They departed from Rephidim and camped in the Wilderness of Sinai. They moved from the Wilderness of Sinai and camped at Kibroth Hattaavah. (Numbers 33:15-16)
For the next several verses, the Bible lists numerous places where the children of Israel camped for varying spaces of time. Actually, while certain events are highlighted in their journeys, not much is written about this intermittent time and, consequently, the details are a mystery. For that reason, it is difficult to identify the exact route. That being said, there are some who believe the journey took them deep into the Arabian peninsula. In fact, many of you may be aware that, more and more, there is a growing belief that Mount Sinai is situated in present day Saudi Arabia — an area known to be hostile to God’s people.
There are many passages in Scripture that speak of the wilderness as being desolate and uninhabited, a place no one would choose to dwell in. It certainly doesn’t sound like a land flowing with milk and honey as their ultimate destination was described to them. Yet, this is the very place that God led them to and through for forty years, and as they journeyed, they left their footprints — a very important factor to consider.
Interestingly, evidence of large, long-deserted campsites has been found in the Arabian peninsula and, as an expression of their presence there, these people — whoever they were — decided to draw the outline of their sandaled feet on stone. That is fascinating in light of the fact that Moses had said, “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours: from the wilderness…even to the Western Sea, shall be your territory” (Deuteronomy 11:24).
So what does this have to say to us? If the God of Israel keeps track of every place the wandering Hebrews placed their feet so as to be true to His promise, would He not show favor upon our steps as well? In other words, when it comes to His purpose in and through His people, would He not order our steps as well? Furthermore, would He not empower and enable us to advance into the enemy’s territory and take ground from the realm of darkness? Would He not give us the authority to trample on scorpions and serpents and over all the power of the enemy? Absolutely!
Therefore, let us be deliberate about where we place our feet, and by that I mean, let us follow the path He has prepared for us. If we walk as we are commanded, we have the authority to tread upon our enemy and overcome wickedness which “shall be ashes under the soles of your feet” (Malachi 4:3).
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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