“Now Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is opposite Jericho. And the LORD showed him all the land . . .” (Deuteronomy 34:1 NAS)
Our Scripture above relates a transition taking place for the Tribes of Israel. An old era was finished and a new one was beginning. The only connection between the two would be the promise that God had made to Abraham: “To your descendants I will give this land” (Gen. 12:7).
Abraham’s descendants had never been in this land, but old leadership would not be permitted to lead them there. A new land required new leadership, new perspectives, and new methods. Yet, in all his house Moses had been faithful to the one who had appointed him (Heb. 2:2). And faithfulness was rewarded with a special dispensation: “the LORD showed him all the land.”
Moses relaxed as he went up to Mount Nebo. He had finished a complete record of the last forty years of his and Israel’s life together. Family and friends had died; food, water and clothing had been miraculously provided; laws had been given; a Sanctuary and worship had been established; so many other changes had also occurred. But God was still in control, directing Moses, preparing the way. Moses trusted God, confident in his guidance.
As God’s servant stood on the top of Pisgah, surveying the Promised Land, what might have gone through his mind? Probably a few regrets. Maybe a few wonderful memories. Perhaps a wistful desire to go into Canaan. Yet, he yielded himself to the will of God.
Consider that we too are preparing to transition from 2010 to 2011. The only connection between this year and the next is God’s promise to never desert nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5). The new year will require new perspectives, new methods, and new attitudes.
Like Moses we can relax in our confidence towards God, because no matter what the past has been, our future will be better and brighter than ever. When the new year arrives, new opportunities will come too, new victories will be there too, a wonderful land of promise. No fear because the Lord shows us the way!
Dear Father, thank you for directing our lives. Enable us to confidently accept your will in our transitions. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today as you prepare to transition,