How to respond when you have a grievance against those in authority

Miriam’s name means “bitterness.” From Exodus 2, we know that she was the one who stood guard when her mother put baby Moses in the basket into the Nile. She was her mother’s eyes and ears as she watched to see what happened to the baby. She was the one who bravely spoke to Pharaoh’s daughter and offered to find a Hebrew nurse for the baby.

But now it would seem that she was discontent with the influential role God had given her, and she wanted more. Miriam tried to step out of her role and wanted to step into her brother’s. So, she launched a power play that backfired. In Numbers 12, she and Aaron try to establish a revolt against his authority. We know that Moses had the authority to lead directly from God. Her rebellion and discontent were ultimately against God Himself.

We can fall into this trap, too: in our churches, the ministry roles God gives us, our workplaces, complaints about our boss, and even at home, our discontent with where we find ourselves can cause us to lose influence for good. A thirst for power can never be a legitimate motivation for rebelling against authority. If you have a grievance against your boss, your first hope should be to resolve it with them. But if your purpose is to magnify your power, then your cravings have made you incapable of discerning God’s authority in the situation.

How do you respond when others oppose your authority?

Although Moses was both powerful and responded to the leadership challenge with gentleness and humility, The Bible says, "Moses was very humble, more so than anyone else on the face of the earth” (Num. 12:3).

When we remember that Moses wrote this verse, it makes us slightly suspicious. We are prone to raise an eyebrow whenever someone brags about their humility.

But the basic meaning of the Hebrew root for humble is "to be bowed down." One could be bowed down by force (i.e., subdued) with submissiveness (i.e., humble) or with care and trouble (i.e., miserable or afflicted). One commentator said that the text would be better translated, "Now this man Moses was more depressed or afflicted than any man of the land." In other words, this criticism was so devastating to Moses that he couldn't respond. He was broken by these words from his brother and sister. It hurts when a dear friend or family criticises you behind your back.

Moses doesn't respond in kind. When we are hurt deeply, our first response is often to strike back. When we strike back during these times, we often inflict wounds that can never be repaired. Moses needs to do this. He refuses to stir the fire. Moses doesn't try to defend himself. Moses doesn't list all the things he's done. He doesn't parade his accomplishments. He remains silent. He allows God to handle things.

He does not seek revenge because that's God's job. Only God sees the situation. He alone knows all the mitigating circumstances. He knows what is really behind all the criticism and hostility. So, Moses continues to pray for those who hurt him. When faced with the bitter pain of attack from those we love, we should entrust our case to the Lord.

Application Question:

1. Have you ever had a dear friend or family member criticise you behind your back? How did you respond?

Quote:

An evidence that our will has been broken is that we begin to thank God for that which once seemed so bitter, knowing that His will is good and that, in His time and in His way, He is able to make the most bitter waters sweet. - Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Prayer:

Lord, I pray that You will help me not to harbour any bitterness but be like Moses and pray for those who hurt me. Amen.