"And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto them."
Context:The book of Numbers is primarily concerned with the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. This particular passage occurs during their time in the wilderness of Zin, after the Israelites had been wandering for nearly 40 years due to their disobedience and lack of faith.
Explanation: In Numbers 20:6, we see Moses and Aaron, the leaders of the Israelites, leaving the assembly and going to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. The tabernacle was the portable tent of worship that served as a meeting place between God and His people during their journey through the wilderness.
Upon reaching the tabernacle, Moses and Aaron fell upon their faces in an act of humility, reverence, and submission before God. This gesture represents their recognition of God’s authority and their desire to seek His presence, guidance, and favour.
As they prostrated themselves, the glory of the LORD appeared to them. The glory of the LORD refers to the visible manifestation of God’s presence, often represented by a radiant cloud or fire. It was a sign of God’s divine presence and a way for Him to communicate with His chosen leaders.
This encounter with the glory of the LORD was a significant moment in the lives of Moses and Aaron. It demonstrated God’s ongoing relationship with them as His chosen instruments to lead the Israelites. This divine manifestation served to strengthen their faith, affirm their calling, and remind them of God’s power and authority.
Lessons and Applications:
- Reverence and humility before God:Moses and Aaron’s response of falling upon their faces teaches us the importance of approaching God with reverence and humility. Recognising God’s authority and submitting ourselves before Him opens us up to experience His presence and receive His guidance.
- Seeking God’s presence:Moses and Aaron’s intentional act of going to the tabernacle to seek God’s presence reminds us of the significance of seeking communion with God. We, too, should prioritise spending time in His presence through prayer, worship, and studying His Word.
- God’s glory reveals His presence:The appearance of the glory of the LORD highlighted God’s presence among His people. It was a visible manifestation of His power and authority. Though we may not witness such physical manifestations today, we can still experience God’s presence through faith, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and His work in our lives.
- Confirmation of God’s calling:The appearance of the glory of the LORD to Moses and Aaron affirmed their position as chosen leaders. It serves as a reminder that God equips and empowers those whom He calls. Similarly, as believers, we can trust that God will provide what we need to fulfil the roles and assignments He has given us.
- Encountering God strengthens faith:Moses and Aaron’s encounter with God’s glory would have deepened their faith and encouraged them in their leadership roles. Likewise, when we have personal encounters with God, whether through His Word, prayer, or spiritual experiences, our faith is strengthened, and we are equipped to serve Him more effectively.
In conclusion, Numbers 20:6 reveals Moses and Aaron’s act of humility and reverence as they seek God’s presence at the tabernacle. The appearance of the glory of the LORD serves as a reminder of God’s authority, His ongoing relationship with His chosen leaders, and the importance of seeking His presence in our lives.
lives.
