Numbers 11: No Thanks
"WHAT HAVE YOU done for me lately?" It's just human nature. We quickly take for granted what we have, and wish we had more. In this chapter, God's people begin to grumble, forgetting the many blessings and miracles they've experienced on the journey.
Warming Up to God
Some things we take completely for granted; it takes losing them to fully appreciate them. When have you had this experience? Thank God for three good things in your life you would normally ignore.
Read Numbers 11. »
Discovering the Word
- What do you learn about the Israelites from these verses?
- Considering God's method for feeding the people, why do you think he is particularly angered by their response (vv. 4-10)?
- Moses himself complains to God (vv. 11-15). Why do you think God takes his complaint seriously?
- If Moses were a discontented person, how might he have reacted differently to the events in verses 24-28?
- What lesson does God teach the people through granting their request (vv. 18-20, 31-35)?
Applying the Word
- How should God's statement in verse 23 influence your tendency to complain?
- With what area of your life do you most often feel dissatisfaction?
- What can you do to keep God's blessings before you in such a way that you will be more grateful?
Responding in Prayer
Spend time in prayer exclusively thanking God for all he has provided—even those things that are hard to appreciate. Then, follow Moses' example in presenting your frustrations honestly as you seek his guidance.
For Further Study
Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture Edited by Joseph T. Lienhard