Day 70

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 34–36.

WORD OF THE DAY: Refuge.

We did it! We have officially finished the book of Numbers. If you’ve ever felt like you were “wandering” through the genealogies or the laws, take heart—you have uncovered truths that transform.

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Our Word of the Day is Refuge.

A refuge is a place of safety or hope. In Numbers 35, God established Cities of Refuge. In an era where “blood vengeance” was the standard for justice, these cities provided a legal and lethal shield for those who had committed unintentional acts. It was a place where they could find safety until their case was heard.

God Sees the Individual

Throughout these final chapters, we see God’s meticulous care. He doesn’t just give a “general area” of land; He defines the borders. He doesn’t just give land to men; He makes a way for daughters to inherit property. He doesn’t just care about the collective; He provides a specific way for the “accidental killer” to be protected.

The Chief Shepherd

Michelle shared a beautiful connection to the book Hinds’ Feet on High Places. Just like the character “Much Afraid,” we often feel overwhelmed by the mountains in front of us. But our Chief Shepherd is only a call away. He doesn’t want us to struggle independently; He wants us to find our refuge in Him.

The Great High Priest

The most striking parallel in today’s text is that the accused was set free upon the death of the High Priest. What a beautiful picture of what Jesus did for us! We are guilty, yet our High Priest died so that we could leave our “city of refuge” and return to our true home, fully redeemed and justified.

Journal Prompt

Do you tend to be the “independent” child who tries to handle the storm alone, or do you run to your Father? Reflect on a time when God was a “visible shield” around you.

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Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for being our Rock and our Salvation. Thank You that when the earth gives way and the mountains tremble, You are our Fortress. We thank You for the grace found in Jesus, our merciful High Priest. Help us to live out of Your abundance today and to trust You as our safe place. Amen.

Day 69

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 32–33.

WORD OF THE DAY: Portion.

We are so close to the Promised Land we can almost taste it! But before the Israelites cross the Jordan, there are some final negotiations and a very long history lesson.

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Our Word of the Day is Portion.

A portion is a part of a whole, or a person’s destiny or lot. In Numbers 32, we see some tribes deciding that their “portion” should be on the east side of the river because the land was good for livestock. While they eventually got their wish, they had to commit to finishing the mission with their brothers first.

The Memory Log

Chapter 33 is essentially Moses’ travel journal. It’s a written record of their progress from Egypt to the plains of Moab. Why does this matter? Because 40 years is a long time to wander, and it’s easy to forget the miracles when you’re focused on the dirt. By recording the journey, Moses ensured the new generation knew exactly where they came from and who brought them there.

No Room for Coexistence

The warnings at the end of Chapter 33 are heavy. God tells them to drive out everyone and demolish everything pagan. It sounds harsh, but it was an act of “tender regard” for His people. God knew that if they coexisted with idols, those influences would become splinters in their eyes—constant sources of pain and distraction.

The Lord is My Portion

Tricia reminded us that while the Israelites were fighting for a physical portion of land, our ultimate portion is the Lord Himself. In the Old Testament, we see a cycle of sin and struggle, but through Jesus, we are invited to reclaim the whole earth for His kingdom. We don’t have to live in spiritual scarcity.

Journal Prompt

If you were to write a “written record” of your progress over the last month, what would be the highlights? Where did God provide for you in your “wilderness”? Write it down today so you don’t forget His faithfulness.

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Closing Prayer

Lord, You are our chosen portion and our cup. Thank You for the destiny You have prepared for us. Help us to be diligent in clearing out the “idols” and distractions that keep us from fully enjoying Your presence. We thank You for Your abundance and for walking with us through every stage of our journey. Amen.

Day 68

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 30–31.

WORD OF THE DAY: Enticed.

We are nearing the end of our journey through Numbers, and today’s chapters are, quite frankly, intense. From the legalities of vows to the “rated R” reality of ancient warfare, it can be hard to reconcile these stories with our modern sensibilities. But at the heart of it all is a God who is fighting for the soul of His people.

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Our Word of the Day is Enticed.

To entice is to lure or tempt someone by promising something they like. We see this in Numbers 31:16, where Moses points out that the Midianite women were the ones who followed Balaam’s advice to entice the Israelites to be unfaithful.

The Protective Covering

Michelle shared a beautiful perspective on the “vow laws” for women in Chapter 30. While it can seem stifling at first glance, it was actually a provision of protection. God allowed women to deal directly with Him—a radical concept in the ancient world—but He also provided a system of accountability and covering through the men in their lives to ensure their spiritual commitments were wise and sustainable.

Not One Was Missing

The highlight of today’s reading is the miraculous report from the battlefield. In a war involving thousands, the generals realized that not one Israelite soldier was lost. This was a solitary, miraculous act in the history of Israel. It served as a “seal” of God’s presence, assuring the new generation that if they remained holy and obedient, the God who counted every name in the census would protect every life in the battle.

The Contemporary Hiss

Tricia shared a personal story about how enticement can show up in our lives today—often through subtle words of dissatisfaction or social media comparison. We have an enemy roaming like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. But we also have a Good Shepherd who is never tired of us and never annoyed by our weaknesses.

Journal Prompt

Is there something currently “enticing” you away from God’s best? Maybe it’s a “delight to the eyes” on social media or a “hiss” of discontent in your ear. Write down those things and then write the truth of the Good Shepherd over them: He is enough for me.

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Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for being our Good Shepherd. Thank You that You see every one of us and that not one is missing from Your sight. Lord, sharpen our ears to hear the “hiss” of enticement before we fall into a trap. Strengthen us to remain Resolute in our vows and faithful to Your call. We love You. Amen.

Day 67

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 27–29.

WORD OF THE DAY: Commissioned.

Have you ever worried that your concerns were too small for a “Big God”? Or wondered if you really have a purpose in His kingdom? Today’s reading answers those questions with a resounding “Yes, He sees you” and “Yes, you are called.”

The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind. It’s for every woman who desires a deeper connection with God and who wants to find her unique, God-given purpose!The Every Woman’s Bible is packed with engaging study notes and devotionals by over one hundred Bible scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world!Learn about topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding.

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Our Word of the Day is Commissioned.

To be commissioned means to be formally arranged or charged with a specific piece of work. We see this beautifully in the life of Joshua. Moses, the humble leader who had seen it all, laid his hands on Joshua to pass on his authority. But the real power didn’t come from Moses—it came from the Spirit of God that was already inside Joshua.

A God Who Sees Daughters

Michelle highlighted the daughters of Zelophehad today. In a time that was very male-oriented, these women stood up and said, “What about us?” God didn’t rebuke them; He validated them. He established a new law because He cared about their future. It’s a comforting reminder that God provides for His daughters and sees our individual needs within the crowd.

Spirit vs. Self

Tricia reminded us of the high stakes of following God’s Spirit. Moses was kept from the Promised Land because, in a moment of frustration, he acted out of his own “bitter spirit” rather than God’s. We all have those moments—when the house is a mess or people are grumbling—where our own spirit wants to take over. But because we have the Spirit of Truth as our Helper, we can choose a different path.

Journal Prompt

What has God commissioned you to do in this season of your life? It might be as grand as leading a nation or as quiet as writing a letter to a lonely friend. How can you lean into the Holy Spirit today to accomplish that work with grace instead of bitterness?

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Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for the Spirit of Truth who dwells within us. Thank You that You see our needs, just as You saw the daughters of Zelophehad. We ask that You would show us today what You have commissioned us to do. Help us to speak words of life and to follow Your lead with a humble heart. Amen.

Day 66

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 25–26.

WORD OF THE DAY: Zeal.

Have you ever met someone who was so passionate about a hobby or a job that it was contagious? That is exactly the kind of energy we see in today’s reading—only it’s directed toward the holiness of God.

The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind. It’s for every woman who desires a deeper connection with God and who wants to find her unique, God-given purpose!The Every Woman’s Bible is packed with engaging study notes and devotionals by over one hundred Bible scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world!Learn more at EveryWomansBible.com and discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection.

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Our Word of the Day is Zeal.

Zeal is the eager pursuit of something; it’s devotion, diligence, and passion. In Numbers 25, when a man thumbed his nose at God by bringing a foreign woman into the camp in broad daylight, Phinehas didn’t just sit by. He was zealous for God’s honor. Because he cared more about God’s reputation than being “polite,” the plague was stopped, and his family was given a lasting priesthood.

The Second Census: A Fresh Start

In Chapter 26, we see the results of the 40-year wandering. The original rebels are gone, and a new generation is being counted. It was a massive task, but as Michelle pointed out, God cares about the names. He mentions the daughters of Zelophehad (we’ll hear more about them tomorrow!), proving that He values the individuals within the multitude.

God’s Zeal for You

We often think of zeal as something we have for God, but don’t forget that God is zealous for you. He was so passionate about bringing you back to Him that He sent His Son to make a way. Our zeal for Him is simply a response to the fire He already has for us!

Journal Prompt

Michelle described zeal as being “on fire” and “sold out” for Christ. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your spiritual zeal lately? What is one small thing you can do today—whether it’s holding a baby in the nursery or writing a note to a friend—to show your passion for the things of God?

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Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your zeal for us. Thank You that You never stop pursuing us with Your unfailing love. Help us to be like Phinehas—people who are so devoted to Your honor that we aren’t afraid to stand up for the truth. Let our lives be a spotlight that draws others to Your goodness. Amen.

Day 65

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 22–24.

WORD OF THE DAY: Speak.

If you ever feel like God couldn’t possibly use you, today’s reading is for you. We see God drawing the attention of a non-Israelite diviner named Balaam through a talking donkey! It’s a whimsical story with a very serious message: God is sovereign over every word spoken.

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The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind with over one hundred scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world. It is packed with study notes and devotionals that address topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding. Discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection.

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Our Word of the Day is Speak.

To speak is to convey information or feelings. Today, we saw God speak through an animal and through a man who didn’t even truly know Him. It reminds us of Job, who said, “I knew of you, but now I know you.” When God speaks, everything changes.

The Star and the Scepter

One of the most beautiful parts of today’s reading is the prophecy in Numbers 24:17. Balaam, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, looks into the future and sees a “Star” and a “Scepter” rising out of Israel. This wasn’t just about a king for the Israelites; it was a glimpse of Jesus, the Savior for all nations. Just as God promised in Genesis 3 that the serpent’s head would be crushed, He uses Balaam to confirm that the victory is coming.

Using Your Voice

Michelle challenged us today to think about how we use our words. Are we speaking curses or blessings? Are we muttering like the Israelites in the desert, or are we speaking words of truth to those around us?

Journal Prompt

Balaam said, “I have sinned. I didn’t realize you were standing on the road to block my way.” Has God ever “blocked your way” to keep you from making a mistake? How did He get your attention? Spend some time today asking God to help you speak words that honor Him.

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Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for Your creative and loving heart. Thank You that You can use anyone and anything to share Your truth. Give us boldness today to speak Your words of grace to a world that needs to hear them. Help us to keep our eyes on the “Star of Jacob” and live in the light of Your promises. Amen.

Day 64

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 19–21.

WORD OF THE DAY: Rebellion.

Have you ever felt like you’re reading a long, thick novel where every small detail starts to matter? That is exactly how God is writing the story of Redemption. Today, we looked at the ritual of the Red Heifer in Numbers 19.

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The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind with over one hundred scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world. It is packed with study notes and devotionals that address topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding. Discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection.

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Our Word of the Day is Rebellion.

Rebellion is opposition to authority, and the Israelites were masters of it. From complaining about water to longing for the “good old days” of slavery in Egypt, their rebellious hearts led to poisonous snakes and missed inheritances.

The Red Heifer Connection

Michelle shared some incredible “wow factors” today. The red heifer was burned with cedar, hyssop, and scarlet yarn. Does that sound familiar?

• Cedar: Often thought to be the wood of the Cross.

• Hyssop: The branch used to offer Jesus wine on the Cross.

• Scarlet: The color of the robe mockingly placed on our Savior.

God wasn’t just giving “boring laws”; He was laying the groundwork for the most important moment in human history.

The High Cost of Hitting the Rock

Even our heroes have flaws. When Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it, he failed to demonstrate God’s holiness. It’s a sobering reminder that God takes our obedience seriously, especially when we are in positions of leadership. We mourn with Moses as he loses Miriam and Aaron, realizing that he, too, will finish his journey outside the Promised Land.

Journal Prompt

Dolly Parton’s song “Don’t Make Me Come Down There” reminds us that God disciplines those He loves. Is there an area of rebellion in your life right now? How can you turn that rebellion into repentance today? Remember: if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9).

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Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You that nothing in Your Word is happenstance. Thank You for the “Red Heifer” and the “Bronze Snake” that point us directly to Jesus. Forgive us for our rebellious hearts that so easily forget Your goodness. Help us to obey You wholeheartedly and to trust that Your discipline is always rooted in Your love. Amen.

Day 63

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 16–18.

WORD OF THE DAY: Honor.

We have reached the end of Week Nine! It’s been quite a journey, and today’s reading is one of the most intense yet. From the ground literally swallowing up rebels to a dry piece of wood growing almonds overnight, God is making one thing very clear: Holiness and leadership are serious matters to Him.

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The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind with over one hundred scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world. It is packed with study notes and devotionals that address topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding. Discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection.

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Our Word of the Day is Honor.

To honor is to pay high respect or great esteem. In Numbers 16, Korah and his followers did the opposite—they rebelled against the leadership God had put in place. They looked at Moses and Aaron and said, “Why are you more special than us?” They failed to honor the positions God had consecrated.

The Miracle of the Almonds

To put an end to the “emo” grumbling (as Tricia’s daughter might say!), God had the leader of each tribe bring a staff. Only Aaron’s staff didn’t just grow; it budded, blossomed, and produced fruit in a single night. It was a beautiful, living sign of God’s choice.

Providing for the Servants

In Chapter 18, we see God’s heart for those in ministry. The Levites didn’t get a plot of land to farm; they were busy serving God and the people. Instead, God instructed the other tribes to bring a tenth of their best to support them. As Michelle shared from her 25 years in ministry, there is a “beautiful tension” in relying on God’s provision through His people.

Journal Prompt

How can you show honor to the people in your life who serve in ministry? It doesn’t always have to be financial; sometimes a note of encouragement or a night of babysitting for a pastor’s family can be the “almond blossom” they need to keep going. Who can you encourage today?

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Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the leaders You have placed in our lives. Help us to be a people of honor rather than a people of grumbling. We thank You for Your provision and the way You care for those who serve You. Fill us with a spirit of gratitude as we head into another week of Your Word. Amen.

Day 62

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 14–15; Psalm 90.

WORD OF THE DAY: Decided.

Thank you to Branson Family Homes for sponsoring this episode of The Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle. Learn more about Branson Family Homes here!

There are days that define the rest of our lives. For the Israelites standing at the edge of the Promised Land, today was that day. They sat at a crossroads between the promise and the problem, and they decided to let the problem win.

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The Every Woman’s Bible is a study Bible for the heart and mind with over one hundred scholars, writers, and contributors—all women—from around the world. It is packed with study notes and devotionals that address topics relevant to women with cultural, historical, and literary clarity and context to gain greater understanding. Discover God’s heart for you through deep study and reflection.

Learn more at EveryWomansBible.com.

Our Word of the Day is Decided.

To decide is to make a final judgment or to settle a dispute. The Israelites “decided” in their hearts that Egypt was better than the desert, and that the giants were bigger than God. This decision wasn’t just a fleeting thought; it was a rejection of the One who had parted the sea for them.

A Different Spirit

In the midst of a nation that decided to rebel, we find Caleb and Joshua. God noted that Caleb had a “different spirit.” While the rest of the camp decided to retreat, Caleb decided to follow wholeheartedly. This choice spared his life and guaranteed his inheritance. It’s a vivid reminder that even when the majority decides to walk in fear, we can decide to walk in faith.

The Prayer of the Wanderer

We also read Psalm 90 today—the prayer of Moses. In the shadow of the decision that led to forty years of wandering, Moses writes about the eternity of God. Even when we make a wrong turn or face the consequences of a poor decision, God remains our dwelling place. He is the one who can “establish the work of our hands” even in the wilderness.

Journal Prompt

Think about a major decision you are facing right now. If you decided based purely on God’s power and not your own strength, how would your choice change? How does knowing God is “slow to anger and filled with unfailing love” (Numbers 14:18) help you when you’ve made a wrong decision?

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Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You that Your promises aren’t canceled by our detours. Help us to be like Caleb—people who have decided to follow You wholeheartedly, regardless of the giants in the land. When we are tempted to turn back to our “Egypt,” remind us of Your unfailing love. Teach us to number our days so we may spend them wisely. Amen.

Day 61

TODAY’S READING: Numbers 11–13.

WORD OF THE DAY: Grumble.

Have you ever found yourself “painting pictures of Egypt”? It’s that dangerous habit of looking back at the past and leaving out all the parts that lacked. The Israelites did it today—they remembered the fish and cucumbers of Egypt but forgot the bricks and the bondage.

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Our Word of the Day is Grumble.

To grumble is to complain in a bad-tempered way. It’s a low murmur that can start with one person and infect an entire nation. In Numbers 11, the grumbling starts on the outskirts and moves to the center. It even gets to Moses!

The Power of the 70

Moses was overwhelmed by the weight of the people’s complaints. God’s solution wasn’t just to fix the problem, but to share the burden. He took the Spirit that was on Moses and put it on 70 elders. This is a beautiful reminder that God provides community for the heavy lifting of leadership.

Giant Killers vs. Giant Observers

When the twelve spies went into the Promised Land, they all saw the same thing: a land of abundance and a land of giants. The difference was their focus. Ten spies focused on the giants and saw themselves as grasshoppers. Caleb focused on God and saw a certain victory.

Journal Prompt

Tricia shared about her family’s “year without grumbling” and how they realized they needed the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) to truly change. Which “fruit”—patience, peace, or self-control—do you need most today to silence a grumbling heart?

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Closing Prayer

Lord, forgive us for our grumbling. We confess that we often focus on the giants in our path instead of the power in Your arm. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit today. Replace our complaints with praise and our fear with the confidence of Caleb. We trust that You are taking us forward. Amen.