Reading
SAA Notes
The Arabah is the same place that Jesus went to be tempted by the Devil. Moses recounts the history of Israel, which reveals their rebellious heart. It was from here that Joshua (Hebrew for Jesus) went forth to lead the people into the Promised Land. Jesus, like His namesake, goes forth from this same place to begin His ministry.
SJA Notes
* God Above, You are great, You O Lord are above all gods. Whatever You please You do, here on earth and in heaven above. Your Name endures forever, throughout all ages.
“How can I bear by myself the weight and burden of you and your strife?”
Moses doesn’t mince words.
The folly and unbelief of Israel are laid out clear here, with a focus on the initial foray into the promised land by the twelve tribes (and what happened after).
Israel chose to seek the confirmation of man rather than trust in God.
Israel chose to react badly to the report of the spies, rejecting God’s purpose.
“Even with me the LORD was angry on your account and said, ‘You also shall not go in here.'”
Moses lays it out. ON YOUR ACCOUNT.
This is not so much shifting the blame from himself than wanting the people to understand the gravity and seriousness with which they should approach the God that they are accountable to. Their disobedience and stubborn hearts angered Moses, who then sinners in striking the rock (not glorifying the Lord).
As with Israel, so with us.
Sometimes it is easy to focus only on the individual at the end of a chain of disobedience.
However, we are not excused from our behaviour just because we might be able to cover it with someone else’s sin.
Jesus puts it to us very clearly in John 14,
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
Let us be encouraged to walk in obedience and continue in heartfelt repentance each day we walk this road.
* Father God,
Please Lord, we are sinners saved only by Your grace – through the gift of faith that You have given.
We love You Lord – Please help us to do what You tell us to.
Please write Your word upon our hearts that we might not sin against You.
Amen.