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THE JOURNEY FROM KADESH TO MOAB (III)
TUESDAY, JULY 13
Deuteronomy 2:1-23

Romans 12:15-18

 

“If it be possible,
as much as lieth in you,

live peaceably with all men.”

 

THE JOURNEY FROM KADESH TO MOAB (III)
 
The following description of the physical features of Moab gives us an idea of the hardships Israel endured in passing through that land. “Moab was the district East of the Dead Sea, extending from a point some distance North of it to its southern end. The eastern boundary was indefinite, being the border of the desert which is irregular. The length of the territory was about 50 miles and the average width about 30. It is a high tableland, averaging some 3,000 feet above the level of the Mediterranean and 4,300 feet above that of the Dead Sea. The aspect of the land, as one looks at it from the western side of the Dead Sea, is that of a range of mountains with a very precipitous frontage, but the elevation of this ridge above the interior is very slight. Deep chasms lead down from the tableland to the Dead Sea shore, the principal one being the gorge of the river Arnon, which is about 1,700 feet deep and 2 or more miles in width at the level of the tableland, but very narrow at the bottom and with exceedingly precipitous banks” (ISBE). The Lord gave it to the descendants of Lot.
 
Israel was directed to the brook Zered and their journey had lasted for thirty-eight years from Kadesh. That delay was occasioned by the rebellion of Israel so that the sinful generation had to die. Moses told them that the Lord was against them and had to destroy them. This was to ensure that sin was not allowed to take root and such rebellion should not be repeated. In the wilderness wandering, God provided for them. The mention of the brook Zered shows that their camp had water from this brook. There is no indication of any dispute with the local inhabitants of the land suggesting that there was sufficient water for all. Israel here showed their obedience to the words of Moses. The Lord continued to feed them with manna. He also provided comfort for them even in those hostile conditions. What their everyday life in their camps was like can only be left to our imagination. They could have been either listening to Moses speak to them or attending to everyday necessary duties. Since the Lord was leading them, life certainly was not boring.
 
THOUGHT: God’s faithfulness is great and never fails.

PRAYER: Father, may I keep my trust focused on Thee only.

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