Giants, kings of the past, and the “Book of YHWH’s Battles,” what possible relevance do they have on us today?
We often gloss through the books of Torah and the Writings and are met with names and events that we can’t even recognize, let alone pronounce. Consequently, we give them little credit. But in the study of Chukat, I believe there is a gem to be recognized. It deals with accepting or rejecting light—the light or truth of YHWH as found in Numbers 20-21.
Israel is a nation of people (those that wrestle with Yah and overcome) called to be a “light unto the nations.” Though how this light is received among the nations is another story. For example, Edom (descendants of Esau) did not allow Israel to come through their land. Why did this happen? If we recall, Esau refused the spiritual “birthright” that was rightfully his for a pot of red lentils. In the Scriptures, it is noted that Esau held a grudge against his brother and, I would say, Yah Himself. So, is it any wonder that Esau would continue to resist? “Edom refused to allow Israel to pass through his territory, so Israel turned away from him.”
Later we learn of the Canaanite’s battle against Israel. They eventually lose their cities and families. We also read about two giant kings, Sihon and Og, who represented the Amorites. Who “came out” to fight Israel as well? So, what’s the point of this?
In these texts, you will find Israel requesting passage through lands, promising not to partake in their culture, food, water, or way of life. And, while waiting for a reply, Israel would camp a ways out. Why wait? The apostle Peter makes this statement:
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
The Amorites come from Canaan’s family, who was Ham’s son. Noah had cursed Canaan for the sexual sin of Ham. The Amorites, in turn, had become lovers of darkness, worshippers of idols, and mighty warriors (meaning: powerful against God). And they, like Esau, rejected Israel, even though Israel only sought to pass through. Is it possible they were afraid of the light that would shine forth from the Ark of the Covenant?
In the book of John, we read, “For God loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” But just a few verses down, we also read:
“The light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light; for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the light and does not come to the light.” John 3:16-20
So how does all this relate to us? Like in the poem from the Book of Wars (Num. 20:14-18) and from the Torah, we can know that Yahweh fights our battles. It is our responsibility to trust His leadership and not our own. There will be people we meet who will hate His Light. Will we be drawn into their depravity and perversion, or will we walk in the Light of Truth?
What will you and I do when faced with a modern-day culture that desires to live in lawlessness and who want to fight with the people of Yah? Can we accept the concept that some will turn from light? And can we wait for Yah’s timing rather than our own in order to proceed into a land for safe passage?
Be Blessed this Sabbath,
Rollyn