Numbers 14:20-35 – Prayer and Judgement
We see here the power of prayer, and the delight God takes in honouring it. Here is a whole nation rescued from ruin by the effectual, fervent prayer of one righteous man. Moses in his prayer has shown a great concern for the glory of God. And now all the world shall see how God hates sin even in His own people, and will deal with it, and yet how gracious and merciful He is, and how slow to anger. These people tempt God—tempt His power, whether He can help them—His goodness, whether He will help them—and His faithfulness, whether He will keep His promise. They tempt His justice, whether He will resent what they say and punish them. They dare Him, and in effect challenge Him, to do good, or do evil. They complain against Him. As they question what He will do, they quarrel with Him for everything He has done, continually finding fault. They do this after they have seen God’s miracles in Egypt and in the wilderness.
God passes sentence upon them. When we don’t believe God’s promises, we’re forced to give them up. They wished that they might die in the wilderness, and God takes them at their word. The wilderness will help to humble them and test them, and show them what is in their heart. But there is mercy mixed with this severe sentence. Mercy to Caleb and Joshua, that they will survive the years of banishment, and live to enter Canaan. Caleb is described as a man who follows the Lord fully. It should be our desire to follow the Lord fully and faithfully without arguing or grumbling. The heavenly Canaan shall be the everlasting inheritance of those that follow the Lord fully. There is mercy as well to the children of the Israelites. God will keep His promise to Abraham and not utterly take away His loving kindness.
Questions
- How will God punish the Israelites?
- How will He bless Caleb and Joshua?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the salvation of family and friends.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.