What lessons can we learn about obedience from Numbers 31:15? Setting the Scene: Why Moses Asked, “Have You Spared All the Women?” • After Israel’s victory over Midian, the soldiers returned with plunder and captives. • God had given explicit instructions: “execute the LORD’s vengeance on Midian” (Numbers 31:3) and “kill all the males” (v. 7). • Moses’ piercing question in v. 15 exposes that the command had been only partly followed. His indignation highlights how seriously God views full obedience. Key Observations from Numbers 31:15 • “Have you spared all the women?” — seven words that reveal partial obedience. • The soldiers evidently thought they could adjust God’s directive to their own reasoning. • Moses, as a faithful leader, immediately confronts the compromise instead of excusing it. What Obedience Looks Like • Wholehearted: Not selective compliance but a complete following of God’s word (Deuteronomy 26:16). • Prompt: The army delayed finishing the task until confronted; true obedience acts without hesitation (Psalm 119:60). • Reverent: Recognizes that God’s commands are rooted in His holiness and justice, even when they seem severe to human sensibilities. Consequences of Partial Obedience • It hurts others — the very women spared had led Israel into idolatry (v. 16). • It displeases God — Moses’ anger mirrors God’s own displeasure (cf. 1 Samuel 15:10-23, Saul sparing King Agag). • It invites judgment — incomplete obedience never escapes divine notice (James 4:17). Lessons for Our Walk Today • God’s Word is not negotiable. We are called to obey the entirety of Scripture, not just the parts we find comfortable (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Delayed or diluted obedience equals disobedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Spiritual leaders must lovingly but firmly call out compromise, following Moses’ example (Hebrews 13:17). • Obedience flows from trust. When we believe God’s wisdom is perfect, we resist the urge to “improve” His commands (Proverbs 3:5-6). Putting It into Practice • Examine any area where God’s instructions have been partially followed; confess and complete the obedience. • Cultivate a heart that responds quickly and fully to Scripture, however challenging the directive. • Encourage one another toward full obedience, remembering that God honors those who honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30). |
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