Scripture: Numbers 14-15;Psalm 90. Click here to view full scripture.
Observation: What was going on in the Bible at this time?
Once again, the Israelites began to complain and grumble against Moses and Aaron. They also refused to enter the promised land. Joshua and Caleb grew very distressed at the Israelites refusing to enter the land God had promised them because they were afraid. God pointed out that the Israelites had failed to trust and obey Him ten times, and God punished them by letting them wander in the desert until they died. Everyone, the whole nation, except for Joshua, Caleb, Moses and Aaron showed contempt for and distrust for God. After 40 years, God said that a new generation would have the chance to enter Canaan, the land God had promised. When the Israelites realized their foolish mistakes, it was too late, and God knew their hearts. Numbers Chapter 15 speaks of God being willing to forgive those who made unintentional errors if they realized their mistakes and corrected them by giving offerings. Psalm 90 is a prayer to God from Moses.
Application: How can we apply this to our lives?
The Israelites were always so quick to complain instead of remembering who was in control of the situations they encountered – God was in control. We should always consider the larger perspective of a situation before we join in with the negativity and complaining, always putting our full trust in our God. Never stop trusting in God. If He brings us to a situation, He will bring us through it. When Joshua and Caleb encouraged the Israelites to move ahead into the promised land, the people rejected them and even talked about killing them. Sometimes we do not enjoy the advice that we get from others. However, we should not be too quick to reject the advice, but rather evaluate it carefully and compare it to the teachings in God’s Word. We never know when the advice that we receive is God’s message to us. Caleb followed God wholeheartedly and was rewarded for his obedience. We, also, should be wholeheartedly in our commitment to obey and trust God. When we fail to trust God, it often brings about larger problems. We, as believers, are to be selfless. We must follow and serve God without expecting anything in return. We serve God for who He is, not from what we will get from Him.
Prayer: What can we pray for in regards to these passages?
Heavenly Father, Thank You for this beautiful day. We pray for protection over our loved ones and ourselves. Please help us to always consider the larger perspective of a situation before we join in with complaining. Help us to put our complete faith and trust in You in everything. Help us never to stop trusting in You. Please help us to consider and evaluate the advice of others before we are quick to reject it, for it may be a message from You. Help us to be selfless and to help others in need. We want to serve You, God, for who You are. Please forgive us for our sins. We love You and thank You. – in Jesus’ name we pray, amen.