Read Hebrews 4
Since the promise of entering [God's] rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. Hebrews 4:1
We must understand that there are spiritual lessons in the geography of Israel's experiences. The nation's bondage in Egypt is an illustration of sinners' bondage in this world. Much as Israel was delivered from Egypt by the blood of lambs and the power of God, so sinners who believe on Christ are delivered from the bondage of sin.
It was not God's will that Israel remain either in Egypt or in the wilderness. His desire was that the people enter their glorious inheritance in the land of Canaan. But when the Israelites got to the border of their inheritance, they delayed because they doubted the promise of God (Num. 13--14). "We are not able," wept the ten spies and the people (13:31-33; 14:1-4). "We are able with God's help!" said Moses, Joshua, and Caleb (13:30; 14:5-9). Because the people went backward in unbelief instead of forward by faith, they missed their inheritance and died in the wilderness.
What does Canaan represent to us as Christians today? It represents our spiritual inheritance in Christ. Israel had to cross the Jordan River by faith (a picture of believers as they die to self and the world). They had to step out by faith (Josh. 1:3) and claim the land for themselves, just as believers today must do.
Applying God's Truth:
Do you feel that you are "in bondage" in any way? How might faith help you experience real freedom?Do you ever want, even briefly, to return to the lifestyle you had before becoming a Christian? If so, why? How do you deal with such feelings?What do you think it means to enter God's rest?
Devotions for Confidence and Integrity ©2005 by Dr. Warren Wiersbe. Used by permission of David C Cook. May not be further reproduced. All rights reserved.