Read Numbers 10:33-36
And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, rise up, Lord, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee. And when it rested, he said, return, O Lord, unto the many thousands of Israel. Numbers 10:35-36 KJV
Here was a significant morning and evening prayer of the people of Israel during the wilderness journeys. It left a lingering impact for years to come as David prayed the same in Psalm 68:1. In the morning they prayed for God’s leading and protection. This was to be experienced as God’s enemies would flee from before Him. Yes, God has enemies! There are those who oppose Him; who will not bow or yield to Him, and they often make life difficult for His people. So, this was a prayer for God’s victory in their daily walk. In the evening they prayed for God’s presence as they rested from the labor of the day. Both prayers require something of God’s people: that they seek to walk with God and rest with Him. To walk without God will not lend itself to resting with Him, and to rest without God will not lend to walking with Him; both are needed in the daily life of God’s people.
Lord, how dare I ever be so bold as to begin the day without your leading or protection! I am too weak to make the journey without you. Lead me and protect me as you scatter your enemies from before you. At night I too many options for resting; my best option is to rest in your presence, help me regularly choose to do so.
A question to ponder: It is so easy for God’s people to begin and end the day without God’s presence, what steps must be taken to insure we walk and rest with Him?
