Definition: At the commandment of the LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 9:18. It’s a really important passage about God's instructions and how He chooses to protect His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God told the Israelites (the people they were living under) to follow His rules and directions. When He gave them these instructions, they had to do things a specific way. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “At the commandment of the LORD…” – This means God gave Him instructions. It’s like when someone asks you to do something, and they tell you exactly what to do. “…the children of Israel journeyed…” - The Israelites were moving around, traveling from place to place. “…and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched…” – This is where it gets interesting. God told them to set up their camp (their temporary home) exactly as He directed. “as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle…” - This is a really vivid image. Imagine God was in the sky, and when He wanted to protect His people, He’d make a big, dark cloud appear – like a shield – above the Tabernacle (a special building where God lived). “…they rested in their tents.” - Because they were safe under this protective cloud, the Israelites were allowed to settle down and rest in their temporary shelters. So, what’s the big takeaway? It shows that God is in control and He chooses how to protect His people. He gives them specific instructions (the "commandment") and then provides a way for them to stay safe – by setting up their home in a designated place while He's watching over them. In essence, it’s a story about trust and obedience. God wants us to follow His guidance, even when things are challenging, and that gives us peace of mind. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of the cloud? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like trust or obedience)?