In their journey, God’s people were guided by the cloud which hovered above the Tabernacle, the Tent of Testimony. In the evening this cloud would look like fire.
"...And whenever the cloud was taken up from over the tent, after that the people of Israel set out; and in the place where the cloud settled down, there the people of Israel encamped. At the command of the LORD the people of Israel set out, and at the command of the LORD they encamped; as long as the cloud rested over the tabernacle, they remained in camp." (Numbers 9:15-18 Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition)
Whenever at any time of day or night the cloud moved the people of God would follow Where the cloud stayed, the people stayed encamped. It was a nomadic, wandering life. There was no permanence. The people of God would go to follow the cloud which guided them.
God “appointed this cloud to be the visible sign and symbol of His presence” in them. (Matthew Henry)
The cloud stayed with them night and day. There was, however, unpredictability in their journey. The people would follow the cloud anytime anywhere they were led. When the cloud stayed and rested the people stayed. Even if at times the people found themselves comfortably settled in one place, when the cloud moved they would also go and follow. They were obedient to God’s will and direction.
It was a test of obedience.
In our life’s journey God requires our obedience to His will. Israel’s submission and obedience to God as they journeyed to the Promised Land, is a lesson in humble submission and obedience to God’s leading. Where God leads we will never be lost. At times God’s direction may be hard, difficult or unsettling because it might go against our conveniences, preferences or the usual comfort. Ultimately, complete obedience to Divine will is the only way for God’s people to find rest.
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