Lifting the Cloud

“In all the travels…whenever the cloud lifted from above, they would set out; but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out – until it lifted.  So the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all…during all of their travels” Ex 40:36-38.

One of the toughest things we will be asked of as Christians is to wait on God when we are ready to move on a decision.  If only we had something as visible like the Israelites did while they were waiting on a signal from God.  They had clear manifestations of the cloud during the day and fire during the night.  They knew when the sit tight and when to pack up and walk forward.  Scripture tells us that God was visible to all during all of their travels…no exclusions…not one person was shielded from this knowledge. 

While we might not have a visible cloud and column of fire to follow, our hearts provide a tabernacle where God dwells once we have accepted Christ Jesus.  We invite Him to take up residence in the temple of our hearts, having access to Him day and night.  Wherever we go God is with us…whatever we face we face with His protection and faithfulness.  The Bible states that He is all around us continuously.  ‘The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged’ De 31:8. ‘… yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind’ Isaiah 52:12.  The Bible encourages that we will understand His guidance when we walk through the darkness.  He takes the classroom theories of faith and turns them into reality lessons for our spiritual growth.  He accomplishes all this while never leaving our side.  ‘Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them.  Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go," whether to the right or to the left’ Isaiah 30:20-21.

While the Israelites had external and visible manifestations of God, we as believers have the internal manifestation of the Holy Spirit to lift the cloud and show us the way.  He will be faithful in showing us every step of way until we see Him face to face.