InstaStudy

The Waters of Meribah: A Lesson in Faith and Obedience

This study explores the events at Meribah, where the Israelites again complained for water, and Moses' actions led to significant consequences. We will examine the people's persistent unbelief, the Lord's instructions, Moses' disobedience, and the profound lessons about honoring the Most High.

1. The People's Persistent Unbelief

1.1 The Recurrence of Complaint

Verses: Numbers 20:2-5
  • Despite past miraculous provisions, the assembly quickly resorted to murmuring.
  • Their complaints revealed a lack of trust in the Lord's ability to sustain them.
  • Such discontent often overlooks the Lord's past faithfulness.

1.2 The Lord's Gracious Response

Verses: Numbers 20:6-8
  • Even in the face of rebellion, the Lord's mercy was extended.
  • The Lord's instruction to Moses was a clear path to provision, demonstrating His singular power.
  • His desire was to provide for His people, despite their unworthiness.

2. Moses' Disobedience and Its Consequences

2.1 The Lord's Specific Command

Verses: Numbers 20:7-8
  • The Lord commanded Moses to speak to the rock, not strike it.
  • This instruction emphasized the power of the divine word.
  • Obedience to the exact command of the Most High is paramount.

2.2 Moses' Actions and Attitude

Verses: Numbers 20:10-11
  • Moses' anger and frustration led him to speak harshly to the people.
  • Striking the rock twice, rather than speaking, was a deviation from the Lord's command.
  • His actions suggested a reliance on human effort or a display of personal authority, rather than solely on the Lord's power.

2.3 The Lord's Judgment

Verses: Numbers 20:12
  • The Lord rebuked Moses and Aaron for not sanctifying Him before the people.
  • Their failure to obey diminished the Lord's holiness in the eyes of Israel.
  • Disobedience, especially from leaders, carries significant consequences, impacting their divine calling.

3. Sanctifying the Lord in All Things

3.1 What it Means to Sanctify the Lord

Verses: Numbers 20:12
  • Sanctifying the Lord means to set Him apart as holy, unique, and supreme.
  • It involves representing His character and power accurately and reverently.
  • Our actions and words must always point to His singular authority and glory.

3.2 The Rock as a Spiritual Source

Verses: Numbers 20:8; Numbers 20:11
  • The rock provided life-sustaining water, symbolizing the Lord as the ultimate source of spiritual life.
  • The Lord's power is sufficient to provide for all needs, even from seemingly barren sources.
  • Access to this spiritual provision comes through faith and obedience to His word.