This week we finished the Book of Hebrews and have started on the Book of Numbers. The book gets its name most likely from the two censuses that are taken in chapters 1 and 26. However, Jewish readers most commonly refer to the book by a word that is more descriptive of the time in Israel’s history spent in the wilderness. Though the book at some parts feels like another round of rules and regulations, similar to Leviticus, the rules given in the book of Numbers deal with the laws and regulations for Israel while they are on the march. Numbers is one of the longest books in the Old Testament and ends at the final encampment before entering the Promise Land.

At the beginning of this week you read Psalm 30 and reflected on how God treats the down and out. Notice the imagery used and how the author describes being rescued and pulled up from the grave, out of the ground and restored. Ultimately it is a psalm of confession and thanksgiving.

Spend just a few moments this week writing down what you are thankful for. When was a time when you acted as if you did not need God? Have you ever experienced God turning a season of lament into a season of dancing?

Cole Beshore