This story is mysterious and frankly, a little weird. But when you know what it means in the context of the narrative of Scripture, it makes so much more sense.

Context:
In this part of the exodus, the people are impatient to get to the Promised Land. “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness?” In doing this, they speak against God’s grace.

When God withdrawals his grace, he leaves the Israelites open to the natural dangers of the wilderness (dangerous snakes, in this case). He wants his children to see their entitled attitudes. But as soon as they turn toward him, he gives them a way back to him.

What Does This Story Mean?
John 3:14-17: Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Here are God’s people, spurning his grace, and in doing so, are choosing death. That death can only be relieved by looking to this snake that has been lifted up. There is a choice to be made. Jesus himself says in John that the whole point of that passage is to point to what is going to happen through himself.

What Does This Mean for Me?
When you hear this story, what is your response?

If you lack understanding or doubt, have you asked God to unveil your understanding?

Our Verses for Next Week: Ruth 1-4

Be sure to check out Nicole's newest book, The Miracle Moment! To learn more or to join Nicole's launch team, visit https://nicoleunice.com/miraclemoment/.

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