And they set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness that is opposite Moab, toward the sunrise.
Numbers 21:11
Lord, the three words at the end of this verse are resonating in my spirit. As I reflect upon what has just transpired – the people being plagued by serpents due to their sin – and as I look at what is ahead in the book of Numbers, it dawned on me that them camping, as Your Word puts it, “toward the sunrise” is the turning point for the Children of Israel in the book of Numbers. Their grumbling stops. Their disobedience ceases. Their dependence upon You begins. As I read those words my soul immediately was lightened, my spirit lifted up. Though they suffered a horrible judgement, being attacked by snakes, after they repented, You sent not only healing but You sent hope. And directed by You, You made them set up camp toward the rising sun!
Father, I cannot express the joy and gratitude that I am experiencing in this moment as I am reminded of Your loving kindness even when I am at my worst. As my mind’s eye imagines being one of those individuals who survived to this point, to wake up to the rising sun, seeing that bronze serpent as a reminder of what You delivered me from, I cannot help but pause to give You praise. As Your Word declares, “Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5) I confess that I often jump right to that part of the verse. But today, my soul plants itself and finds its peace in the first part of that glorious verse, “For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life…” As my soul looks into that sunrise, I am reminded of that glorious truth!
Thank You, Lord, for this unfathomable, unexplainable, and unconceivable love that You have for me! Thank You for this unfailing, undeniable, and uncanny care that You have nurtured me! Words cannot express my gratitude! I am so thankful for Your love and care. I am so thankful that You have caused me to “camp” towards Your rising Son! Thank Father! Thank You! Thank You!