Learning From the ShadowsSample

We Should Follow Instructions

The Word of God says in 1 Corinthians 10:9, “We should not test Christ, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes.” We should not provoke Christ.

This verse makes reference to the contempt the people of Israel felt on a daily basis. They were constantly complaining against Moses. In Numbers 11:4–6, it says, “Now the mixed multitude who were among them yielded to intense craving; so the children of Israel also wept again and said: “Who will give us meat to eat? We remember the fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our whole being is dried up; there is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!”

The people of Israel complained against Moses saying they could no longer bear to eat that boring manna. They wanted something that would smell and taste good. Since they were not able to smell or understand the benefits that came with eating the manna, they despised the Lord’s food and provision, wishing for some meat. They despised life. They wanted something flavorful, even though it would cause them stomach pains. 

1 Corinthians 10:10 says, “And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.” To grumble is to complain in ignorance. They did not understand the how or the process. When they found themselves in the desert, without food, and could not see with their physical eyes a way to survive, they began to complain against God and Moses. 

1 Corinthians 10:11 says, “These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.” Everything that happened in the history of Israel was not what God wanted to do. That was the manual of instructions and examples. 

When a manufacturer makes something, before he releases the product to the market, he writes a manual of instructions so people can know how to use that product. He first writes the manual, and then releases the product. 

Everything that was written was not for Israel; they just lived it. Their story was written as a lesson for the children of God. We must learn not to imitate their bad example. Instead, we should live in the reality that Christ provides us, which are His grace and riches. 

This devotional plan is based on a message in Spanish from Pastor Gerardo Cardenas. If you wish to watch the full message, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWZMgS8VmgI