But the people grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!” Numbers 21:4-5
The Israelites are a microcosm of your life today. They became impatient and complained to the Lord. They spoke disparaging words about their journey with God, the lack of a homeland, and the absence of water and food.
They were unable to accept the provisions of God because they did not meet their expectations. The lesson to learn is to accept your life as it is today. It is God’s perfect plan.
God became very angry with the Israelites and sent poisonous snakes among the people. Many died and the Israelites realized they had sinned against God and repented.
The reality is sin manifested in the form of anger or bitterness will bring troubles into your life. God will get your attention and cause you to repent from your words and actions. How can you and I rebel against the Creator of the heavens and earth?
The unrest with God usually begins with impatience. You get tired of waiting for God and complain and turn bitter towards the lack of sustenance in your life. You fall into unbelief.
The Israelites asked Moses to pray to God for relief from the snakes. So when the afflictions from God fall upon you pray for patience, renewed faith, and help from God to overcome your troubles. Nothing is impossible with God!
God told Moses to make a staff with a bronze snake mounted on the top. Moses complied with God and anyone bitten by a snake who looked at the staff lived. How great is our God!
You and I have to accept God on His terms and live with thanksgiving in our hearts regardless of how dire or hopeless life might seem to you.
God is merciful and forgiving. He is a God of eternal life and His purposes are perfect!
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life!
Hal Hollister Ministry 