Numbers 12

Devotional:
And the Lord said to them, “Now listen to what I say: “If there were prophets among you, I, the Lord, would reveal myself in visions. I would speak to them in dreams. But not with my servant Moses. Of all my house, he is the one I trust. I speak to him face to face, clearly, and not in riddles! He sees the Lord as he is. So why were you not afraid to criticize my servant Moses?” (Numbers 12:6-8)

Miriam and Aaron speak ill of Moses, presumably because of the woman he had married (vs. 1), but it is soon revealed in their words that jealousy is the cause of their displeasure. They were jealous that God elevated Moses above them. Why were they not seen as important as Moses? Why weren’t they chosen to lead the people? God called them all to a meeting and rebuked Miriam and Aaron for their words, giving Miriam leprosy (vs. 10). They then pleaded for healing from Moses and confessed their sin (vs. 12-13). God chooses whom He works through and speaks through. Who are we to question His decisions or judge their actions? Do you sometimes question why God puts certain people in positions of influence or authority over you? Know that those decisions belong to the Lord, and remember God’s reaction to those who criticize His choices.

Pray it:
Father, guard my heart from being jealous of the gifts and callings you give to others. Help me to give you thanks and praise for your good gifts to me and help me to receive and be blessed through the ministries to which you call others. Amen.

Share it:
Who is someone you can share a verse or thought from this passage with?