“At the commandment of the LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents” (Numbers 9:18).
TEXT — Numbers 9:15-22
In her book, A Slow and Certain Light, Elizabeth Elliot shares the story of two adventurers who sought her advice before embarking on a journey to the rainforest. They were well-equipped and confident, seeking only a few phrases to communicate with the locals. Elliot reflects on how we often similarly approach God – thinking we have everything we need but missing a deeper connection with Him. Instead of asking for simple answers or signs, she suggests that we should seek a relationship with God as our ultimate guide. While maps and road signs are helpful, having someone who knows the way and can lead us is far more valuable. Elliot’s message emphasizes the importance of seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection with God.
God did not give the Israelites a map or road signs to guide them in their journey through the wilderness; He went with them Himself. His presence was manifested as the pillar of cloud leading them wherever He wanted them to go. When the glory cloud moved, they moved; when it stayed still, they stayed still. This pattern continued for the entire journey. The passage highlights thus the obedience of the Israelites as they followed the cloud without question, demonstrating their trust in God’s guidance.
Today, believers find comfort in the knowledge that God continues to guide them through His presence. The Holy Spirit has taken the place of the cloudy pillar and is tasked with guiding believers throughout their journey. This guidance primarily comes from the scriptures, but other methods such as dreams, visions,and counsel from mature believers can also be used as long as they align with the teachings of the scriptures to avoid going astray.
As we reflect on how God guided the Israelites through the pillar of cloud, let us ask ourselves: are we desperate to have God’s presence with us, or do we think we can navigate through life alone? Are we following God’s leading in our lives? Do we trust Him even when we don’t understand the path ahead? Are we obedient to His guidance, even when it’s difficult? God wants to guide us not only when we want to choose a marriage partner but in all things.
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
