March 24, 2022 - Numbers 11-13

I have noticed that when good things are happening, it appears that many more positive things occur collectively. Good news seems to bring smiles and praise leads to a better quality of work. The opposite is often true as well. When discouragement and complaining begins in a group, suddenly the attitudes and perspectives of people change accordingly.

The people of Israel had been blessed and had undeniably seen the power and majesty of God revealed in their midst. Repeatedly, God had manifested Himself and the people were clearly cognizant of His presence as the cloud led them away from Mount Sinai. So much optimism was present that the promises of God transpired quickly for the people of God.

Then the murmuring and complaining began and the attitude and viewpoints of the people suddenly changed. A craving for unattainable delicacies arose that created a negative attitude toward the leadership and God. The food that the people had once enjoyed in Egypt became a stumbling block and caused the people to question both Moses and God's good intentions.

This, in turn, changed Moses' attitude and suddenly all the enthusiasm and expectations of the people changed. Grumbling began with the people, extended to the leadership and families. Unlike the bright cloud that had begun to lead them, a dark cloud of complaining and discontentment had spread through the people of Israel. Consequently, God punished and reprimanded the people severely.

What had been a joyous anticipatory nation of people, quickly evaporated into a discouraged mob of individuals who had forgotten the bigger picture they had first envisioned when unified. This is evident as the nation of Israel approached Kadesh and sent out spies in chapter 13.

Complaining and negative attitudes have a chilling effect on us today as well. Proverbs informs us, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses' knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good" (Proverbs 15:1 - 3, Emphasis Mine). May this be a reminder that we are to be careful of our attitudes and words as they affect all those around us, more than we realize.

I encourage you to memorize Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer."

With an Expectant Hope,

Pastor Miller