Numbers 20-21

“Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them” (20:12). God’s dealings with Israel in the wilderness were designed to teach them trust and respect for his holiness. Moses and Aaron were called to demonstrate faith and to trust God when the people complained (20:2-5; 21:4- 5). Therefore, Moses’ angry response to the Israelites (20:8-11) provoked the Lord’s discipline.

“Gather the people together and I will give them water” (21:16). God wants to use our trials – like Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness (Luke 4) – to lead us to himself, our Rock, so he can satisfy our desires.