The Way Pre-Exists

Scripture: So Moses cried out to the Lord, “Please, God, heal her!” The Lord replied to Moses, “If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back.” So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back. Numbers 12:13-15

Observation: Out of pride, Miriam and Aaron sinned, and God provided both the punishment and a reminder of the way to redemption.

God had already provided the redemption part - the process one must go through when they have a skin disease. Thus, when Miriam has sinned and receives judgment, the solution is there. In addition, Moses' plea to God does not change that solution ... God doesn't provide a healing outside of his law, but rather answers the prayer by reminding Moses, Miriam and Aaron about the law.

Application: I have sometimes wondered why it is that God doesn't take certain actions toward friends and loved ones when I have prayed for them. I find an answer in this verse. God DOES answer my prayer by pointing to his law ... he says "there is Jesus, and all who believe in him will be restored, forgiven of all sin, and enjoy everlasting life."

God isn't going to forgive sin outside of that covenant, but he is always going to forgive sin within that covenant. In this way, when it comes to my non-believing friends, there is only one prayer that matters. That prayer is not "please help them" or "ease their pain" or "heal their addictions" or "mend their broken lives" ... but "help me show them Jesus Christ and put them on a path toward belief."

Prayer: Lord, please help me show others Jesus Christ today, and put them on a path toward belief. As you have reminded me over the last couple of weeks, that is why I am here. May I serve others in your name and for your purposes in their lives. Amen.