Numbers 9:22 (KJV)
Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed.
What an incredible picture of contentment. When the cloud remained—no matter how long it stayed—they abode in their tents. But when the cloud was taken up, they journeyed.
Waiting on, or walking with, God is not meant to be routine. It’s a matter of following at His pleasure. Paul put it this way:
Philippians 4:11–12 (KJV)
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Frankly, we aren’t growing much if we aren’t going through each of these seasons. And we haven’t grown much if we haven’t learned to be content in them.
I sometimes get impatient, but to my way of thinking, it might be easier in those times when the cloud remains than when it’s taken up. For me, the busy, journeying, “hurry up to pack and get on the road” times can be the most challenging. I like settling in—getting a routine, knowing what my day holds, having a plan, and working my plan. I think I like it best when the cloud remains.
Unless, of course, it happens to remain in a place of discomfort. That happens too, doesn’t it?
- The money just trickles in, with no sign of improvement.
- The ministry seems to stagnate, with little evidence of growth.
- That health problem becomes chronic, with little chance of healing.
- For some, their marriage is not what they thought it would be.
- Or perhaps you’ve been praying with no sign of an answer.
- We might grow discontent with a government administration that opposes our spiritual ideals.
We know, don’t we, that Israel had their trouble with discontentment:
- They murmured about the lack of water.
- They murmured about the lack of variety in their food.
- They murmured about Moses’ leadership.
We’ll always have things to complain about—until we learn, as Paul taught us, “in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” And whenever we’re not content, the Lord won’t be well pleased with us, and we won’t be much pleased with ourselves.
#CloudAndFire #FollowingGodsLead #ContentInChrist #SeasonsOfWaiting #JourneyAtHisCall
The Tabernacle Cloud and the Test of Patience: Finding Peace in God’s Timing
Are you in a season of waiting, or is God calling you to move? The cloud over the Tabernacle reminds us that contentment isn’t about where we are—it’s about Who we’re following. Whether the Lord has you staying still or stepping forward, His timing is always perfect.
💬 Question for You: Which is harder for you—waiting on God or moving when He says go? Share your thoughts in the comments so we can encourage one another.
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