You have compassed this mountain long enough. Deuteronomy 2:2-3. It was the right place – for a while. God chose that stopping place – for a while. There was a time of great learning at that place – for a while. Serving God there was good – for a while, but it was never meant to be a permanent dwelling. Long years were spent in Seir – just waiting. Moses spoke of those years in a few words – because all they did was wait. Finally, the fortieth year arrived, but they were still – waiting. Miriam died, then Aaron; there were funerals by the thousands, and still they waited.
Now, the word from the Lord came: You’ve been here long enough. The old generation is gone; you have stayed here—long enough. There is nothing for you here now; it has been long enough. It is time for you to move north; you’ve been here—long enough.
We can be content and not desire any changes because we are satisfied. Your family has lived here and become accustomed to it – quite content. There are burial sites here for the older generation; if we are not careful, we will stay satisfied. You can get so used to second- or third-rate living that you remain satisfied. Rise up and move forward – leave this in the past. The people who complained are all gone; now, leave this in the past. The forty years of waiting have dragged on, but now it’s time to move on. You’ve dwelt on all the failures of disobeying God long enough; leave this in the past.
Pack your belongings and prepare to move on. Don’t hesitate to obey God this time, and in faith, move forward. Follow the guidance of the cloud and pillar as God leads, just move on and don’t look back at where you’ve been – keep moving forward. The goal is just ahead. We are still here waiting, Lord, and every day we look up. It feels like there’s so much wrong, Lord – the only thing we can do is look up. Even the governments and the money we use are falling apart. Lord, as we look up, there is a sure hope, but I am beginning to get tired and slow down, Lord. Help me to always – look up.
Father, I know there have been times when I have acted too hastily. Other times, I have hesitated, not wanting to make a move for fear of making a mistake. Now that I am more mature, I believe I am better at knowing when to move and when to stay, but I still need guidance and reassurance with each step I take. Please do not leave me to go through the days, years, and events You have planned for me. Sometimes, I feel I have surmounted this mountain long enough. I am ready, Father, for whatever is Your will. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.