Numbers 9:21-22. “And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by night or by day that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed. Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed.”
CIRCUMSTANCES. What to do when questions arise – how shall we act, what is the right? Defiled by death of another – offer or not? In a distant journey – shall we keep the Passover or not? Circumstances can guide us – God says, “Keep the Passover.”
What happens if I can but don’t bother – because I am busy? Are you clean, not tainted by externals? Are you at home – near enough to be there? Keep the Passover, or be cut off.
Life is busy - we are used to this place. The garden we planted is growing well. The cattle are getting fat and the sheep are ready to shear. The cloud rises and you must move – in spite of circumstances.
We’ve traveled far – it is time to rest – the cloud stops and lowers. Ahh, finally some respite from the dust of animals and feet. Two days later – the cloud rises – “Get the cows and sheep, Move out. The cloud is moving forward.”
Another few miles toward home and we stop again; God knows the circumstances demand time to halt. Days and months of inactivity, except the daily routine. For whatever reason, circumstances dictate the stopping time.
The night is dark, and suddenly the light over the tabernacle rises. “Get the children up. Gather the stock. Drop the tent. Circumstances demand we move out now. Don’t question God.” He knows what is best and uses circumstances.
We don’t have to understand everything that God allows. We accept the fact that He knows what is right and what is best. He can, and does use circumstances – good or bad. His will is that when we finally get home, we are ready
Each step of the way is important to Him – but may seem so hard to me. The circumstances God allows may be questioned at length. But when the journey is over, and the goal has been reached; Each step on the road will seem nothing, when we get to the end of the way.
“Father in heaven: there are questions that arise from time to time that I cannot answer because I don’t know the answer. When it comes to the offering of praise and worship, I am clear – it is my privilege and duty to worship God in spirit and in truth. I am ready, I think, to make any moves that are obviously God’s will. Help me to keep my eye on the cloud of Thy leading. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”