There’s something about sin even Christians commonly forget about or ignore: consequences.
After God miraculously liberated Israel from 400 years of Egyptian slavery they made what would become a costly, even fatal, decision to disobey God’s command to occupy the land he had promised them.
The consequence? They spent 40 years on a journey that should have lasted 11 days.
Let that sink in for a moment.
It wasn’t distance that stood between them and the Promised Land. It was the condition of their hearts.
Has God told you so do something?
Don’t allow fear or indifference to prevent you from trusting God and courageously obeying him, knowing he “is with you wherever you go.”
On the night before he was crucified, Jesus made this principle crystal clear as he encouraged his disciples: “If you love me you will do what I say.”
Two of Israel twelve tribes had petitioned Moses with a request. Moses granted their request, but with one caveat: they had better follow through or there would be consequences. Moses warned them:
“But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out. – Numbers 32:23
The imagery behind the Hebrew “will find you out” is chilling. It suggests the consequences of your sin will stalk you like prey. And it’s impossible to escape it.
Solus Christus, Nick