FAITH AND FEAR IN THE WILDERNESS!

Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. (1 Corinthians 10:11, KJV).

ABSTRACT

Ancient Israel’s wilderness journey offers timeless insights for the community today, as we navigate end-time challenges toward eternal promise. Their story mirrors our spiritual path, highlighting faith, separation, law-keeping, health, warfare, overcoming, commitment, and mission. Unity with Christ empowers us to learn from their experiences, avoiding pitfalls while embracing God’s guidance for victory.

WILDERNESS ECHOES! HISTORY’S HOPE!

The chronicles of ancient Israel’s sojourn are not dusty relics of a bygone era; they are vibrant lessons pulsating with relevance for us, spiritual Israel, in these closing scenes of Earth’s history. As pilgrims journeying toward the celestial Canaan, we can find ourselves mirrored in their wilderness wanderings. The apostle Paul, with divine insight, declared, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4). Listen closely to the echoes of inspiration as Ellen G. White confirms this sacred principle: “The history of the wilderness life of Israel was chronicled for the benefit of the Israel of God to the close of time” (Patriarchs and Prophets, 293). This essay embarks on an exploration, seeking to unearth the luminous parallels between Israel’s trials and our contemporary spiritual odyssey, revealing how their missteps and triumphs illuminate our path today. Indeed, the Scriptures themselves urge us to learn from the past, as the Psalmist wrote, “Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us” (Psalm 78:1-3). The Bible further illustrates this with, “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Corinthians 10:11). And with, “But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness” (1 Corinthians 10:5). Sr. White further emphasizes the importance of studying Israel’s history: “The record of His dealings with the wanderers of the desert in all their diversity of experience, in trial and affliction, in prosperity and adversity, is a divine lesson book, from which His people in these last days are to learn precious lessons” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 11, 1876). She also states: “The history of Israel is written for our admonition and warning upon whom the ends of the world are come” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 358, 1873). The lessons of old are not to be forgotten, but to guide us in our present journey. Sr. White further emphasizes the importance of studying Israel’s history: “We have far more to fear from within than from without. The hindrances to strength and success are far greater from the church itself than from the world” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 429). Understanding our past failings, as mirrored in Israel’s experience, is crucial for our present and future strength. But how does God’s original plan contrast with the painful paths caused by human waywardness?

PERFECT PLANS! PAINFUL PATHS!

Was it Heaven’s design that Israel should languish forty years in the desolate wilderness? Absolutely not! God’s original intent was a swift and joyous passage to Canaan, a land flowing with milk and honey, where they would flourish as a holy and contented nation. Deuteronomy’s pages resonate with this divine desire: “Behold, the Lord thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 1:21). Yet, tragically, their unbelief and rebellion erected an impenetrable barrier. Hear the somber words of Sr. White: “It was not the will of God that Israel should wander forty years in the wilderness; He desired to lead them directly to the land of Canaan, and establish them there, a holy, happy people. But they could not enter in because of unbelief. Because of their backsliding and apostasy, they perished in the desert, and others were raised up to enter the promised land” (The Great Controversy, 458). Are we, then, spiritual Israel, destined for a protracted wandering in this sin-sick world? The delay of Christ’s return is not rooted in divine reluctance, but in the stubborn unbelief and clinging worldliness of humanity, a solemn truth echoing the words of Hebrews: “Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief” (Hebrews 4:6). Let this resonate as a stark warning: our own lack of faith may lengthen our sojourn in this vale of tears, yet God’s steadfast promise endures for those who choose unwavering trust and heartfelt obedience. The Scripture plainly states, “So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief” (Hebrews 3:19), reinforcing the devastating consequences of a lack of faith in God’s promises. The Bible further illustrates this with, “Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief” (Hebrews 4:11). And with, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12). Sr. White further clarifies the cause of delay: “For forty years did unbelief, murmuring, and rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan. The same sins have delayed the entrance of modern Israel into the heavenly Canaan” (Evangelism, 696, 1946). She also states: “The unbelief and murmurings of the children of Israel illustrate the people of God now upon the earth. Many look back to them, and marvel at their unbelief and continual complaining, after the Lord had done so much for them” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, 129, 1855). Our unbelief and separation from God are the primary reasons for the prolonged delay. But what happens when Babylon beckons with its deceptive allure?

BABYLON BECKONS! BREAK FREE!

Throughout their wilderness journey, Israel was constantly admonished to maintain a holy separation from the idolatrous nations that surrounded them, lest they become ensnared by their deceptive practices. The prophet Jeremiah’s urgent plea echoes across the centuries: “Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this is the time of the Lord’s vengeance; he will render unto her a recompence” (Jeremiah 51:6). In these last days, a resonant call rings out to spiritual Israel: “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues” (Revelation 18:4). To truly embody the remnant church, we must resolutely forsake every tendril of spiritual compromise, severing ties with the seductive allure of Babylon. Listen to the clarion voice of Sr. White: “The people of God are to stand as a peculiar people, separate from the world” (Selected Messages, Book 2, 19). Let us not delude ourselves; the church must resolutely guard against mingling with apostasy, upholding purity in both doctrine and daily living. Just as Israel’s hesitation to fully detach from Egypt prolonged their desert trials, so too will our reluctance to decisively depart from Babylon result in spiritual stagnation and peril. God’s summons is clear and compelling: unwavering commitment to separation and holiness. Paul further emphasizes this principle, urging, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). This separation is not merely physical, but also spiritual and moral. The Bible further illustrates this with, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). And with, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them” (Ephesians 5:11). Sr. White vividly describes the nature of this separation: “God’s people are to come out from the world and be separate. They are not to compromise with the sentiments and habits of the world” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 435, 1885). Furthermore, she warns of the danger of conformity: “The people of God are to be a peculiar people, separate from the world, and be separate in their faith, in their principles, in their practices” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 440, 1868). Our lives must demonstrate a clear distinction from worldly practices and values. Furthermore, she warns of the danger of conformity: “Those who profess to be followers of Christ should come out from the world and be separate. They should not try to conform to the world in order to secure its favor, lest they lose the favor of God” (Fundamentals of Christian Education, 207). But how does upholding God’s law stand against the rising tide of lawlessness?

LAWLESSNESS LOUD! LOVE’S LAW LOFTY!

A lamentable chapter in Israel’s history is their repeated neglect of God’s sacred law, a tragic lapse that plunged them into recurring cycles of apostasy and divine displeasure. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God declared, “I am the Lord your God; walk in my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezekiel 20:19). In this culminating generation, spiritual Israel is summoned to valiantly uphold the banner of God’s commandments, even amidst a world that increasingly scorns divine precepts and embraces lawlessness. John, the revelator, identifies the true saints as “they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). Sr. White, with prophetic insight, confirms: “In the last great conflict, two classes will be developed—those who keep the commandments of God and those who worship the beast and his image” (The Great Controversy, 445). Behold, the battle lines are drawn! The conflict over God’s unchanging law intensifies with every passing day, but His faithful people, fortified by divine grace, will stand firm as unwavering pillars of truth, reflecting His righteous character to a world adrift in moral chaos. The urgency to uphold God’s law is further emphasized in Revelation, “And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail” (Revelation 11:19). The ark, containing the law, is central to God’s temple and His eternal purpose. The Bible further illustrates this with, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). And with, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14). Sr. White underscores the centrality of God’s law: “The law of God is the foundation of His government in heaven and upon the earth. If His subjects could be alienated from their allegiance to this law, God’s government would be imperiled” (The Signs of the Times, March 3, 1890). It is the unchangeable rule by which we must live. Furthermore, she warns about the consequences of rejecting it: “The warfare against God’s law, which was begun in heaven, will be continued until the end of time” (The Great Controversy, 582). We are in the midst of this very conflict, and our faithfulness to God’s law is paramount. But how does treating our bodies as temples herald health’s holy principles?

HEALTH’S HERALD! TEMPLES TRUE!

God, in His infinite wisdom, bestowed upon ancient Israel clear and comprehensive health laws, designed to distinguish them as a holy people, set apart for His divine purposes. Moses recorded, “For I am the Lord that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy” (Leviticus 11:45). Likewise, we in this end time are urgently called to glorify God in their very bodies, treating them as sacred temples of the Holy Spirit. Paul, the apostle, reminds us: “And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible” (1 Corinthians 9:25). With compelling clarity, Sr. White emphasizes, “Health reform is an important part of the third angel’s message” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, 69). Let us not be deceived; neglecting the health message weakens spiritual discernment, clouds our minds, and diminishes our effectiveness as witnesses for Christ. The world champions self-indulgence and gratification of appetite, but God’s chosen people must resolutely practice self-control and temperance in all things, meticulously preparing their bodies as fit habitations for His indwelling Spirit, ready for service and sacrifice. Paul further elaborates on this principle: “Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Our bodies are not our own; they are temples dedicated to God’s glory. The Bible further illustrates this with, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). And with, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1). Sr. White further emphasizes the spiritual dimension of health: “God requires the body to be rendered a living sacrifice to Him, not a dead or a dying sacrifice” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 63, 1872). Our physical health directly impacts our spiritual and mental capacities. Moreover, she states, “True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything that is harmful, and to use judiciously that which is healthful” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, 3). This balanced approach to health is essential for God’s people. But how does donning spiritual armor prepare us for the waged warfare?

WARFARE WAGED! ARMOR STRONG!

Just as ancient Israel faced palpable physical battles against earthly foes, the remnant church today is engaged in a far more intense and consequential spiritual war against unseen, yet powerfully real, forces of darkness. Paul’s warning echoes with urgency: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). Sr. White, granted a vision of this cosmic conflict, vividly describes: “In vision I saw two armies in terrible conflict. One army was led by banners bearing the world’s insignia, the other was led by the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, 41). The pivotal question confronts each of us: Under whose banner will we stand? Victory in this spiritual warfare is assured for those who endure to the end, clad in the full armor of God, for they shall ultimately join the triumphant chorus, singing “the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb” (Revelation 15:3). Let us, therefore, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might, pressing the battle to the gates! To equip ourselves for this battle, we are urged, “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11), highlighting the necessity of spiritual preparation and protection in this conflict. The Bible further illustrates this with, “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” (Ephesians 6:16). And with, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh” (2 Corinthians 10:3). Sr. White further elaborates on the nature of this warfare: “The great controversy between Christ and Satan, that has been carried forward for nearly six thousand years, is soon to close” (The Great Controversy, 518, 1911). This conflict is spiritual, demanding spiritual weapons. She also emphasizes the importance of organization and unity in this battle: “God is leading out a people, not a few isolated individuals here and there, but a people to stand in unity upon the platform of eternal truth” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 484). Our collective strength in organization is vital in facing Satan’s forces. But how does God’s throne of triumph help us navigate tempter’s traps?

TRIUMPH’S THRONE! TRAPS OVERCOME!

While the wilderness journey was fraught with peril and temptations, it was also punctuated by God’s unwavering love and provision for His erring children. His guidance through the pillar of cloud and fire, His provision of manna and water, His patient discipline – all were tangible expressions of His enduring love. He yearns to lead us safely home, just as He longed to swiftly usher Israel into Canaan’s embrace. Listen to the tender assurance of Sr. White: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (Steps to Christ, 31). Indeed, His love is interwoven into every lesson gleaned from Israel’s history, gently urging us toward steadfast faithfulness and unwavering perseverance, demonstrating His longing for our eternal salvation. Consider the words of the Psalmist: “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him” (Psalm 103:8-11). Such is the boundless love of God, revealed throughout the ages, and supremely manifested in the gift of His Son. His love is further evidenced in His promises to those who overcome, as declared in Revelation, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son” (Revelation 21:7), demonstrating the ultimate reward awaiting the faithful. The Bible further illustrates this with, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). And with, “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him” (James 1:12). Sr. White beautifully describes this love: “The love of God for his children during the period of their trial is as deep and tender as in days of prosperity; but it is more necessary for them to be placed in the furnace of trial, that the dross may be consumed, and they may be refined and made pure, holy, and fitted for the Master’s use” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 86). Even in trials, God’s love is working for our ultimate good. She also emphasizes the personal nature of this love: “Jesus loves to have us just as we are, sinful, helpless, dependent. But He longs to have us not remain as we are” (Christ’s Object Lessons, 159). His love accepts us while also urging us towards transformation. But what solemn commitment calls us to faith and obedience?

It is a solemn and joyful commitment to unwavering faith and complete obedience. Christ Himself declares, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne” (Revelation 3:21). Let us not deceive ourselves; each delay in our obedience serves only to prolong our spiritual wandering, keeping us from the promised rest. Sr. White pointedly challenges, “Will we allow the enemy to rob us of our eternal inheritance?” (Maranatha, 54). No! My sacred duty is crystal clear: to wholeheartedly trust, diligently obey, and actively hasten the Lord’s return through consecrated living and fervent service. Like Caleb, may we have this spirit: “Surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that despise me see it: But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it” (Numbers 14:23, 24). Let us follow fully! This call to obedience is echoed throughout Scripture, as Samuel declared, “Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22), emphasizing the paramount importance of obedience in our relationship with God. The Bible further illustrates this with, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19). And with, “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Hebrews 5:9). Sr. White reinforces this principle: “God requires of us perfect obedience. We are to purify ourselves, even as He is pure. By obedience to His commandments we are to evidence our love for Him” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 83). Obedience is not just an act, but an expression of love and devotion. She also stresses the personal nature of this responsibility: “It is the duty of every soul to deny self, to take up the cross, and follow Christ” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 214). Each individual has a personal calling to obedience. But how does our role as covenant people extend light to the world?

As God’s covenant people, we are not only called to personal holiness, but also to be a beacon of light to the nations, illuminating the path to salvation for a world shrouded in spiritual darkness. Jesus Himself declared, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14). Just as ancient Israel was divinely ordained to exemplify God’s righteousness and justice, we, spiritual Israel, are entrusted with the sacred task of bearing witness to His saving grace in this present age. Sr. White passionately exhorts, “The work of the gospel is not to close up, but to extend until it encircles the world” (The Desire of Ages, 821). Let us not be inward-focused or self-absorbed; our faithfulness, or lack thereof, profoundly impacts those around us, both within and outside the church. Therefore, we must actively engage in leading others to Christ, sharing the good news of salvation with boldness and compassion, becoming instruments of divine love in a world desperately needing hope. Consider the words of Isaiah: “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth” (Isaiah 49:6). We too are called to be a light, extending to the ends of the earth! This outward focus is further commanded by Christ, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:19-20). The Bible further illustrates this with, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). And with, “And ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Sr. White emphasizes the urgency and scope of this mission: “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver” (The Desire of Ages, 195). We are all called to be missionaries by virtue of our Christian experience. She also highlights the importance of personal effort in reaching others: “Our work is not confined to any one place or country, but is to extend to all parts of the world. In every place, nigh and afar off, souls are perishing for the bread of life” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 29). Our responsibility is global, reaching out to those near and far with the message of salvation.

URGENT LESSONS! FINAL CALL!

The history of Israel is not merely a narrative of the past; it is a living, breathing parable for God’s people today, pulsating with urgent relevance. Their triumphs and calamitous failures offer indispensable lessons for all who eagerly await the glories of the heavenly Canaan. Unbelief and disobedience inevitably delay the fulfillment of God’s promises, while unwavering faith and wholehearted obedience hasten the blessed day of ultimate deliverance. God’s clarion call resonates with unmistakable clarity: resolutely separate from Babylon’s seductive allure, steadfastly uphold His unchanging commandments, wholeheartedly embrace the principles of health reform, and stand unyielding in the face of the intensifying great controversy. Those who remain faithful to the end will soon hear the long-awaited voice from heaven triumphantly declare, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (The Great Controversy, 646). The wearying time of wilderness wandering is swiftly drawing to a close—will we be found ready to enter the promised rest? May God grant us grace to heed His call and prepare to meet our King! Let us remember the solemn words of warning and encouragement from the apostle Paul: “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:11-12). The lessons are clear, and the time is short; may we learn and be ready. The Bible further illustrates this with, “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book” (Daniel 12:1). And with, “Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning” (Mark 13:35). Sr. White leaves us with a final appeal: “We are standing on the borders of the eternal world. We have no time to lose. Every moment is golden and altogether too precious to be devoted to selfishness. Who will seek God earnestly and with all the heart, and plead with Him for strength and grace to be His faithful workers in the harvest field?” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 129). The urgency of the hour demands our utmost dedication. And finally, she gives a hopeful vision: “Soon the battle will have been fought, the victory won. Soon we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence we shall realize that all the trials of this life are but as light affliction, working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 287). Let us press onward with faith and hope to the glorious triumph ahead.

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PEOPLE OF THE BOOK