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.
I really want to know Him but I can’t feel Him.
I really want to understand scripture but when I read it I don’t get it.
In everything we do, God will continue to pursue us and offer salvation. It is through him we gain forgiveness and redemption. How amazing we get to be reunited with him in heaven.
To quote my Pastor, the cross of Christ is where the Justice of God met the grace of God and the rightful wrath of God was satisfied in Christ Jesus and objects of wrath (you and me) become objects of affection.
God’s justice must be meted out, but thank God for a path to redemption through his son, Jesus, whose blood covers over our sin and rebellion.
Dorothy Saller, sometimes all someone needs to hear is “I love you” “God loves you” “I’m praying for you” “how can I pray for you today?” Scripture is a wonderful addition to that.
I loved connecting Caleb here back to the Joshua study as well! The Lord honored His promise decades later because of Calebs faithfulness.
This passage is such a clear example of God’s justice AND mercy. It seems like those two things should not be able to exist perfectly in one being but somehow they do. And this mercy and justice culminates in Jesus- the perfect payment required by justice, given by a merciful God.
Justice demands a debt be paid. Mercy finds a way for the debt to be paid without costing the offender the price of her soul.
Sisters I would like to ask for your help, I would like to start sending my sister daily encouragement. It doesn’t have to be scripture just some words of encouragement. Thanks