How should we respond to unjust criticism, following Moses' example in Numbers 16:15? Setting the Scene Numbers 16 records Korah’s rebellion, a public challenge to Moses’ leadership. False charges fly: Moses is accused of self-exaltation and exploiting the people. Verse 15 captures his reaction to the slander. The Text “Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD, ‘Do not regard their offering! I have not taken a single donkey from them, nor have I harmed a single one of them.’” (Numbers 16:15) What Moses Faced • Open, hostile criticism in the hearing of the whole congregation • Allegations attacking his motives and integrity • Pressure to defend himself before an audience already stirred up Moses’ Four-Part Response 1. He felt righteous anger • “Became very angry” shows emotional honesty—he did not pretend the injustice was no big deal (cf. Mark 3:5). 2. He took the matter directly to God • “Said to the LORD” reminds us the primary courtroom is heaven, not the court of public opinion (Psalm 37:5-6). 3. He asked God to judge righteously • “Do not regard their offering!” He appealed for divine discernment, not personal revenge (Psalm 109:26-31). 4. He stated the truth briefly and clearly • “I have not taken a single donkey… nor have I harmed a single one of them.” No character assassination, no lengthy self-defense—just facts (1 Samuel 12:3-5). Principles for Us Today • Acknowledge the sting but guard the heart – “Be angry, yet do not sin” (Ephesians 4:26). Righteous anger is permitted; bitterness is not. • Bring every accusation to the Lord first – “Cast your burden on the LORD and He will sustain you” (Psalm 55:22). • Let God vindicate in His timing – “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate… but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). • Speak truth without malice – “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37). A concise, factual response often suffices. • Refuse personal retaliation – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21). • Keep serving faithfully – Moses went on leading Israel despite the insults; likewise, “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). Key Takeaways • Unjust criticism is inevitable; righteous anger must be channeled toward God, not toward revenge. • Prayerful appeal to the Lord precedes any public response. • A brief statement of truth, free of venom, both honors God and quiets conscience. • We trust God’s verdict, continue our assignment, and allow His justice to shine in due course. |
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