Look and Live

Today’s key verse is taken from the daily Bible reading plan at BibleInAYearOnline.com

So Moses made a snake out of bronze and attached it to a pole. Then anyone who was bitten by a snake could look at the bronze snake and be healed! - Numbers 21:9 (NLT)

As we walk through the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, we see a beautiful picture of grace unfold. Even after God gave them victory over the Egyptians and led them on their journey, the people grew impatient. Their grumbling about the manna and the hardships of the wilderness brought swift consequences in the form of poisonous snakes. Many were bitten and died, but in this moment of crisis, God extended grace.

Instead of punishment, God provided a way of healing. He instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent and raise it on a pole. All those who looked at it would be healed. This was not because the serpent had any power of its own, but because God had ordained it as a means of grace, grace that offered life to those who had been rebellious.

This symbolized Jesus being lifted up on the cross, becoming the ultimate source of grace for all who look to Him in faith. Just as the Israelites needed only to look at the bronze serpent for healing, we, too, can find healing and salvation by looking to Jesus. It’s a reminder that grace isn’t about earning our way or deserving it, it's about God's mercy in the midst of our brokenness.

Reflection Question: Is there any "snakes" or challenges in your life that may be leading you to grumble or lose patience? How can you look to Jesus for grace and healing in those situations?

Prayer: Father, thank You for the grace You extend to us even in the midst of our failures. Help us to remember that no matter how lost or broken we may feel, You have provided a way to healing and restoration through Your Son. Teach us to turn our eyes toward Jesus and embrace the grace that brings life. In Jesus Name, Amen.