“Whenever the cloud lifted from over the sacred tent, the people of Israel would break camp and follow it. And wherever the cloud settled, the people of Israel would set up camp.”

Numbers 9:17 (NLT)

I have always been fascinated by how God led the children of Israel through the wilderness. There was no committee decision; they didn’t cast a vote. They simply kept their eyes on the pillar of God resting over the tabernacle. It was a sheltering cloud by day and fiery pillar by night. When it moved, they moved, and when it stayed, they stayed. They didn’t have to worry about what to do next; they simply watched and followed.

We don’t have such a guiding cloud today…or do we? Isn’t that supposed to be the role of the Holy Spirit? He is both a cloud of glory that protects and guides and a fiery presence that illuminates and refines. He leads us step-by-step in our Christian journey.

Jesus made this clear to His disciples:

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”

John 16:13 (ESV)

And the apostle Paul wrote to the Romans:

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”

Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

The Holy Spirit is willing to guide you into all truth; He can show you what to do, what to say, and when to do and say it. But are you willing to be led? Are you willing to yield control and listen for His gentle whispers? Are you willing to wait upon Him for His lead? Most people want to be in control. They are too impatient to wait upon God. They strike out on their own without the guidance of God. I have done this myself many times. Then I find myself caught in the weeds of self-doubt, discouragement and confusion. If only we would wait, watch and follow the cloud and the fire. Think how much better off we’d all be!

Photo by Photoholgic on Unsplash