Numbers 12:1-16

Miriam’s and Aaron’s Complaints

Moses marrying  a  Cushite  woman was  not  the  real  reason  for  Miriam’s  complaint. Miriam was jealous of Moses’ position and authority. Miriam’s complaint against Moses had consequences.

Complaining results when we forget God’s promises.

The only thing to do with a complaint is to carry it to God in prayer. Miriam’s complaint was hurtful to Moses. He did not volunteer, lobby or campaign for the task. God appointed him to the task. Miriam and Aaron have rejected Moses’ authority and in the process, they rejected God’s authority.

Complaining results when we reject God’s authority.

Miriam and Aaron were saying they knew better than God. And what was Moses’ response? He did not respond. (Numbers 12:3 (Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.))

Silence in the face of accusations is a genuine mark of greatness.

Silence in the face of accusations is a true mark of a true believer.

Moses did not need to defend himself. He was secure in who he was. God had appointed him to the task. How quick am I to defend myself when attacked? Am I as quick to defend God? Moses  was  always  quick  to  defend  God’s  honor  but  silent  when  he  himself  was accused. God defends Moses. God sends judgment on Miriam in the form of leprosy. The leprosy was a visual sign of sin. It is sin that makes a person spiritually unclean.

The two chapters in Numbers are as contemporary today as they were in Moses’ time. And we are still complaining. Complaining is Sin, Rebellion against God, Displeases God, Shows a lack of faith in God.

Lord, please help me to submit to Your authority and remember not to complain, but give thanks to You in everything.

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