Numbers 9:22-23 (NKJV)
Whether it was two days, a month, or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, the children of Israel would remain encamped and not journey; but when it was taken up, they would journey.  At the command of the Lord they remained encamped, and at the command of the Lord they journeyed; they kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by the hand of Moses.

When we reflect on the time frame between the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt to them crossing over the Jordan River, it is quite amazing to read how God protected and provided for them.  He gave them the Law at Mount Sinai; much needed after four centuries of Egyptian law.  He provided a worship center for them with the creation of the tabernacle.  God also revealed Himself visually with the pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night.  When the cloud moved, the people were to break down the tabernacle, assemble the troops, and follow the cloud (God) until He stopped.  There they would set up the tabernacle again until the cloud moved.   

We do not have pillars of cloud or pillars of fire today.  However, we do have the Holy Spirit who dwells in us as believers in Christ Jesus.  In the days of Moses and the wilderness, it seems impossible that people would miss the Cloud of God moving unless they were sleeping.  Even then, perhaps the movement came with a sound that would awaken the deepest sleeper.  Who knows?  Today, in order to move with the cloud, we must be extremely diligent in our walk with God.  How can we do this?  We can abide with Christ (John 15:5), read and keep His Word (Josh. 1:8, Ps. 119:11), pray (1 Chr. 16:11, Ps. 141:2, Matt. 6:6), and walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:16).  However the means, position yourself to move with the cloud. 

Why is it important to move with the cloud?  First, it is an act of obedience.  God loves obedience.  It is greater than sacrifice (1 Sam. 15:22).  Secondly, it assures you will always be in the presence of God.  When we are in His presence we have rest (Ex. 33:14) and a time of refreshing (Acts 3:19).  These are two great reasons to move with the cloud.  Why would someone not want to move with the cloud? Constantly seek Him.  If He is still, be still.  If He is moving, move, but move with Him. 

Unfortunately, we see a recurring theme in sports too often.  The cloud has moved but the athlete remains.  A boxer fights one more match or two and wishes he would not have.  Tennis players spend years pursuing another championship they will never receive.  Once excellent hockey goalies end their careers in mediocrity.  

How about you?  Are you stuck somewhere with the cloud nowhere in sight?  Did you see it leave and choose to stay, or were you so immersed in whatever it is you’re doing that you never realized the cloud left?  If this is you, you’re not alone and there is still time.  Acknowledge this to God.  He still loves you. Like the prodigal son, He will welcome you back with open arms (Luke 15:20).  You will always be in the presence of God when you move with the cloud. 

If God is at the soup kitchen, go to the soup kitchen.  If He is at the bedside of a sick person, visit the sick person.  If He is in the midst of a local or international ministry, join Him.  Where His Spirit leads, follow.  Move with the cloud.

Copyright 2025 Michael Callahan Ministries, LLC