Obedience in the Wild: “But I was provoked!…”

…but God still whispers… obey, my child.

Moses was provoked on several occasions in the wilderness, but the deal-breaker for him and Aaron was at Meribah in the Wilderness of Zin (Numbers 20:1-13). The people begin complaining for the lack of water and start criticizing Moses’ and Aaron’s leadership- suggesting that they would be better off dead or back in Egypt. Per usual, Moses and Aaron cry out to God for help, and He gives them clear instruction in regards to getting the people water. God tells them

1. Get the staff.

2. Assemble the people.

3. Speak to the rock.

Moses and Aaron did two of three. Instead of speaking to the rock, Moses struck it twice. He disobeyed (and dishonored) God in front of the people. Honestly, I’m not sure what Moses’ thought process was in this moment. Was he frustrated with the people? Was he tired? Was he provoked  to anger? Whatever the case may be, he was responsible for his own obedience- or lack there of. And unfortunately, it costs him and Aaron the Promised Land. Joshua would, instead, lead the children of Israel into the land.  Aaron actually dies at the end of this chapter too.

Long story short: Obey God (period). No matter what it looks like or how you feel about it. And whether you’re in the wilderness or not, obedience is important to God for you and those around you. Samuel teaches me that obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Sam. 15:22). And this something I’m still striving to get right. Personally, I’ve come a long way, but when I feel really provoked, I (ashamedly) sometimes give way to my anger. Which is disobedient to God’s word…

“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man holds it in check.”
(Proverbs 29:11)

“Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger and don’t give the Devil an opportunity.” (Ephesians 4:26-27) 

I may say something out of pocket, or exchange unkind words to my neighbor. And in the end, I always pay for it. Again, I’ve gotten better as I’ve grown in the word and in prayer, but everyday is a fight. If you can relate to anything that I’ve said, pray with me in these next few moments…

“God I thank you that you know the frame of man!! You know that we are mere flesh. Now Lord, I pray for a heightened sense of your presence when I feel provoked. Lord arrest me in the moment so my words and actions don’t disobey or dishonor you. Lord give me a heart of patience and grace under fire. God, I beg of you to not let me make the same mistake as Moses and Aaron made, lest  I disqualify myself from your promise. Help me in those “heat of the moment” situations to not give way to the sin of my flesh. Let my words and deeds reflect your words and instruction, always. Lord, be the watch over my mouth and doorkeeper of my lips (Ps. 141:3). In Jesus’ name I pray…”

Numbers 20:1-13
1 Samuel 15:22
Proverbs 29:11
Ephesians 4:26-27
Psalms 141:3