The Israelites detoured around Edom who had refused Israel passage through their land. The detour through the wilderness was a long and difficult journey. They became impatient and again complained about their living conditions. Then God sent them venomous snakes that bit them. But when they repented, God graciously provided them a way of forgiveness and healing. It was not by removing the snakes. They were to believe God's way by looking at Moses' bronze snake on a pole by faith and live. Anyone who believes God's promise and looks up at Jesus on the cross will have eternal life in him (Jn 3:14-15). We start a life of faith by looking to Jesus. We run the race of faith by fixing our eyes on Jesus (Heb 12:2).

They moved on and needed to pass the Amorites' territory. When they requested Sihon king of the Amorites for passage, he refused and attacked them. They fought and defeated the Amorites and occupied the land. They also defeated Og king of Bashan and took the land. These territories were later given to the Transjordan tribes. Through these battles, God prepared Israel for the conquest of Canaan. There are times to detour and yield, and there are times to fight and triumph over. God's people should discern them prayerfully.


Application: Lord, thank you for providing me the way of eternal life. Help me to look to Jesus daily by faith daily and live.
One Word: Look up at Jesus and live.