JANUARY 13th, 2022      |    This is such a beautiful passage in Numbers. In the wilderness, the Lord was teaching His people (among other things) to follow. To follow Him. As we consider our purpose, one of our first considerations is to say “yes” to following Him. It is in following Him obediently that we can truly live out our purpose.

Listen to Numbers 9:22-23, “Whether it was two days or a month or a year that the cloud lingered over the tabernacle, staying above it, the sons of Israel remained camped and did not set out; but when it was lifted, they did set out. At the command of the Lord, they camped, and at the command of the Lord they set out; they kept the Lord’s charge, according to the command of the Lord through Moses.” (NIV)

Does that passage remind you at all of the heart of the Matthew passages? Matthew 4:19 says, “And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (NIV). Follow Me. Follow Me, learn from Me and I will give you rest for your souls.

From the very beginning, God was training His people how to belong to Him and to be led by Him. This clarion call from the Lord to the Israelites and from Jesus to us isn’t about travel, it’s about training. Follow me and I will train you. I will train you to love Me, to love others, to serve Me, to serve others, to hear Me, and to know Me. This invitation to follow is personal as well as corporate. It is for us individually, as a local Body, and as part of the universal Church. How are we doing at listening for the Lord’s leading in our lives? What is He training in you (or out of you) in this season?

Wherever He is leading you, it is for you to come through the other side reflecting more of His image in your character and more certain of your purpose. Thank Him for the season you are in, even if it is a difficult one.