Numbers 33:2 –
At the LORD’s direction, Moses kept a written record of their progress. These are the stages of their march, identified by the different places where they stopped along the way.
This chapter is basically a step by step account of their wandering through the desert. This is a dry chapter until you think about it on a personal level. Here you have millions of people wandering around basically the Sinai Peninsula for 40 years with one goal and not really knowing where they are going. The only thing that is guiding them is a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. They are not away of the future direction, only what is before them at any given moment.
They are following the right leader throughout the journey. Sure they may grumble, but they have God to follow. Now apply this to your life and what is guiding you. Who do you follow? Your friends who have never known the hope of God? Your atheist teachers who never acknowledge God’s love? Or do you follow the “all mighty” dollar? If you’re not following God you will be lost in the desert, with no real hope for the future.
Now I am not saying all will be rosy along life’s path, but God will be with us and make the best of any situation. Romans 8:28 says it all, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Now it does not say tragedy will not fall on us, but that He will make the best of all that happens in our life. What does all this mean for us? It’s real simple, follow God with all your heart.
Look at Job, who suffered more than we could imagine, God made the best of his suffering. Paul was in prison most of his Christian walk, and look what came of his suffering. Finally Jesus was nailed to a cross to give us ultimate salvation! “Poo happens”, don’t let it bring your hope in the future down. Follow God and know the “future’s so bright, you gotta wear shades!”