Day 60: Intercessory Prayer

 Today's readings: Numbers 10, Deuteronomy 9, and Psalm 10.

I. In the tenth chapter of Numbers, God first instructs Moses to make two silver trumpets for summoning all the Israelites. These are to be used as practical tools and sacred signals, reminders that God is leading Israel (10:1-10). The rest of the chapter details the departure from Mt. Sinai by Israel, in the manner as previously organized (10:11-28).

II. Deuteronomy 9 begins with Moses reminding Israel that they are about to enter the Promised Land and defeat powerful nations. But victory comes from God, not their own strength, and they must not become proud or think they earned this blessing. He recounts their history, showing repeated failure, but though they repeatedly resisted God, history also shows His patience and the power of intercession.

III. Psalm 10 is one of lament. As the Ignatius Bible notes:

Like many of this type, it begins with words of complaint (10:1-11) and ends with words of confidence (10:12-18). The wicked man is decried for his greed (10:3), arrogance (10:4), presumption (10:6), and ruthless oppression (10:7-10). He even denies that God will hold him accountable for his ways (10:13). The Psalmist prays against him, urging the Lord to rise up in judgment (10:12) and thwart his treachery (10:15). (p. 839)

That's all for today!