READ DEUTERONOMY 34
GO DEEPER
Moses was unmatched in his abilities, performing miraculous signs and wonders as instructed by the Lord that no one else could replicate. His mighty displays of power and remarkable deeds in front of all of Israel have been unparalleled.
However, he was unable to enter the promised land as a result of his failure to precisely adhere to God's instructions. In Numbers 20, the Israelites grumbled to Moses and Aaron about the lack of water. God instructed Moses to call forth water from a rock before the Israelites, but Moses chose to strike the rock with his staff instead. Due to this act of disobedience, God informed Moses that he would not be permitted to accompany his people into the promised land. It should be noted that in Exodus 17, it is documented that God had previously commanded Moses to strike a rock for water when the people were thirsty, thereby Moses was following God's directive from a prior occasion.
The severity of the punishment appears excessive in light of Moses' accomplishments and the praise he received in his final days. Therefore, why was God so displeased with Moses's mistake? The explanation can be discovered in the retelling of the incident in Numbers 20.
While atop the mountain, Moses was instructed by God to gather the people and instruct the rock to release water in front of them using only his words. But Moses gathered the Israelites and, along with Aaron, asked them if they could bring water from the rock before striking it twice. Moses made it about himself by suggesting they bring forth the water instead of relying on God. In Exodus, Moses directed the people toward God, but in Numbers, he attempted to take control of the situation himself.
Despite the discipline given to Moses, we witness the overflowing love and mercy of God. Numbers 20:11 demonstrates that despite Moses striking the rock in disobedience, abundant water flowed for the congregation to drink. This demonstrates God's love in fulfilling the needs of His people despite Moses's actions. Furthermore, despite Moses's disobedience, God's love for him was apparent through forgiveness and the preservation of his legacy as the only prophet to be personally known by the Lord (face-to-face), as mentioned in the final verses of Deuteronomy 34.
Today's reading illustrates that our defiance cannot obstruct God's intentions, even when we confront the consequences of our decisions. He will consistently offer support. Furthermore, it illustrates that God's affection for us remains unwavering despite our transgressions. He will always grant us forgiveness and seek to establish a personal relationship with us for all eternity.
QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever experienced a situation where you didn't follow God's instructions exactly as He intended?
2. Consider the incredible grace of God in not letting our mistakes impact His love or care for us.
3. Do you have any actions to take today based on this reading? If yes, share it with someone and seek their support in holding you responsible for fulfilling that prompting.