says:

    Israel’s pessimism and rebellion against God challenged His perfect purpose and power. However, God’s generous forgiveness and His just judgment show that His nature is infallible.

  7. Tiffany Aleta says:

    Numbers 14:17-18 We don’t often equate “power” with “slow to anger,” “abounding in faithful love,” “forgiving iniquity and rebellion.” His character is so unlike my own. His patience abounds far beyond what I can muster. His will prevails and disobedience does have consequences, but He holds in perfect balance and tension His grace and His judgment.

  8. Amanda Gibbon says:

    God is so good. He loves us and teaches us and guides us always

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