In Numbers 27:15–23, Joshua is selected by God to lead His Chosen people. However, he had to inquire from the LORD to know whether “to come or go.” Interestingly, Eleazar the priest was instructed to use the Urim to discern God’s will for the people. So Joshua wasn’t leading alone. He had to rely on Eleazar to know the will of the Lord.
And how would they know what God wanted them to do? Two simple words, “Urim” and “Thummim.”
You may wonder, “What are the Urim and Thummim?” They were small objects placed within the breastpiece of the priest’s attire. Their function was simple: discern the will of the LORD. Take a look in Exodus:
Exodus 28:30 (CSB) 30 Place the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece for decisions, so that they will also be over Aaron’s heart whenever he comes before the Lord. Aaron will continually carry the means of decisions for the Israelites over his heart before the Lord.
Notice how God instructed them to be placed “over his heart.” How fitting that the location would give insight to God’s intention. He wanted the objects to remind them exactly what Jesus prayed in Mark 14:36, Luke 22:42, and John 5:30—God’s will over mine.
If we want to walk with God, we have to prioritize His will over our heart’s desires. We have to be committed to His direction, especially when it conflicts with our own.
Today, we don’t have to use holy objects to discern God’s will. We have the Holy Spirit and the gift of prayer. All we have to do is ask God for wisdom and direction, and He promises to give it to us if we ask in faith (James 1:5–8).
I don’t know what decisions you are facing this summer, but I’m sure not all of them are easy. Go to God in faith, and simply ask Him for directions. Whatever it is you need to know, He will tell you exactly when you need to know it.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Jack