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Numbers 14:5-10 – Arguing Against The People

Moses and Aaron bravely overlook the insult done them, and prove to be faithful friends to those who are outrageous enemies to them. They fall down as men astonished and even thunder-struck, amazed to see a people throw away their own mercies. Earnestly they beseech the people to stop rebelling and to be reconciled to God. Those that are true friends to others will stoop to anything for their salvation.

Caleb and Joshua do their part: they tear their clothes in holy indignation at the sin of the people, and a holy dread of the wrath of God, which they see ready to break out against them. They assure them of the goodness of the land they have surveyed, and that it is really worth having. If we are thoroughly convinced of the desirableness of our faith, we won’t be put off by the struggle that goes with it. Caleb and Joshua show that, whatever is suggested to the contrary, the advantage is clearly on Israel’s side. God has abandoned the Canaanites and will not be a protection to them. Even though the children of Israel live in tents, the Lord is with them, and they have nothing to fear. When we have the presence of God with us, we need not fear the most powerful force against us. Joshua and Caleb show the people that the greatest danger they are in is from their own grumbling, and they will succeed against all their enemies if they do not make God their enemy. But the people are deaf to this reasoning – it only exasperates them. It is common for those whose hearts are set to do evil to rage at those who give them good advice. Caleb and Joshua know they stand for God and His glory, and even the murderous wrath of the people does not shake them. Those who faithfully show themselves on God’s side are sure to be taken under His special protection.

Questions

  1. How do Moses and Aaron react?
  2. What do Joshua and Caleb tell the people?

Prayer Points

  1. Pray that you would have the courage to stand on the Lord’s side.
  2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
  3. Pray for family matters.