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.
My Jesus has “pardoned” me so very often…even when, after witnessing SO MANY SIGNS in my life, the life of my ancestors and Scripture, I have been faithless.
Lord Jesus, forgive me when I allow the memory and knowledge of your unfailing and repeated grace and mercy poured over me to make me lax with my obedience and devotion to You. Oh my Saviour, I know there are consequences…but, You have spared me so often. Guide my heart and mind to You always. Blessed be Your name.
@CHURCHMOUSE – Thank you for “I fall short yet I know He has His heart set on me (Dt.7:7). His great love encourages me to repent and His discipline draws me closer. God has been and is faithful to me. May I be faithful to Him.”
@Kiera E God will honor your desire for him. Scripture reading is often a cumulative thing and you will see him in surprising ways. When I first started Bible Study Fellowship I had 3 young children. I can’t tell you specifics of what I learned but I noticed that I had much more patience with my kids. I’ve known Jesus a lifetime and I’m still discovering new things. Do what you can to focus on God. He will honor your steps toward him.
@Dorothy Saller, I find Morgan Harper Nichols to produce lovely encouraging work on Instagram. You might look her up. I think she is a Christian but I’m not positive.
So powerful, churchmouse! The Israelites were focused horizontally on their circumstances and all the ways they wished life was, a trap so so easy to fall prey to. Joshua and Caleb were focused vertically on Jesus and his promises. They trusted. They had faith.
Yes, Churchmouse. So very well said!
Churchmouse here is your post. I was able to copy it from the website for you.
God knew the fickleness of His people. He commanded them to completely destroy the pagan nations lest they entice them to idolatry. God required faithfulness but they proved to be fair-weather followers. How like them I can be. I’m sometimes slow to remove myself from that which distracts me from full devotion to the Lord. I can be a fickle and fair-weather follower rather than a faithful one. God desires an unwavering allegiance to Him and steadfast obedience to His Word. I fall short yet I know He has His heart set on me (Dt.7:7). His great love encourages me to repent and His discipline draws me closer. God has been and is faithful to me. May I be faithful to Him.
God knew the fickleness of His people. He commanded them to completely destroy the pagan nations lest they entice them to idolatry. God required faithfulness but they proved to be fair-weather followers. How like them I can be. I’m sometimes slow to remove myself from that which distracts me from full devotion to the Lord. I can be a fickle and fair-weather follower rather than a faithful one. God desires an unwavering allegiance to Him and steadfast obedience to His Word. I fall short yet I know He has His heart set on me (Dt.7:7). His great love encourages me to repent and His discipline draws me closer. God has been and is faithful to me. May I be faithful to Him.
I highly recommend taking one of Jen Wilkins’ studies. She teaches you how to read and understand scripture and her intention is Bible literacy.
It can be so hard to feel Him at times. We all go through this.
Father, I lift up Kiera to You and ask for You to comfort and guide her closer into Your presence. May she feel Your Spirit with her even now. Give her peace and understanding as she goes through her studies and seeks You. Thank You for her obedience and the desires of her heart. May Your will be done, in Jesus’ name, AMEN.