January 29, 2022 - Numbers 11-12

Chapter 11 ended with Moses affirming, “The Lord has promised good to Israel.” Furthermore, as the people set out, “the ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them . . . to seek out a resting place for them,” and their enemies were scattered and fled before them. How good and faithful God was to his people, even without mentioning all else God had done for Israel! The people’s response? They “complained in the hearing of the Lord about their misfortunes, and when the Lord heard it, his anger was kindled” (11:1). Rightly so!

The people cried out, “Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic” (11:4-5). Yes, but had they forgotten the hard labor? Had they forgotten the restrictions, even regarding where they could live? Had they forgotten that Pharaoh was killing their babies? Shee-ee-ee-sh! And, then, there’s Moses complaining, “I am not able to carry all this people alone; the burden is too heavy for me . . . kill me” (11:14-15). Oh, we can’t forget Aaron and Miriam’s jealousy of Moses (chapter 12). Ever know anyone who was always complaining, seemingly never content? Certainly, such words should never describe those of us who have been so wonderfully blessed in Christ. How about these verses to meditate on throughout the day?

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

“Godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content” (1 Timothy 6:6-8).

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).

I am happy, O so happy

At God’s side,

I am walking in His presence,

Satisfied.

Hallelujah, hallelujah,

I am walking in His presence,

Satisfied. –William J. Kirkpatrick (1899)