The Israelites found themselves in a desperate situation. After speaking against God and Moses, a plague of fiery serpents was sent among them as a consequence of their disobedience. Many were bitten, and the people were dying in large numbers. But even in their rebellion, God’s heart remained one of redemption. He provided a way of healing—a bronze serpent lifted high on a pole. Anyone who looked upon it in faith would live.
This moment is a beautiful reflection of God’s character. Yes, there was judgment, but even more, there was mercy. God didn’t leave the people to their suffering without offering a way out. In His love, He doesn’t abandon us to our struggles but always makes a way for redemption and restoration.
The Power of Prayer
When faced with the cries of the people and the devastating effects of the serpents, Moses didn’t panic. He didn’t try to create a plan on his own or lean on his own understanding. He prayed. He turned to God for guidance, knowing that the solution would come from Him and not from human effort.
God responded with a clear and miraculous instruction: make a bronze serpent, set it on a pole, and lift it high for the people to see. Everyone who was bitten and looked upon the bronze serpent in faith would be healed.
This act of looking to the bronze serpent foreshadowed the ultimate act of redemption through Jesus Christ. As Jesus Himself said in John 3:14-15:
“Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life.”
The message remains the same today: look and live. Whatever your struggle, whether it’s fear, worry, or sin, the answer isn’t found in yourself. It’s found in looking to Jesus, trusting Him, and seeking Him in prayer. When we pray, God’s goodness is released in our lives.
A Heart of Repentance
When I reflect on this story, I see so much of myself in the Israelites. How often have I complained about God’s timing or provision? How often have I looked to other sources for answers instead of turning to Him in trust? Yet, just like the Israelites, God meets me with mercy.
He is so good to us—better than we deserve. He has given us eternal life through Jesus, and even now, He protects us and works beyond what we can see. He forgives us for the times we’ve focused on His gifts rather than on Him, the Giver.
We should always fix our eyes on Jesus, not on the distractions of this world. He alone is our source of hope, healing, and restoration.
Encouragement for Today
If you find yourself overwhelmed, worried, or unsure of what to do, take a lesson from Moses: stop and pray. Don’t try to figure it all out on your own. Bring your needs to God, knowing He sees your pain and already has a plan for your healing.
And remember, the answer isn’t in what you can do. It’s in what Jesus has already done. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking to the bronze serpent, we find life and freedom when we look to the Cross.
Whatever you’re facing today, take it to God in prayer, worship Him for His goodness, and trust that His redemption is at work in your life. Look and live.
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