Today’s Reading: Numbers 25-31; Psalm 79; John 2:13-25; 2 Corinthians 2:12-17

The next few chapters describe the many offerings God asked His people to make, and the timing of each of those offerings. Each offering had a purpose and came with detailed instructions. These sacrificial moments were described as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (28:2, 29:8). He then expressed to them the importance of keeping any vow or promise made.

“This is what the Lord has commanded: A man who makes a vow to the Lord or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. He must do exactly what he said he would do.” – Numbers 30:2

If you say you are going to do something, you should do it. If you commit yourself to something, you should faithfully follow through on your commitment.

OBEDIENCE TO GOD IS EXPECTED AND SACRIFICIAL LIVING IS LIKE A PLEASING AROMA TO HIM.

The Israelite people were fickle and lacked the integrity God was calling them to. As they settled into the land of Canaan, there were Midianites living in the area (descendants of Abraham from his wife Keturah). The Israelites were strongly influenced by the Midianites, having sex with their women and participating in the worship of idols. This brought about a plague on God’s people.

We cannot be indifferent to the sinful world around us. If God calls us to make a change in our life, we must do it. If He reveals in us a sinful attitude or a temptation that is pulling us away from him, we must rid ourselves of all that is causing us to drift away from him. We must keep our promise to the Lord.

WE MUST MAKE SURE NOTHING BECOMES MORE IMPORTANT THAN LIVING OUT OUR FAITH IN HIM.

Help us, O God of our salvation!
Help us for the glory of your name.
Save us and forgive our sins
for the honor of your name. – Psalm 79:9

God gave Moses one more mission — to lead the people of Israel in a battle against the Midianites. The army was successful in winning the battle but they compromised by bringing back the women and children along with the plunder. They held onto that which had caused them to sin in the first place — sexual relationships with those who did not believe in God. The Lord had plans to bless His people but they were not fully following His instructions.

It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration, so Jesus went to Jerusalem. In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; he also saw dealers at tables exchanging foreign money. Jesus made a whip from some ropes and chased them all out of the Temple. He drove out the sheep and cattle, scattered the money changers’ coins over the floor, and turned over their tables. Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, “Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!” – John 2:13-16

WHAT HAVE WE ALLOWED INTO OUR LIVES THAT IS CAUSING US TO SLOWLY DRIFT AWAY FROM GOD?

What is causing our hearts to be unfaithful to the One we have committed our lives to? Is there anything we have made room for in our lives that needs to be driven out in order to serve God with integrity and purity? What have we allowed into our lives that is causing us to slowly drift away from God?

Lord, thank you for being a holy God who cares to have a relationship with us. Reveal in us all we have let slip into our lives, drawing our attention away from you. Cleanse us from the impurities of this world and the desire for earthly gain, so that our lives can be a pleasing aroma to you and to those in need of salvation. May our love for you be displayed in our lives with integrity and obedience. Amen.

But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God. – 2 Corinthians 2:14-17

Today’s Reading: Numbers 23-24; Psalm 124; James 1:19-25

God had a purpose for Balaam — a place he needed him to be. Because Balaam responded in obedience when God blocked his way, God was able to use him in this next story.

After hearing from the Lord, Balaam traveled to King Balak but warned him, “Look, now I have come, but I have no power to say whatever I want. I will speak only the message that God puts in my mouth” (Numbers 22:38). Next Balaam sought out that message.

SEARCHING FOR SIGNAL

King Balak took Balaam up to Bamoth-baal, built altars and made sacrifices with him in hopes that Balaam would curse Israel. Balaam went alone to the top of the hill and God met him there, giving Balaam the words to say and the message to give — a message blessing Israel instead of cursing them. Frustrated, Balak took Balaam to another place overlooking the Israelites. Balak asked Balaam to at least curse some of the Israelites if he couldn’t curse all of them. They built more altars and offered more sacrifices. God commanded Balaam again to bless the people of Israel.

“Rise up, Balak, and listen! Hear me, son of Zippor. God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Listen, I received a command to bless; God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it!…” – Numbers 23:18-20

Balak took Balaam to a third place, hoping it would please God to curse the Israelites from there. God again blessed His people and Balak flew into a rage. God gave Balaam a final message for King Balak. Not only would He bless the people of Israel, He would use Israel to crush and destroy the nation of Moab.

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?

I wonder if we ever communicate with God in the same way that King Balak did. Like moving from place to place to get better cell phone reception, do we refuse to listen to God’s first reply to us and continue to manipulate our circumstances to get a different result? “Can you hear me now?” When God gives us clear instructions, do we stall and try other methods to get what we want instead of obeying and accepting His plan? Do we find ourselves asking God for confirmation when He has already been clear with us?

God, this morning we have gone alone to our mountaintop and you have met us there. Show us your plan and give us direction, giving us also the strength to accept your will. Reveal if there is anything you have told us to do and we have ignored it, hoping for a different message next time we hear from you. Forgive us for manipulating our situation instead of submitting to your Lordship. God, may our heart’s desire to please and serve you be stronger than our own selfish desires. We love you, Lord. Amen.

WHAT IF GOD HAD NOT ANSWERED OUR CALL?

I am grateful this morning that we serve the God who watches over us and protects us from our enemies. How many times has the Lord blocked the schemes of those who wish us harm? How many times has He confused our enemies or refused to let their curses land on us? What if the Lord had not been on our side? This morning I long to climb to a bare hill and thank the Lord for the times He has protected me and I was unaware of the threat of evil. May God hear our voices uniting in thanksgiving to Him this morning.

What if the Lord had not been on our side?
Let all Israel repeat:
What if the Lord had not been on our side
when people attacked us?
They would have swallowed us alive
in their burning anger.
The waters would have engulfed us;
a torrent would have overwhelmed us.
Yes, the raging waters of their fury
would have overwhelmed our very lives.
Praise the Lord,
who did not let their teeth tear us apart!
We escaped like a bird from a hunter’s trap.
The trap is broken, and we are free!
Our help is from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth. – Psalm 124:1-8

Today’s Reading: Numbers 22; Psalm 128 & 119:25-32; Acts 9:1-19

Now King Balak of Moab saw everything that happened and watched the Israelites camp across the river from Jericho. He sent for Balaam, a Midianite prophet, offering him money to curse the people of Israel. Unlike King Sihon, Balaam understood the power of the Israelites’ God because he was a descendant of Abraham through his wife Keturah. Balaam invited the elders of Moab (descendants of Lot) and Midian to spend the night while he called on the Lord for direction.

DO NOT GO. DO NOT CURSE THESE PEOPLE I HAVE BLESSED.

The next morning Balaam sent the elders back to King Balak with the message that he could not come because the Lord would not let him. But Balak was not ready to give up. This time he sent a group of more distinguished officials to Balaam with a generous financial offer if he would just come and curse the Israelites.

But Balaam responded to Balak’s messengers, “Even if Balak were to give me his palace filled with silver and gold, I would be powerless to do anything against the will of the Lord my God. But stay here one more night, and I will see if the Lord has anything else to say to me.” – Numbers 22:18-19

YOU MAY GO BUT DO ONLY WHAT I TELL YOU TO DO.

The next morning, Balaam started out but the Lord sent an angel to block the way. Although Balaam could not see anything in the road, the donkey could see the angel of the Lord standing with a drawn sword in his hand. The donkey bolted so Balaam beat it and turned it back to the road. As they moved towards the place in the road that narrowed between two vineyard walls, the angel of the Lord again blocked the way. When the donkey tried to squeeze by the angel, it crushed Balaam’s foot against the wall. Again, Balaam beat the donkey. Farther down the road the donkey saw the angel again and laid down, causing Balaam to beat the animal a third time.

Balaam was so focused on his own plan, what he thought he should do, that he was both blind and deaf to God’s attempts to block his plan. So the Lord gave the donkey the ability to ask Balaam what he had done to deserve being beaten three times. Balaam was mad that the donkey had made him look like a fool.

Then the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the roadway with a drawn sword in his hand. Balaam bowed his head and fell face down on the ground before him.

“Why have you beaten your donkey these three times?” the angel of the Lord demanded. “Look, I have come to block your way because you are stubbornly resisting me. Three times the donkey saw me and shied away; otherwise, I would certainly have killed you by now and spared the donkey.”

Then Balaam confessed to the angel of the Lord, “I have sinned. I didn’t realize you were standing in the road to block my way. I will return home if you are against my going.” – Numbers 22:31-34

YOU MAY GO BUT SAY ONLY WHAT I TELL YOU TO SAY.

Once God had his attention, Balaam’s response was one of repentance and obedience. Now Balaam’s heart was ready for the journey ahead. He set out to do only what God told him to do and to say only what God told him to say.

We live in a world of smartphones, smart tvs and smart cars. If we need an answer to a question, we ask Siri or AI. If we need directions, we go to Google Maps. If we want to hear a song, we ask Alexa. Our exercise bike has become a Peloton with online trainers, and we do more talking on social media than we do face to face. But has our culture become so “smart” that we have stopped following God’s word and stopped hearing His voice?

So I ask myself this question again today — Do I trust in my own leadership or in the God who led me to this moment? Am I focused on my own plan or listening for God’s plan? Am I pushing after what I want instead of listening for God’s instruction? I want to respond as Balaam did. I want to be the one who has a heart of repentance and is willing to go with God’s plan the moment I realize that I am doing my own thing or that I have taken my eyes off the Lord. I want to be smarter than my mode of transportation.

I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your decrees. Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. – Psalm 119:26–27

Thank you for the reminder, Lord, to live in faith and not fear. Please show me if at any moment today I am trusting more in myself than in You. Quiet the distractions and circumstances in my life so that I can better listen for your clear instructions and your plan. My desire is for your way and not mine. I love you, Lord. Amen.

How joyful are those who fear the Lord — all who follow his ways! – Psalm 128:1

Today’s Reading: Numbers 20–21, Psalm 9

When God’s people camped at Kadesh, there was no water and they began to rebel against Moses and Aaron once again. They blamed the leaders for their discomfort and for their circumstances. Without water, there would be no grain, no grapes, no pomegranates, and obviously nothing to drink. Moses and Aaron had just buried their sister, Miriam, and now their leadership role was requiring them to deal with the complaints of the people. The brothers fell face down before the Lord with this new problem and God gave them clear instructions, just as He is generously in the habit of doing for us.

“You and Aaron must take the staff and assemble the entire community. As the people watch, speak to the rock over there, and it will pour out its water. You will provide enough water from the rock to satisfy the entire community and their livestock.” – Numbers 20:8

Moses took his staff of leadership with the intent of following God’s instructions but, when the moment came for him to act on his leadership, Moses trusted in his staff more than He relied on His God. He was instructed to speak to the rock and he instead struck the rock. Water poured forth and the needs were supplied, but not in the way God had instructed Moses. Moses found himself relying on the strength of his own leadership instead of God’s miraculous power, and the consequence was great.

DO I TRUST IN MY OWN LEADERSHIP OR IN THE GOD WHO LED ME TO THIS MOMENT?

“Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!” – Numbers 20:12

This was a big consequence for Moses. You see Moses was not called by God to rescue the Israelites from Egypt; he was called to be the leader through whom God would deliver His people from their enemies. Moses was not tasked with leading the Israelites to the Promised Land; he was assigned to follow God as God daily led His people by a cloud during the day and fire at night. Humbled by the assignment, Moses had given his life to obeying what God told him to do. But because he had a moment of doing things his own way instead of God’s, because he received the glory instead of allowing God to demonstrate His holiness, Moses would never cross over the Jordan River again.

The second consequence was just as great. Because they did not follow God’s instructions regarding the water at Meribah, it was time for Aaron to join their ancestors in death. So Moses climbed Mount Hor with his brother and his nephew. At the summit, he removed the priestly garments from Aaron and placed them on Eleazar. Then Aaron died on the mountain and all of Israel mourned for him for 30 days (20:22-29).

AM I FOCUSED ON MY OWN PLAN OR LISTENING FOR GOD’S PLAN?

Things changed after this day on the mountain. Instead of living in peace, the Israelites entered into a season of conflict. They were attacked by the Canaanites, taking some of them prisoner. The Israelites cried out to God, and He gave them victory over their enemies (21:1-3).

As they continued their long journey through the wilderness, God’s people began to complain about both Moses and God. They were tired of wandering and sick of the manna that God had provided for them. So the Lord sent poisonous snakes to get their attention once more. They cried out to the Lord and He provided a way for them to seek healing, but it required them to place their focus where He was telling them to set their eyes (21:4-9).

FOLLOWING GOD REQUIRES OBEDIENCE AND FOCUS, FINDING CONTENTMENT IN GOD’S TIMING.

God’s people continued to travel along the ravine created by the Arnon River, which established a boundary between the land of the Moabites and the land of the Amorites. Next they arrived at Beer, a place that held the memory of God providing water for His people. This reminder helped the people find their song of praise again.

As they stepped out of the wilderness, the Israelites requested access to the land of the Amorites from their king. Even though they were a large group of people, they vowed to stay on the king’s road in order not to damage the fields or vineyards. They even promised not to drink from the wells as they traveled through. But King Sihon refused and instead attacked God’s people. But the Lord gave them victory over the Amorites and then next over King Og of Bashan.

The Israelites were following God out of the wilderness. They were experiencing attack after attack, yet the Lord was faithfully giving them victory over those who were choosing to oppose God’s people. He was providing for them according to His plan, each day bringing them closer to the land He had promised to them and to their forefathers. Following God did not mean a life without opposition but the Lord was with them each step of the way.

TRUST IN THE GOD WHO LED YOU TO THIS MOMENT. FOLLOW HIM AS HE DISPLAYS HIS HOLINESS.

The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.
For he who avenges murder cares for the helpless.
He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer. – Psalm 9:9-12

Today’s Reading: Numbers 18-19; Psalm 115; Luke 9:57-62

“I am giving you the priesthood as your special privilege of service.” – Numbers 18:7b

It is a privilege to be called into full-time ministry; it is an honor to receive instructions from the Lord to give your life in service to the church. Some easily say yes to God’s calling, and some struggle to answer the call with a willing and obedient heart. You see, although it is a privilege to serve within the church, and that privilege comes with many blessings, it is also a great responsibility. There is a need for wisdom and discernment, and pastors are often asked by God to sacrifice a great deal in order to follow the calling He has placed on their lives.

“I myself have chosen your fellow Levites from among the Israelites to be your special assistants. They are a gift to you, dedicated to the Lord for service in the Tabernacle.” – Numbers 18:6

IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO SERVE WITHIN THE CHURCH

There were those God had called into priesthood and those God called to assist in the ministry of the church. It is also a privilege to assist those who have a calling on their life. It is a beautiful thing when teams of individuals within the church partner for the sake of accomplishing all God wants to do through the church. Hours are given every week by people who are willing to do whatever, whenever, to support their pastors in the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

The Lord gave these further instructions to Aaron: “I myself have put you in charge of all the holy offerings that are brought to me by the people of Israel.” – Numbers 18:8a

The Lord also told Moses, “Give these instructions to the Levites: When you receive from the people of Israel the tithes I have assigned as your allotment, give a tenth of the tithes you receive—a tithe of the tithe—to the Lord as a sacred offering. The Lord will consider this offering to be your harvest offering, as though it were the first grain from your own threshing floor or wine from your own winepress. You must present one-tenth of the tithe received from the Israelites as a sacred offering to the Lord. This is the Lord’s sacred portion, and you must present it to Aaron the priest. Be sure to give to the Lord the best portions of the gifts given to you.” – Numbers 18:25-29

WITH PRIVILEGE COMES GREAT RESPONSIBILITY

Every year, leaders within the church gather to write their annual budget. Most people take this responsibility very seriously. They understand the sacrifice so many people in the church have made to give their tithes, and they understand that this money is a sacred gift to God. We pray for God to give the leaders in our church wisdom to use each dollar given as a way to draw all of us closer to God — for the sake of both discipleship and evangelism.

“But be careful not to treat the holy gifts of the people of Israel as though they were common. If you do, you will die.” – Numbers 18:32b

“Yes, I am giving you all these holy offerings that the people of Israel bring to the Lord. They are for you and your sons and daughters, to be eaten as your permanent share. This is an eternal and unbreakable covenant between the Lord and you, and it also applies to your descendants.” – Number 18:19

Then the Lord said to Aaron: “You, your sons, and your relatives from the tribe of Levi will be held responsible for any offenses related to the sanctuary. But you and your sons alone will be held responsible for violations connected with the priesthood.” – Numbers 18:1

“Only the Levites may serve at the Tabernacle, and they will be held responsible for any offenses against it.” – Numbers 18:23a

​​And the Lord said to Aaron, “You priests will receive no allotment of land or share of property among the people of Israel. I am your share and your allotment. As for the tribe of Levi, your relatives, I will compensate them for their service in the Tabernacle. Instead of an allotment of land, I will give them the tithes from the entire land of Israel.” – Numbers 18:20-21

WITH RESPONSIBILITY COMES SACRIFICE

In 2024, my husband and I moved into our 15th home in over 33 years of marriage. Each time God calls Scott to a new place of ministry, we have an adjustment to make. It takes time for my heart to catch up with my head, and sometimes for my head to catch up with my heart. In 2021, when God’s call moved us 300 miles southwest, I heard God remind me to always “stay light on my feet” — to never become so rooted where I am that I am no longer rooted in Him. In that moment, I renewed my commitment to the calling, no matter the weight of responsibility or the pain of sacrifice.

Father God, we pray this morning for our church leaders — for wisdom, strength, and courage. We pray for your blessings upon our pastors and their families. Show us what you are calling us to do to support their ministry and to come alongside them to accomplish great things for your glory and for eternity. May we never pressure our pastors, or make our pastors feel guilty for following your call, even if it means we must end a chapter under their leadership. Help us never to hang on so tightly to the things of this world that we are not willing to go wherever you ask us to go or do whatever you ask us to do. We humbly submit to your will, your way, in your time. Please take this gesture of faith and increase it for the sake of all you are asking us to do. Amen.

O Israel, trust the Lord!
He is your helper and your shield.
O priests, descendants of Aaron, trust the Lord!
He is your helper and your shield.
All you who fear the Lord, trust the Lord!
He is your helper and your shield. – Psalm 115:9-11

Today’s Reading: Numbers 16–17; Psalm 106; Hebrews 9:1-10

“I am giving you the priesthood as your special privilege of service.” – Numbers 18:7b

Just like Miriam, another person thought more of himself than he should. Korah from the tribe of Levi, along with Dathan, Abiram and On, incited a rebellion out of jealousy; they were jealous of Moses’ leadership and jealous of Aaron’s elite position as priest.

They united against Moses and Aaron and said, “You have gone too far! The whole community of Israel has been set apart by the Lord, and he is with all of us. What right do you have to act as though you are greater than the rest of the Lord’s people?” – Numbers 16:3

As a Levite, Korah had been given a special ministry, but it was Aaron and his sons who were made priests. Korah became discontent with what God had blessed him with and coveted the priesthood. But we cannot demand anything from the Lord. A calling is a privilege to receive, not a right to demand nor a position to covet.

DOES YOUR CALLING SEEM INSIGNIFICANT?

“Does it seem insignificant to you that the God of Israel has chosen you from among all the community of Israel to be near him so you can serve in the Lord’s Tabernacle and stand before the people to minister to them? Korah, he had already given this special ministry to you and your fellow Levites. Are you now demanding the priesthood as well?” – Numbers 16:10

Moses told Korah and all of his followers to come the next day with their incense burners filled with incense. They stood with Moses and Aaron at the entrance of the tabernacle. All the Israelites gathered around to watch, as the glorious presence of the Lord appeared. Moses and Aaron fell face down on the ground and pleaded for God’s people. The Lord commanded everyone to step away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

The people in the camp were jealous of Moses
and envious of Aaron, the Lord’s holy priest.
Because of this, the earth opened up;
it swallowed Dathan
and buried Abiram and the other rebels.
Fire fell upon their followers;
a flame consumed the wicked. – Psalm 106:16-18

For their selfishness and pride, these three men received the wrath of God. For the first time ever, the earth opened up and swallowed the tents of these rebellious men, taking all of their families down into the grave alive. The other 250 men who had willfully entered into the rebellion were still standing there with their incense burners, the evidence of their sinfulness in their hands. Fire blazed forth from the Lord and burned up each man (Numbers 16:31-35). The incense burners were gathered and hammered into a thin sheet of bronze to cover the altar as a reminder of what happened to those who demanded a place of ministry without a calling from God.

IS THERE EVIDENCE OF GOD’S CALLING ON YOUR LIFE?

The Lord gave Moses instructions to gather a staff from each leader of Israel’s 12 tribes, with the leader’s name inscribed on the staff. Each staff was placed in the Tabernacle in front of the Ark, and God said sprouts would grow on the staff of the man chosen by God. When Moses went back to the Tabernacle the next day, Aaron’s staff had not only sprouted, it had budded, blossomed, and was producing ripe almonds (Numbers 17:1-8).

When God calls us into leadership, He takes the staff we have been given to lead with and He makes something beautiful grow from our obedience. When we remain humble, recognizing the source of the growth, God can take our leadership beyond our wildest imagination. He can take our calling and make it sprout, blossom and produce fruit.

So do I tend to be more like Korah or Aaron? Do I allow jealousy to creep into my heart or do I find myself allowing the game of comparison to steal my joy? I pray that I humbly accept the leadership of others whom God has called. When it is my turn — when God calls me to do something significant for Him — I pray my humble spirit and faith in Him will allow God to take my life and make something sprout, blossom and produce fruit for His glory!

But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that REACH deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit. – Jeremiah 17:7-8

Praise the Lord!
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Who can list the glorious miracles of the Lord?
Who can ever praise him enough?
There is joy for those who deal justly with others
and always do what is right.
Remember me, Lord, when you show favor to your people;
come near and rescue me.
Let me share in the prosperity of your chosen ones.
Let me rejoice in the joy of your people;
let me praise you with those who are your heritage. – Psalm 106:1-5

Today’s Reading: Numbers 14:20 – 15:41; Psalm 95; Matthew 4:1-11

“Please, Lord, prove that your power is as great as you have claimed. For you said, ‘The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion. But he does not excuse the guilty. He lays the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.’ In keeping with your magnificent, unfailing love, please pardon the sins of THIS people, just as you have forgiven them ever since they left Egypt.” – Numbers 17-19

When the people of Israel lacked the faith to cross into the land that had been promised to them, Moses interceded on their behalf. He asked God to forgive them for falling short once again. God had rescued them from Egypt, allowing them to see His power at work through the plagues as well as the crossing of the Red Sea. They had walked on dry land, received quail and manna from heaven, and been nourished by the water God caused to flow from a rock, yet they lacked the faith to take the final step into all God had promised them.

BACK TO THEIR OLD WAYS

God agreed to forgive His people once more, but there would be consequences this time. They had experienced the presence of a God, who was willing to come down from heaven and dwell among them, yet they refused to listen to His voice. He had given them multiple opportunities to turn their hearts towards Him, yet they had chosen once again to raise their voices against God’s plan. Their rebellion would not go unpunished this time.

Then the Lord said, “I will pardon them as you have requested. But as surely as I live, and as surely as the earth is filled with the Lord’s glory, not one of these people will ever enter that land. They have all seen my glorious presence and the miraculous signs I performed both in Egypt and in the wilderness, but again and again they have tested me by refusing to listen to my voice. They will never even see the land I swore to give their ancestors. None of those who have treated me with contempt will ever see it. But my servant Caleb has a different attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land. Now turn around, and don’t go on toward the land where the Amalekites and Canaanites live. Tomorrow you must set out for the wilderness in the direction of the Red Sea.” – Numbers 14:20-25

BACK TO THE RED SEA

Had they learned nothing from their journey with God? His character had been revealed and His promise to provide and protect had been fulfilled, yet they hardened their hearts once more. Because of their lack of submission, tomorrow would look much different. Instead of stepping into all God had beautifully planned for them, they would turn around and head back to the wilderness. For every day the 12 spies had spent in Canaan, they would spend one year wandering in the wilderness.

God’s people had accused Him of placing their lives in danger by bringing them to the land of giants. They predicted that their children would be carried off by their enemies. But God told them they were about to find out what it was like for God himself to be their enemy. He had led them with a cloud by day and a light by night, but now they would wander aimlessly without His help. And their children would suffer the consequences of their parents’ lack of faith by spending the next 40 years of their lives in the wilderness. But after the 40 years, all who were now 20 years of age or younger would cross into the Promised Land with Caleb and Joshua — the two spies who believed God would give them victory against the giants in their path. These two young men believed that nothing was too difficult for God, and their faith would bring them to a full experience of God’s power.

BACK DOWN THE HILL

When the Israelites heard God was sending them back into the wilderness to die, they changed their minds and decided they would rather enter Canaan, but it was too late. Moses warned them to stay in the camp because the Lord was no longer with them to give them victory over their enemies, but they once again chose defiance over submission. They charged up the hill, only to be chased back down by the Amalekites and Canaanites.

Just like Moses spent 40 days on the mountain,
Just like Jesus spent 40 days in the desert,
Just like the spies spent 40 days in the Promised Land,
Just like the Israelites spent 40 years in the wilderness,
Let’s give God our full attention during these 40 days of Lent.

Father God, we humble our hearts before you this morning and ask that you reveal any areas of our lives where we are pulling back from you. Forgive us for our moments of doubt and for our failure to believe that you will provide for us, if only we will step into all you have planned for us. We ask you to give us the faith to move forward; we ask you to give us the courage to trust in you once again. May we continue to experience your presence on this journey of grace, daily responding to the Spirit’s prompting. We surrender our plans to yours and trust you for all tomorrow holds. Amen.

Come, let us worship and bow down.
Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for he is our God.
We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care.
If only you would listen to his voice today! – Psalm 95:6-7

Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus. – Matthew 4:11

Today’s Reading: Numbers 13–14:19; Psalm 57; Luke 10:1-24

Now the Lord told Moses to send out men into the land of Canaan to explore the land. Twelve men were chosen, one leader from each of the twelve tribes of Israel.

“See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many. What kind of land do they live in? Is it good or bad? What kind of towns do they live in? Are they unwalled or fortified? How is the soil? Is it fertile or poor? Are there trees in it or not? Do your best to bring back some of the fruit of the land.” – Numbers 13:18-20

The men came back and reported what they had found, and they brought back the fruit of the land to show Moses. It took two men to carry a single cluster of grapes. The land was indeed flowing with milk and honey and the fruit was luscious, but the people were powerful and the cities fortified. They celebrated the bounty of the land but also expressed concern about the size of the men in Canaan, calling them “giants”.

THEY CHOSE FEAR INSTEAD OF FAITH.

God was blessing them with a wonderful opportunity — the fulfillment of His promise to them. God had proven to them that He was both their protector and their provider, yet they lacked the faith to step forward in obedience. They knew what God was capable of, yet forgot that no one was greater than their God. Thankfully two of the spies saw the size of their God rather than the size of their enemy.

But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. “Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it!”

But the other men who had explored the land with him disagreed. “We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!” So they spread this bad report about the land among the Israelites: “The land we traveled through and explored will devour anyone who goes to live there. All the people we saw were huge. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers and that’s what they thought, too!” – Numbers 13:30-33

The tone set by these men had an impact on God’s people, who began to weep and protest what they believed to be their future against these giants who stood between them and the promises of God. But Joshua and Caleb spoke up:

“The land we traveled through and explored is a wonderful land! And if the Lord is pleased with us, he will bring us safely into that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. Do not rebel against the Lord, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the Lord is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!” – Numbers 14:7-9

Instead of being strengthened by the confidence of Joshua and Caleb, God’s people started planning how they would stone these two leaders. God was angry with the people for once again living in fear instead of faith. They questioned both the power of God and the faithfulness of God to keep His promise to them. Instead of giving God the battles ahead, they whined and complained against God. They looked back at their old life with a longing to return to the way things used to be (slavery in Egypt) instead of trusting in God for a better future. God was ready to destroy the Hebrews with a plague, but once again Moses intervened and prayed for God to forgive His people.

“Please, Lord, prove that your power is as great as you have claimed. For you said, ‘The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion. But he does not excuse the guilty…In keeping with your magnificent, unfailing love, please pardon the sins of this people…’” – Numbers 14:17-19

We serve a God of compassion who was once again willing to look past the doubt of many to see the faith of a few. God recognized in Caleb a different spirit. He saw that Caleb followed him wholeheartedly. Because of their faith in God, Caleb and Joshua would be the only adults over twenty years old who would enter into the land of Canaan.

WHEN OTHERS CHOSE FEAR, THEY CHOSE FAITH.

So do I tend to be more like Caleb and Joshua, or do I fall into a panic like the other spies? Where am I on my faith journey? Do I have the tendency to back away from difficult situations and tough conversations, or do I respond to the Spirit’s leading regardless of my fear or discomfort? Do I choose to live in fear or in faith? I want to be like Caleb, one who has a different spirit and follows the Lord with all my heart — living in faith and not fear.

In 2018, Hillsong Worship came out with a song that beautifully speaks to this confident faith we can have in God, even in our times of uncertainty or fear. I encourage you this morning to let these words of faith wash over you: Be still and know / That the Lord is in control / Be still my soul / Stand and watch as giants fall / I won’t be afraid if you are here / You silence all my fear / I won’t be afraid / You don’t let go / Be still my heart and know / I won’t be afraid [Be Still, Hillsong Worship]

My heart is confident in you, O God;
my heart is confident.
No wonder I can sing your praises!
Wake up, my heart!
Wake up, O lyre and harp!
I will wake the dawn with my song.
I will thank you, Lord, among all the people.
I will sing your praises among the nations.
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens.
Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. – Psalm 57:7-10

Today’s Reading: Numbers 12, Hebrews 3, Psalm 103

He revealed his character to Moses
and his deeds to the people of Israel.
The Lord is compassionate and merciful,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
He will not constantly accuse us,
nor remain angry forever.
He does not punish us for all our sins;
He does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. — Psalm 103:7-10

CALLED OUT BY GOD

Have you ever been “called out” for your behavior or actions or attitude? That is literally what happened to Miriam in this next passage of scripture — she was called out. Moses was a very humble man, but Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses out of concern that he was getting all the credit. “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?…Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” (Numbers 12:2)

God heard them and called them out of the Tabernacle where they received a good old-fashioned lecture. Miriam had to know she was in trouble the moment she heard God say,

“Come out to the Tent of Meeting, all three of you. Listen carefully to what I’m telling you. If there is a prophet of God among you, I make myself known to him in visions; I speak to him in dreams. But I don’t do it that way with my servant Moses; he has the run of my entire house; I speak to him intimately, in person, in plain talk without riddles: He ponders the very form of God. So why did you show no reverence or respect in speaking against my servant, against Moses?” – Numbers 12:6-8 (The Message)

Jealousy and pride crept into Miriam’s heart and she began thinking more of herself than she thought of the wisdom of God. Not only did she get called out by God, she was placed in a time-out of sorts. Miriam was struck with leprosy and made to spend seven days outside the camp by herself — seven days covered with skin as white as snow, time segregated from her family and friends. She had plenty of time to find the humility she was lacking.

Miriam also had time to consider how her actions were impacting others. While Miriam was in her time-out, the people didn’t move. No progress was made while the Israelites waited for Miriam to learn her lesson. Her bad attitude and jealousy had literally stopped the movement of God’s people. Are there times when our attitude or selfishness is standing in the way of where God is taking His people, His church?

CALLED BY GOD INTO MINISTRY

God made it clear that Moses had “run of the entire house” or as it says in the NLT, “Of all my house, he is the one I trust” (12:7b). The writer of Hebrews also spoke of the faithfulness of Moses and how he was entrusted with God’s entire house (God’s people) because he was a faithful servant. In the same way, Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God’s entire house for he was faithful to the God who appointed him (Hebrews 3:1-6).

And we are God’s house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ. – Hebrews 3:6b

So do I tend to be more like Miriam or Moses? Do I worry about receiving glory and credit, fame or attention? Or do I humble myself before God, only concerned that God receives glory? Like Moses, I want to know God intimately and humbly enter His presence. I want to be called by God, not called out by God. I am so thankful this morning for a God who forgives us, even after our most foolish moments.

For his unfailing love toward those who fear him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
For he knows how weak we are;
he remembers we are only dust.
Our days on earth are like grass;
like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
The wind blows, and we are gone—
as though we had never been here.
But the love of the Lord remains forever
with those who fear him. – Psalm 103:11-17

Lord, forgive me for the moments when I have let pride affect my joy for others. Please forgive me for my arrogance; cleanse me of the confidence that prevents me from humbly celebrating what you are doing in the lives of others. I want to be a sincere follower of Christ in whom you can trust to respond with obedience and gratitude in all situations. Thank you for your unfailing love and mercy when I get in my own way of fully submitting to your way, your will, in your perfect time. I am grateful for your tender compassion towards the wayward and your faithfulness to forgive the repentant. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Numbers 11; Psalm 131; Ephesians 3:14-21

Lord, my heart is not proud; my eyes are not haughty. I don’t concern myself with matters too great or too awesome for me to grasp. Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk. Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me. O Israel, put your hope in the Lord — now and always. – Psalm 131

The nation of Israel went through a time of responding to all the Lord commanded them to do through Moses. They were growing in numbers and God’s blessings were evident, but it did not take long for the people to begin to whine and complain.

NO LONGER ENOUGH

The people of Israel (all 603,550 of them plus women and children) were still wandering in the wilderness and had not yet arrived to the land God had promised. Eventually the Israelites became tired of this way of life — wandering from place to place, daily picking up and moving on. They were tired of the manna God had provided for them to eat, and they began to whine and complain. Manna was no longer enough for them; now they wanted meat. Moses became aggravated with the people and began to feel sorry for himself, taking out his frustrations on God.

And Moses said to the Lord, “Why are you treating me, your servant, so harshly? Have mercy on me! What did I do to deserve the burden of all these people? Did I give birth to them? Did I bring them into the world? Why did you tell me to carry them in my arms like a mother carries a nursing baby? How can I carry them to the land you swore to give their ancestors? Where am I supposed to get meat for all these people? They keep whining to me, saying, ‘Give us meat to eat!’ I can’t carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy! If this is how you intend to treat me, just go ahead and kill me. Do me a favor and spare me this misery!” – Numbers 11:11-15

“Don’t make me come down there.” This was a common sentence at my house as I was growing up, and in this passage we hear God giving the same sort of fatherly warning. He said He would come down and the Israelites would get what they wanted. Oh boy, would they get it!

DISSATISFIED AND BORED

Moses responded — Where am I supposed to get enough meat to feed all these people?!! Oh Moses, I wish I could not relate to your faithless behavior. I know I serve a God who provides generously, yet I find myself asking how I am supposed to do what God is calling me to do. I can also sadly relate to the people who have been blessed by God but have become dissatisfied and bored, ready for God to bless in a new and different way. Oh, what a patient God we serve! Oh, how we must frustrate Him!

Numbers 11:23a:
God answered Moses, “So, do you think I can’t take care of you?” (The Message)
“Has my arm lost its power?” (NLT)
“Is the Lord’s arm too short?” (NIV)

Over and over again Moses had witnessed both the Lord’s provision and the Lord’s anger at the complaints and selfishness of the people, yet here he is — the one lacking the faith to believe that God could do what He said He would do. I would love to sit here in judgment of Moses and shake my head in unbelief but the truth is that I am no better than him. I hear the Lord asking me, “Is the Lord’s arm too short? So, do you think I can’t take care of you? Has my arm lost its power?”

GOD IS MORE THAN ENOUGH

He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. — 2 Corinthians 9:10

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. – Ephesians 3:20-21

Over and over again we witness God’s provision. My prayer for us today is that we know with confidence that God can take care of us, that His arm is not too short. I pray that we remain in a state of obedience without questioning God or praying for more than what God is giving us. I pray that God does something within each one of our hearts today, causing us to only desire what He desires for us and to be content with what He has for us. Lord, may these things be true in our lives today. Amen.

“The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24