Read Numbers 8 – 9
And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. Numbers 9:15 KJV
Numbers 9:15-23 describes the fiery cloud, representing the presence of God that covered the Tabernacle of Israel. I can’t help but think the cloud was an awesome sight to behold. The cloud reminded the people of Israel that God was with them; this must have been a tremendous comfort. God’s direction was never an issue; when the cloud moved, they moved and when the cloud remained still, they remained still. The cloud also gave them immediate access to God’s will through the sacrifices, and Moses, their mediator. Looking back at the descriptions of this cloud it is difficult to fully imagine. It is also difficult to understand how the people of Israel could ever grow so accustomed to this dramatic presence of God that they would ever disregard, disrespect, or disobey His presence. Of course, we have God’s Word, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and access to the Father through Jesus Christ, yet we often disregard, disrespect, and disobey Him.
Lord, it is tempting to think the people of Israel had it so easy with Your visual presence in the fiery cloud. Yet, today, we have it so much better! The presence and power of the Holy Spirit is ever within us, Your Word is ever before us for use in understanding Your will, and we can always reach up to You through the offering of Christ. We have it so good, and yet we disregard, disrespect, and disobey You so much. How grateful I am for Your grace and mercy. Help me be ever conscious of Your awesome presence in my life!
