Wandering: A Study In NumbersSample

What does it say?

God provided water for His people despite Moses’ disobedience. 

What does it mean?

For decades, Moses faithfully followed God while the Israelites complained, even though God consistently met their needs. In a moment of frustration, Moses became angry with the people and disobeyed God. Rather than doing as God instructed, Moses rebuked the entire community and reacted in anger. Moses had a responsibility to demonstrate God’s mercy and grace. Instead, he chose to give in to frustration. Consequently, Moses and Aaron lost the privilege of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. God’s charge was that they “did not trust” or “honor me as holy in the sight of the people.” The momentary lapse had devastating consequences.

How should I respond?

We all experience moments of frustration, but too often we blame events and circumstances for our responses. Our obedience and our reaction is our choice. When you feel yourself growing impatient or angry, you have to decide whether you’ll give in to how you feel in the moment or demonstrate God’s love and mercy. Who frustrates you? What response to that person would be obedience to God? What response would be disobedience? Regardless of the circumstances, we are meant to be examples of Christ. Choose to show Christ’s example in every interaction today.