Chariots of Clouds

Most people like sunny days as opposed to dark and cloudy days. There is even a class of medical classification for the negative effects of cloudy days on our mind and body. We tend to speak of the beauty of any given day in relation to how much of the sun and sky we are able to see. However, the scripture encourages us to view the clouds as a place to experience the presence of God. “God’s way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet." (Nahum 1:3). Even though sorrows and sufferings may bring rain drops of tears in the clouds, it is through those clouds that we can feel the presence of God. Often we get caught up in the sight of the clouds that we lose sight of who is on the chariot. "God makes the clouds His chariot" (Psalm 104:3).

Throughout the scripture, we read that God descended to the people in the clouds. In Exodus 19 we see that "a cloud covered the mount and the glory of the Lord abode on Sinai"(Exod. 24:15,16). A cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. We also see that God’s presence travelled with His people as a pillar of cloud.

God has used clouds to protect His people. "And the cloud came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, so that the enemy did not come near" (Exodus 14:19,20). At times we may see some clouds get stalled in our lives that we may not like. It could be a cloud of financial trouble, unemployment, or a bad relationship. Our earnest prayers are answered in the darkest of clouds and we will see His Chariot in the cloud.

Clouds are affirmation of God’s calling. On the mount of transfiguration, the disciples witnessed the glory of the Son of God affirmed in a cloud. "This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!". Peter says in his letter “we heard God’s voice in the cloud in the presence of Moses and Elijah". These two Old Testament heros have witnessed God coming to them in the clouds on mount Tabor and Sinai. They become witnesses of the cloud that affirmed the calling of Jesus as the Son of God.

Jesus ascended into heaven in the clouds as the disciples were looking up (Acts 1:9,10). He is coming back in the clouds. "Behold, he comes with clouds, and every eye shall see him." (Rev 1:7).

Before long another chariot of cloud will appear at the door step of life. We do not know what time or form the clouds will appear. I know for sure one thing, that the one who rides on that chariot of cloud will be the savior, the Lord Jesus to take me to the land of Immanuel.

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Fulll sermon audio: Mathew Philip

Blessings

Mathew Philip

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