February 16, 2026 - Numbers 21-24

So much has happened up to this point.  Elders appointed.  Prophets among the people approved by God.  Quail and sickness.  Opposition to Moses from his own brother and sister.  The spying out of the land and the unfaithful and faithful reports of the spies.  Israel's rebellion and Moses’ intercession for the people.  Israel defeated in battle.  The Sabbath broken.  Korah’s rebellion and the Lord's affirmation of Moses as leader.  Additional instructions.  Miriam’s death.   More complaining by the people because of a lack of water and the gushing of water from the rock.  Moses’ failure to uphold God as holy before the people.  Aaron’s death.  Israel beginning to bump up against various enemies as she makes her way to Canaan, including the story of Balak and Balaam and his donkey and prophecies.  This is just an amazing story!  It's a story to remember and celebrate.  This is no mere Hollywood spectacle, it’s the story of God's amazing provisions and care for his people, and all this leading, ultimately, to the sending of the Redeemer.  The story never grows old.

Tell me the old, old story

Of unseen things above,

Of Jesus and His glory,

Of Jesus and His love.

Tell me the story simply,

As to a little child;

For I am weak and weary,

And helpless and defiled.

Tell me the old, old story;

Tell me the old, old story,

Tell me the old, old story

Of Jesus and His love.   -- Kate Hankey (1866)