Verses 15–23
This cloud was appointed to be the visible sign and symbol of God's presence with Israel. Thus
we are taught to see God always near us, both night and day. As long as the cloud rested on the
tabernacle, so long they continued in the same place. There is no time lost, while we are waiting
God's time. When the cloud was taken up, they removed, however comfortably they were encamped.
We are kept at uncertainty concerning the time of our putting off the earthly house of this tabernacle,
that we may be always ready to remove at the command of the Lord. It is very safe and pleasant
going when we see God before us, and resting where he appoints us to rest. The leading of this
cloud is spoken of as signifying the guidance of the blessed Spirit. We are not now to expect such
tokens of the Divine presence and guidance; but the promise is sure to all God's spiritual Israel,
that he will guide them by his counsel. Ps 73:24, even unto death, Ps 48:14. All the children of God
shall be led by the Spirit of God, Ro 8:14. He will direct the paths of those who in all their ways
acknowledge him, Pr 3:6. At the commandment of the Lord, our hearts should always move and
rest, saying, Father, thy will be done; dispose of me and mine as thou pleasest. What thou wilt, and
where thou wilt; only let me be thine, and always in the way of my duty. In applying general precepts
to particular circumstances, there should be good counsel and fervent prayer. When any undertaking
is evidently wrong, or doubtfully right, and yet the mind leans that way, in such a case “the moving
of the cloud,” as men sometimes miscall it, is generally no more than a temptation Satan is permitted
to propose; and men fancy they are following the Lord, when they are following their own wayward
inclinations. The record of his mercy will conduct us with unerring truth, through Christ, to
everlasting peace. Follow the pillar of the cloud and of fire. Lay the BIBLE to heart, and receive
with meekness the ingrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets. (1–10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran. (11–28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue. (29–32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses. (33–36)Verses 1–10
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet.
Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter Moses is directed. These
trumpets typify the preached gospel. It sounds an alarm to sinners, calls them to repent, proclaims
liberty to the captives and slaves of Satan, and collects the worshippers of God. It directs and
encourages their heavenly journey; stirs them up to combat against the world and sin, encouraging