How does Numbers 20:5 reflect Israel's lack of trust in God's provision? Framing Numbers 20:5 within Israel’s Story - Israel is camped at Kadesh, the edge of the Promised Land (Numbers 20:1). - Miriam has just died; the people face a new water shortage (20:2). - Instead of seeking the Lord, the nation confronts Moses and Aaron with accusations (20:3-5). Words That Expose the Heart “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt into this wilderness, where there is neither grain nor figs nor vines nor pomegranates? And there is no water to drink!” (Numbers 20:5) - “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt…” • They imply Egypt was preferable, forgetting centuries of slavery (Exodus 1:11-14). - “into this wilderness…” • They view their location only through immediate discomfort, not through God’s purpose (Exodus 13:17-18). - “no grain… figs… vines… pomegranates…” • They recite the very fruits God promised to supply in Canaan (Deuteronomy 8:7-8) yet doubt He can get them there. - “no water to drink!” • God had already provided water from a rock at Rephidim (Exodus 17:6). Their complaint ignores that miracle. Recurring Pattern of Distrust - Exodus 16:2-3 – murmured over food; God sent manna. - Exodus 17:2-3 – murmured over water; God brought water. - Numbers 11:4-6 – mourned the “cucumbers” of Egypt; God sent quail. - Numbers 14:1-4 – feared giants; refused to enter Canaan. Numbers 20:5 echoes each episode, showing a settled habit of disbelief. Forgetting God’s Proven Provision - Red Sea deliverance (Exodus 14:21-22) - Daily manna (Exodus 16:35) - Pillar of cloud and fire (Exodus 13:21-22) - Protection from enemies (Numbers 21:1-3) Israel had ample evidence of God’s care, yet chose to interpret present lack as permanent abandonment. Questioning God’s Character - By blaming Moses, they indirectly accuse the LORD who led Moses (Exodus 3:10-12). - They equate wilderness hardship with divine failure, contradicting God’s unchanging faithfulness (Numbers 23:19). Consequences That Follow - Israel’s accusation stirs Moses’ frustration, leading him to strike the rock in disobedience (Numbers 20:10-12). - God still graciously gives water (20:11), proving His commitment despite their unbelief. Lessons in Trust for Believers Today - Present need never cancels past evidence of God’s care (Psalm 103:2). - Complaints magnify circumstances; gratitude magnifies God (1 Thessalonians 5:18). - Remembering God’s works fuels faith for present trials (Psalm 77:11-12). |
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