Day 32 – Numbers: Second approach to the Promised Land

Reading: Numbers 22:1 to Numbers 36:13

“While the Israelites were camped at Acacia Grove, some of the men defiled themselves by having sexual relations with local Moabite women. These women invited them to attend sacrifices to their gods, so the Israelites feasted with them and worshiped the gods of Moab. In this way, Israel joined in the worship of Baal of Peor, causing the Lord’s anger to blaze against his people.” Numbers 25:1-3 NLT

Knowing what is right is one thing. Doing what is right is completely something different. Israel was approaching the end of their wilderness wandering and faced many trials, tribulations, threats, and wars. They encountered nations they’d never seen before and soon became a force to be reckoned with, not because of their great military progress, but because God – the Creator of all) was fighting for them.

The Moabites and Midianites could not get the prophet Balaam to curse them. In the presence of the Lord, he blessed them, infuriating his allies. They did, however, drew Israel into idol worship. This was Israel’s weakness, and with little temptation, they willingly bowed themselves before idols and immoral living – from the start of their journey – barely out of the Egyptian borders building the golden calf – to the destruction of their city.

God does not take idol worship lightly and made it very clear when He gave the Commandments to Moses. God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow which means it counts for us too. We might not worship golden calves or statues, but we worship things like social media, our image, technology, family, careers, and wealth just to name a few. Anything taking priority over time you could spend with God can be considered a modern-day idol. May we learn valuable lessons from Israel during their wilderness wanderings.

Prayer: Father, thank You for teaching us through Israel’s trials and errors how easily we can be drawn into idol worship too. Point out the idols I worship in my life and focus on seeking You above all. Amen.