Chapter 139 of 1163

NUMBERS 33

Reviewing the past (1–49). Dr. A. T. Pierson said, “History is His story.” It is good to review the past and discern the hand of the Lord at work. God delivered them from Egypt and brought them to Sinai, where they entered into a covenant with Him (vv. 1–15). Then He brought them to the border of the Promised Land, where they refused to go in (vv. 16–36). They wandered for forty years and then ended up on the plains of Moab (vv. 37–49). Unbelief means wasted time, wasted lives, and wasted opportunities, but God is gracious and long-suffering with His people.

Anticipating the future (50–56). “When you have crossed the Jordan into the land of Canaan” was a word of promise and assurance that would encourage the nation in their new venture of faith. What a privilege to claim their God-given inheritance! But God also gave some responsibilities: drive out the enemy, destroy their idols, dispossess the people, and then divide the land. First you conquer, then you claim. First the obedience, then the blessing.

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