A Word from Numbers 20

Have you ever wanted to be known as somebody who prays with power, or knows the Bible well, or serves eagerly? And if you are recognized for any of those things, who gets the glory? God or you?

Now, I ask this because today’s word from Numbers 20 highlights the danger of pride, even when we’re being obedient. Moses and the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness, and they came to a desert where there wasn’t any water. Naturally, the people complained, as they often did. And so, Moses and Aaron went to tabernacle to ask God what to do. And being the compassionate Father that He is, the Lord said to Moses, “Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes, and it will pour out its water.” (vs. 7-8)

Well, Moses and Aaron gathered the people in front of the rock God had mentioned. And Moses said, “Listen, you rebels! Must we bring you water out of this rock?” And then, Moses raised his arm and hit the rock twice with his staff. And water gushed out, so the community and its animals could drink. (vs. 10-11)

Later, the Lord said to Moses, “Because you didn’t trust me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you won’t bring this community into the land I give them.” (v. 12) Of course, that probably seems harsh to us. And yet, Moses spoke condemnation that God didn’t command. He called attention to himself rather than God. And he struck the rock twice, as though he was the one whose power was providing water. And God wasn’t trying to create a people who trusted Moses. No, was creating a people who trusted Him.

Years later, John the Baptist had a chance to draw attention to himself. But instead, he said of Jesus, “He must increase, and I must decrease.” (John 3:30) So, who’s going to get the glory in our lives today? May all that we do point others the Lord. Amen.