“And Edom said unto him, Thou shalt not pass by me, lest I come out against thee with the sword.”
Numbers 20:18 is part of the account of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their liberation from slavery in Egypt. In this particular passage, Moses and the Israelites approached the land of Edom, seeking to pass through it on their way to the Promised Land.
Context and Background: To understand the significance of Numbers 20:18, it’s important to consider the broader context. The Israelites, under Moses’ leadership, had been traveling through the wilderness for many years. They had encountered various challenges, experienced God’s provision and guidance, and witnessed His faithfulness through miracles and provisions.
The Request to Pass Through Edom: As the Israelites approached the land of Edom, Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom, requesting permission to pass through their territory peacefully. It is crucial to note that Edom was the land of Esau, Jacob’s brother, and the Israelites were descendants of Jacob. Therefore, they sought to avoid conflict with their brethren.
Edom’s Denial: However, the king of Edom refused Moses’ request. The verse in question, Numbers 20:18, records the response of Edom, stating that they would not allow the Israelites to pass through, warning that they would come out against them with the sword if they attempted to do so.
Lessons from Numbers 20:18:
- Respect for National Boundaries: The encounter with Edom emphasizes the importance of respecting the sovereignty and boundaries of other nations. Despite being descendants of the same family, the Israelites recognized Edom’s right to govern their own land.
- Patience and Trust in God’s Guidance: The denial from Edom presented a significant obstacle for the Israelites on their journey. It tested their patience and reliance on God’s guidance. Sometimes, even when we encounter hindrances or face closed doors, we must trust in God’s plan and timing.
- Dealing with Disappointment: Moses and the Israelites had hoped for a peaceful passage through Edom, but they faced disappointment when their request was denied. This teaches us the need to handle disappointment with grace and to continue seeking God’s guidance in challenging situations.
- Lessons in Conflict Resolution: The Israelites’ interaction with Edom provides insights into conflict resolution. While the Israelites honored Edom’s decision, it also highlights the importance of peaceful negotiations and seeking resolutions that minimize conflict and promote understanding.
- Overall Message:
Numbers 20:18 conveys the message that even in the midst of challenges and disappointments, God’s people are called to respect the boundaries of others, exercise patience, trust in God’s guidance, and seek peaceful resolutions. It reminds us that our journey may not always be smooth, but we can rely on God’s faithfulness to lead us through difficult situations.
By studying this verse and its context, we can gain wisdom and apply the lessons learned to our own lives, promoting peace, understanding, and reliance on God’s guidance.
