Or whether it were two days, &c.— But if the cloud stood, and remained upon the tabernacle for some days, or for a whole month, or for a longer interval, the children of Israel abode in their tents, &c. Houbigant. See his note.
REFLECTIONS.—We have here, the miraculous pillar of the cloud resting on the tabernacle in the day of its erection: God gives them orders how to regulate their marches by the motions and guidance of it.
1. They were to rest as the cloud rested, whether the time were long or short. God's time is the best time: we may not run, till he calls. Faith will beget patient waiting upon God. 2. When the cloud moved by day or night, they were to be always ready, and begin their march. Note; (1.) That we must have our tents struck by death is certain; the time when, uncertain: it becomes us, therefore, to be always prepared, that when God calls us out of the body, we may have nothing to do but to die. (2.) It will be comfortable to every true Israelite to see the cloud remove. This wilderness-state is not our rest; we look for a more abiding mansion in the skies. (3.) They were not to stay or encamp on the march, but by the direction of their guide. We must not desire to choose the place of our own abode; let God fix our habitation, and there contentedly let us pitch our tent.
How great was the favour thus visibly to have the presence of God among them, and to be under such a guardian and guide! Blessed be God, their mercies are our own, as to their substance; God's word and spirit, and providence, lead us in his holy ways, and keep us safely journeying heavenward. And while we yield ourselves up to him without reserve, we may confidently exercise faith in our safe arrival at the promised land of everlasting glory.