Even Moses Stumbles

     We learn a little about God. When the going was hardest, Israelites didn't trust and obey. Gentiles under those circumstances would do likewise. It's the world. People are people.

     Only two leaders entered Canaan: Caleb, who had "a different spirit," and Joshua. Other leaders were struck down and died of a plague before the Lord. 

     The Lord said to the adults, As for your children ... I will bring them in to enjoy the land you have rejected. [Meanwhile] Your children will be shepherds for 40 years, suffering for your unfaithfulness, until the last of your bodies lies in the desert. I the Lord have spoken. - Numbers 14. 

     Some thought, okay, we'll go. Moses warned them, the Lord is not with you.

     They went up to the high hill country, and met the Amalekites and Canaanites who attacked them and beat them down. 

     Two more miracles on the exodus deserve a look. 

     At Meribah, the Lord told Moses to take his staff and speak to that rock and it will pour out its water. 

     Moses spoke to the assembly, 'Listen you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?' Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out.   

     The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, Because you did not trust me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them. - Numbers chapter 20

     Finally, near Edom, the people again griped. Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in this desert? There is no water. And we detest this miserable food. 

     The Lord sent venomous snakes among them. Many Israelites died. The Lord said to Moses, Make a (bronze) snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live. This was a sign of future, great importance. (John 3:14-15) 

Tomorrow: Timeout. Were You There?