READY, SET, SEEK GOD

READING: GENESIS 33:12-17

Verse 15: “Then he said to Him, ‘If your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.’”

Moses wanted to be absolutely certain he was following God as he led the Israelites. He didn’t want to move without the assurance of the leadership of the Lord. He knew very well and without a doubt, that failure would occur if it were to be otherwise. Unfortunately the Israelites later lost sight of this important principle that was practiced under Moses. Following their spectacular victory at Jericho under the leadership of Joshua, they presumptuously attacked the city of Ai. The attack was based on the observation that the city was small and the resulting conclusion that victory would come easily. They failed to first consult with the Lord. If they had done so, they would have learned there was sin in the camp. It was sin that needed to be addressed before they attempted to fight a battle. Their failure to seek the Lord caused there to be unredeemed sin present, which caused their defeat in battle. This is another of countless scriptural lessons all of which repeat the same principle. This principle is neatly summarized by Ephesians 5:17. “Do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Without the leadership of the Lord, we can expect defeat, failure and ruin. With Him, nothing will be impossible. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. How did the Israelites arrive in a posture where they failed to seek the Lord before acting?

2. How can today’s Christians avoid the trap that the Israelites experienced?