Denied Passage - Opposition in the Making

Numbers 20:18 But Edom answered:
“You may not pass through here; if you try, we will march out and attack you with the sword.”

     Opposition comes in many forms. Even when we do our best to not pick a fight, a fight can come. (Ask any married couple!) You can be sitting in your office, or doing your shopping, or any activity you like, and all of a sudden opposition arises. You didn't see it coming, and you don't know why it is there, but it is right in your face.
     The people of Israel had left Egypt and are getting ready to finally enter the Promised Land. They have been living in the desert for 40 years because of the rebellion in their hearts. And now they are finally getting ready to head north to freedom.
     But there are people in the way, nations who are going to defend their territory. Moses, who is the leader of the Israelites, wants unhindered passage through these territories. He writes a diplomatic letter asking for permission and spelling out a very specific arrangement so that he has the best chance for through passage.
     But the leader of the territory says "NO!" And not only that, he threatens the Israelites with war. Talk about unnecessary escalation. Moses is trying his best to be peaceful and the leader of the other nation won't have anything to do with peace.
     You see, civil discourse is something that ebbs and flows throughout history. We can see from our passage, and from our contemporary political environment, that even with the best of intentions things can go terribly wrong.
     The Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the church in Rome these words.

Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Moses tried his hardest to live at peace without compromising his mission. That needs to be our approach to getting things done. We need to work toward peaceful resolution. But we also need to recognize that there will be those who oppose us. We are not responsible for their action or reaction. Some people are just onery. They just don't want peace. They will put up a fight even if you agree with them.
     So when you face situations today or in this next week, seek to approach other people in a way that brings peace. Don't you become the one who projects a stubborn spirit. Accomplish the mission in a way that reflects well on the One who sent us on the mission. We bear His Image, so wear it well.