Thirstiness and the water from the rock
Num. 20:1-13
The Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness for a long time. By the time they reached the desert of Zin, they have seen the innumerable miracles, wrath and powers of God. They saw with their own eyes the miracles in Egypt, in the Red Sea, and in the wilderness. They have seen the presence of the LORD in the clouds and in the fire. They got what they wanted – water, meat and safety. They have also seen the LORD’s anger and His guidance.
But even after they saw all these things, as they entered the desert of Zin, they became thirsty and they began grumbling against Moses, saying, “Would that we had died when our kindred died before the Lord! Why have you brought the assembly of the Lord into this wilderness for us and our livestock to die here? Why have you brought us up out of Egypt, to bring us to this wretched place? It is no place for grain, or figs, or vines, or pomegranates; and there is no water to drink” (Num. 20:3-5).
Angered, Moses turned to the LORD who gave him directions as to what he should do. And as Moses struck the rock, he said, “Listen you rebels, shall we bring watr for you out of this rock?” (Num. 20:10) and struck the rock twice and water came out.
But the LORD was displeased with Moses and Aaron and said to them, “Because you did not trust in me, to show my holiness before the eyes of the Israelites, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them” (Num. 20:12).
Do you also see the many similarities between Christians today and the Israelites of those times as you read this story?
Although the Israelites saw all the miracles of the LORD, they never trusted in Him. Rather, they grumbled and displeased Him all the time.
Christians today have become just like these Israelites. We have seen so much. We have seen all the powers and guidance of the LORD from the Bible and from our own experiences. But we tend to falter and stumble as we move.
Let us therefore remember to always trust the LORD to provide us with all our needs even when we are facing all kinds of difficulties because He is always there to help. Let us also refrain from grumbling and displeasing the LORD.
If not, we are in danger of undermining not only ourselves but also our leaders.
