Day 063- The Bible Recap

The LORD gave the Israelites the victory over the king of Arad. But when they had to take the long way around, because they weren't granted passage by Edom, they began complaining and grumbling again. Whenever circumstances got difficult this seemed to be their response. Truly makes me consider how I handle difficulties and unmet expectations in my life. The quickest and easiest thing to do is complain. The hardest thing to do is trust for a solution.

In their grumblings there is also usually a reference to how much better it was in Egypt...but they were held captive and distraught. Comparison is a thief of our joy and it's such an easy trap to fall into...I know I am guilty.

In response to their discontent the LORD sent fiery serpents upon them and it was only when the people began to die that they asked for forgiveness. Graciously the LORD allowed them to look upon a bronze serpent that Moses lifted up in order to live. In all the chaos it took them trusting in the LORD to save their lives. Later in John 3:14-16 Jesus will reference this moment when speaking to Nicodemus. Jesus was lifted up on a cross to save those who believed in Him.

As the Israelites continued on they began singing songs of praise to the LORD. He was with them and allowed them to defeat two kings along the way.

Word most likely got to King Balak who hired Balaam out of fear of the Israelites. I'm not sure what to think of Balaam. I remember in Leviticus 19:26 the LORD spoke against divination and fortune telling, but God had a purpose and plan for Balaam.

God's anger with Balaam wasn't because he listened and went but because his heart wasn't obeying for the right reasons...it was set on material things. God used a talking donkey to get Balaam's attention and get his heart back into alignment with His plan.