Tuesday, March 12

Numbers 20:1-13

This passage starts with a basic need unmet; the need for water. People who have done a 30-hour famine are familiar with going without food, but we know it's dangerous to go without water and fluids. So understandably the Israelites are walking aimlessly through the desert without water and they get feisty. They wish death upon themselves and begin to oppose and question Moses and Aaron.

In response, the two guides come to the Lord's presence and God instructs Moses to "Speak" so that water comes about "before their eyes" (v. 8, NIV). Moses turns to the people speaking in spite of them and strikes the rock. Yes, water still comes forth but the spirit in which Moses followed the Lord's instructions was not as God intended. Instead of responding to the outcry in humility and obedience, Moses responds crudely.

• In what ways am I the Israelites; complaining, angry, and bringing negativity into my daily situations?

• In what ways am I Moses; letting my mood affect the way I exemplify Christ to others?

• In what ways can I make sure my physiological needs are taken care of so that I may better serve those around me through exemplifying Christ?

Aubrey Shaffer