Chronological reading Plan for Feb 28, Num 11-13

Today's readings are Num 11-13. Tomorrow's are Num 14-15 and Psalm 90.

In Num 11, God's people are, once again, complaining. Moses laments over this, asking God to just kill him. God, instead, gives Moses Elders to help him with the work of the ministry. God does not remove His people from ministry becasue it is too difficult. He will enable them to do what He calls them to do. 

As for the people, they learn a lesson in being careful about complaining (Num 11:31-35). It seems that the people struggle with being happy with the blessings they've received and constantly wind up wanting more than what God is giving them.

Miriam and Aaron learn similar lessons about complaining about the leader God has given them in Num 12. As a result of her complaining and her disrespect of Moses, Miriam is stricken with leprosy. God graciously provides for her, healing once again demonstrating His love for His children in spite of their lack of faithfulness and gratitude. It should be noted that God's love does not preclude consequences for ungodly actions. While the price Miriam pays is not eternal, the whole incident is very painful and trying for her.

In Num 13, Moses sends spies into Canaan. They return with reports about the land being everything God promised it to be. But, the spies are intimidated by the people occupying the land. Ignoring  the promises of God and the fact that God had prepared them for battle, they insist that Israel will be unable to take the land.

​This will be interesting. What happens when God's people evaluate His promises in light of their circumstances rather than His faithfulness?