“But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God… as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.”                                        2 Corinthians 6:4, 10

Lessons From a Nomad

Part 3

Over the last two days, we have seen how a nomad leads a life of obedience, and that a wise leader makes the choices for staying or moving on. We also saw that a nomadic life can be unpredictable and uncertain.

There are some other logical takeaways from a nomad’s life. One is that someone who is wandering through the land will have to carry everything he has chosen to take with him. It won’t take very long to realize that possessions are weighty. One gets very tired carrying heavy items. Not only that, but nomads have no permanent structures to dwell in, for they will have to literally carry their homes wherever they go.

It is far better that if we are going to “possess” things, they are eternal. As we let go of lesser things that will decay and pass away, we will find our possessions to be eternally within. The fruit of the Spirit is being developed in us, and those things cannot be taken from us. Those are “treasures” held in our “earthen vessels.” He brings the harvest of a quiet and gentle spirit that pleases Him.

God is Provider for those living with a nomad’s characteristic “loose hold” on the things of this world. As He daily gave manna to feed His people, so He gives what is needed for today. We look to Him, and we are filled. When we know He is the source of what we need, we don’t try to fulfill ourselves some other way.

Another lesson the Israelites learned during their nomadic journey is that God doesn’t have to answer for Himself. He doesn’t need to give reasons for what He does. It may make sense to us, or it may not. It may be what we would choose to do, or it may not. His ways aren’t our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Surrender to Him. When life is unpredictable or takes an unexpected turn, remember that He already knew about it. He never changes in the least degree; tomorrow He’ll be just as steadfast as He is today. We can stand on His promises to love us, care for us, heal us, provide for us, and give us a future and a hope.

And perhaps that is the greatest lesson for a nomad: God is preparing a final place for us. We have a sure hope that one day we will rest from this journey. He is building a home for us, getting things ready so we can permanently settle into His presence. We will no longer need a cloud or fire to lead us, for we will finally be home, sweet home.

“Lord, help us to identify the possessions that we are holding tightly in our grip, that we may let them go. Help us to trust You when we don’t understand. We look ahead with undeniable hope to the day You take us to our permanent home with You. In Jesus’ precious Name, Amen.”