Traveling prayers
Today’s reading: Numbers 8:1-10:36
My selection: Numbers 10:35-36
35 And whenever the ark set out, Moses said, “Arise, O Lord, and let your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate you flee before you.” 36 And when it rested, he said, “Return, O Lord, to the ten thousand thousands of Israel.”
My reflections: Moses made it a custom to pray as they broke camp and when they rested from the march. One of their great dangers were enemies who might attack them on the way. He prayed for the Lord’s enemies to flee before Him. It is interesting the pronouns used here. He did not refer to them as Israel’s enemies but the Lord’s enemies. He did not pray for victory in war over them but that they would not even oppose them. He prayed for them to be scattered. They are identified as those who hate the Lord.
Upon resting Moses did not assume God’s continued presence with them but prayed that He might “return” to them.
My challenge: How presumptuous we can be in our going and coming when we do not pray for the Lord’s protection. When we rest we may falsely feel safe but we always should be aware of our need for His presence. Be not presumptuous of God’s protection and presence but pray for both.
Tomorrow’s reading: Numbers 11:1-13:33