Why the Long Journey Around Edom
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were only two of his nearest friends to attend his burial. That lonely
grave was forever hidden from the sight of Israel. God is not honored
in the great display and extravagant expense incurred in returning
bodies to the dust.
The death of Aaron forcibly reminded Moses that his own end was
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near. He deeply felt the loss of the one who had shared his joys and
sorrows for so many years. Moses must now work alone; but he knew
God was his friend, and upon Him he leaned more heavily.
Soon after leaving Mount Hor the Israelites suffered defeat in an
engagement with Arad, one of the Canaanite kings. But as they sought
help from God, divine aid was granted and their enemies were routed.
This victory, instead of inspiring gratitude, made the people boastful
and self-confident.
They continued their journey toward the south through a hot valley,
destitute of shade or vegetation. They suffered weariness and thirst.
Again they failed to endure the test of faith and patience. By dwelling
on the dark side they separated themselves farther from God. They lost
sight of the fact that but for their murmurings when the water ceased
at Kadesh, they would have been spared the journey around Edom.
They flattered themselves that if God and Moses had not interfered,
they might now have been in possession of the Promised Land. After
making their lot altogether harder than God designed, they cherished
bitter thoughts concerning His dealings with them and finally became
discontented with everything. Egypt looked more desirable than liberty
and the land to which God was leading them!
What Happens in Unbelief
“And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore
have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there
is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light
bread.”
Moses faithfully set before the people their great sin. God’s
power alone had preserved them in “that great and terrible wilder-
ness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where
there was no water.”
Deuteronomy 8:15
. In all the way they had found
water, bread from heaven, and peace and safety under the shadowy
cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. Angels had ministered to
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