Moving in Presumption

Moving in Presumption
From: Today God Is First by Os Hillman
October 29, 2019

"Nevertheless, in their presumption they went up toward the high hill country, though neither Moses nor the ark of the Lord's covenant moved from the camp." Numbers 14:44

The people of Israel were brought out of Egypt to enter a new land--the Promised Land. This land was not handed over to them freely; it required the removing of God's enemies through battle. It required a partnership between God and the people.

As long as the people remained true to God, they were victorious. There is a lesson here for believers today. If we remain true to God, we will also be victorious.

But...

The people were camped at Kadesh Barnea, near the border entrance to the long-awaited Promised Land. All the hardships of their journey from Egypt were now culminating at this important crossing. However, Joshua and Caleb were the only scouts who proclaimed faith in God to take them into the land and conquer their enemies. The other spies saw all the dangers and refused to take the risk. The people of the camp shrank in fear because of their report. They decided not to enter in.

Do we evaluate our circumstances before we place our trust in God? That's what they did and their circumstances caused them to lose faith and to shrink in fear.

God was angered at the people for their lack of faith. Moses had to intercede on their behalf. Once they realized what they had done, it was too late. But they thought their repentance was enough to right their wrong. They presumed this was all that was necessary.

Are we like them in their presumption? Do we forge ahead in our own strength, on our own path and when we recognize our misstep, to we presume nothing has changed in our relationship with the Lord? Do we presume he will allow us to simply pick up where we left off before our disobedience?

Moses informed them they were deceived in their presumption of God's favor. This became profoundly evident when they went to battle against the Amalekites only to be soundly defeated. They did not understand why they lost the battle.

It is important for us to know whether we have God's hand upon our endeavors. Presumption leads to failure. God's favor leads to success. Ask God to confirm His hand on your endeavors, and do your part toward that end by your obedience to his will and your following of his path.

"...If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here," (Exodus 33:15).