according to my textbook, "numbers...is a complex story of unfaithfulness, rebellion, apostasy, and frustration, set against the background of God's faithfulness, presence, provision, and forbearance." the book is divided into three main sections, sort of in three different geographical settings "to mark the main stages of the wilderness march." these sections are as follows: sinai, kadesh, and moab. so, starting in this first section, (and specifically chapters 1-4)...we encounter preparations for departure from the wilderness. there is a first census of the people taken in chapter 1 (the levites being exempted). arrangement of the camps is recorded in chapter 2 and instructions for the duties of the priesthood (the levites) in chapters 3 and 4.
originally, the book of numbers was untitled. numbers was adopted by later translators because of its census lists. according to my reference text, "an obvious purpose of the book is to record the period from the encounter with God at sinai to the preparations in moab to enter the promised land. however, far more than this is involved...." it goes on to indicate that the journey from sinai to kadesh-barnea on their route would normally have only taken eleven days, but that their voyage was a thirty-eight year period which was a consequence for their lack of faith..."none of the unbelieving generation was allowed to enter the land."
--personal thoughts--
my prayer in this quiet hour as i write...Lord, increase my faith in Your character...in Your FAITHFULNESS. i feel sad for the israelites' lack of faith...i want to know You and Your closeness/Your character...and not just so that i won't miss something wonderful in my life/future (as the israelites did/not being permitted to enter canaan)...but so that i won't miss YOU, Father. You are faithful...thank You. thank You for Your faithfulness to the israelites, and thank You for Your consistent, never-ending, never-failing, perfect faithfulness to me, Lord. i love You....
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